The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the European Union while initiating steps to reclaim diplomatic lands in Abuja allegedly taken over by illegal occupants.
Wike made this known on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, where both sides highlighted the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation.
The minister said the Federal Government would continue to engage EU member states to build on existing relationships in line with the vision of President Bola Tinubu.
“We will continue to relate with EU member countries in order to further strengthen the relationship between EU countries and Nigeria,” he said.
On land administration in the FCT, Wike disclosed that some plots originally allocated to European countries for diplomatic purposes had been encroached upon by land grabbers. He noted that the administration had already begun reclaiming such properties.
“We discovered that some lands allocated to EU member countries were taken over by illegal occupants. In recent weeks, we have moved to recover those lands by removing unlawful structures,” he stated.
He added that the FCT Administration would formally reach out to the affected countries to confirm their continued interest in the properties, with a view to restoring ownership where applicable.
“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 said.
The minister also commended the EU for its support in Nigeria, particularly in advancing justice sector reforms within the FCT, including efforts to digitise court processes and improve access to justice.
“I am aware of your contributions, especially in strengthening the administration and dispensation of justice. We will partner with you to advance these initiatives,” he added.
Responding to a request by the EU delegation for land allocation for its local staff, Wike expressed readiness to consider the applications once proper documentation is submitted, noting that beneficiaries, as Nigerian taxpayers, deserve fair treatment.
He also addressed concerns about the IBB Golf Club, revealing that a caretaker committee had been set up and that rehabilitation of the facility would commence soon.
In his remarks, Mignot described Nigeria as a key strategic partner of the EU, noting that relations between both sides were entering a new phase.
“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 said.
He highlighted EU-backed initiatives in the FCT, including programmes focused on judicial reform, human rights protection, digitalisation of the justice system, and support for victims of gender-based violence.
Mignot also invited the minister to engage further with EU member states’ ambassadors to explore collaboration in critical sectors such as waste management, water systems, and urban development.
The meeting underscored growing alignment between Nigeria and the EU, with both parties expressing readiness to expand cooperation across governance, infrastructure, and institutional development.