Wike vows to reclaim encroached diplomatic lands, pledges stronger EU ties

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has vowed to reclaim diplomatic lands in Abuja illegally seized by land grabbers, while pledging deeper ties with the European Union (EU) to advance governance and infrastructure.

Speaking during a visit by EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, Wike outlined aggressive recovery actions on plots allocated to European nations but overtaken over years.

“We discovered that some lands allocated to EU member countries were taken over by land grabbers. In recent weeks, we have moved to recover those lands by removing illegal structures,” he stated.

“The FCT Administration will notify affected countries to reaffirm interest and restore ownership where desired. “We are writing to those countries. If they still intend to retain the lands, we are willing to return them. We will not allow land grabbers to take advantage,” Wike affirmed.

The minister also committed to sustaining Nigeria-EU relations under President Bola Tinubu’s vision. “We will continue to relate with EU member countries in order to further strengthen the relationship between EU countries and Nigeria.”

He welcomed EU support for FCT justice reforms, including court digitalisation and promised collaboration. “I am aware of your contributions, especially in strengthening the administration and dispensation of justice. We will partner with you to advance these initiatives,” Wike noted.

Addressing EU requests for land for local staff – Nigerian taxpayers – Wike signaled readiness upon documentation submission. He updated on IBB Golf Club rehabilitation via a new caretaker committee.

Mignot positioned Nigeria as a core EU partner entering enhanced cooperation. “The European Union remains one of Nigeria’s foremost trade and development partners. Our relationship is strong and mutually beneficial, and it is now moving into a more significant phase,” he declared.

He highlighted EU-backed efforts in judicial reform, human rights, gender-based violence support, and invited Wike for talks on waste management, water, and urban development.