Turkey Strengthens Diplomatic, Economic Ties with FCTA as Amb.Poroy Visit Wike

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Monday received the Ambassador of the Republic of Turkey to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, in Abuja, marking a renewed commitment to deepen diplomatic and economic cooperation between both countries.

Ambassador Poroy, who arrived in Nigeria nearly six months ago, said although he is yet to formally present his credentials, he considered it important to pay an early courtesy visit to the FCT Minister.

Accompanied by the Turkish Embassy Secretary, Hakan Tok, the envoy expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality he and his team have enjoyed since arriving in Abuja.

“It is an honour and pleasure to meet you, Honourable Minister,” Poroy stated. “Nigeria and Turkey share a long-standing cordial relationship, and we believe there is great potential to expand our economic cooperation.”

The Turkish Ambassador highlighted new measures introduced by Ankara to ease travel for Nigerian businesspersons, noting that visa processing has now been simplified at the embassy in Abuja without requiring clearance from Turkey.

He added that plans are underway to open a Turkish Consulate General in Lagos to further boost commercial and diplomatic engagement.

Responding, Minister Wike commended the Turkish government for streamlining visa procedures, describing the move as a major relief for residents of the FCT and Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in Turkey.

Wike reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment, stressing that the FCT Administration is willing to collaborate with Turkish authorities, particularly in Istanbul, to explore mutually beneficial economic opportunities.

“We want to improve our economic ties. There are many Turkish nationals here doing business, and it is our intention to provide a safe and conducive environment for them,” Wike said. “If there are areas where you need the support of the FCT Administration, do not hesitate to approach us.”

Ambassador Poroy also expressed appreciation to the FCT Administration for maintaining an environment that allows diplomats and residents to enjoy seamless services, saying he looks forward to “fruitful years” of service in Nigeria.

The visit marks another step in reinforcing the growing partnership between Nigeria and Turkey, with both sides expressing strong optimism for expanded trade, investment, and diplomatic cooperation for Nigerian businesspersons, noting that visa processing has now been simplified at the embassy in Abuja without requiring clearance from Turkey.

He added that plans are underway to open a Turkish Consulate General in Lagos to further boost commercial and diplomatic engagement.

Responding, Minister Wike commended the Turkish government for streamlining visa procedures, describing the move as a major relief for residents of the FCT and Nigerian entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in Turkey.

Wike reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment, stressing that the FCT Administration is willing to collaborate with Turkish authorities, particularly in Istanbul, to explore mutually beneficial economic opportunities.

“We want to improve our economic ties. There are many Turkish nationals here doing business, and it is our intention to provide a safe and conducive environment for them,” Wike said. “If there are areas where you need the support of the FCT Administration, do not hesitate to approach us.”

Ambassador Poroy also expressed appreciation to the FCT Administration for maintaining an environment that allows diplomats and residents to enjoy seamless services, saying he looks forward to “fruitful years” of service in Nigeria.

The visit marks another step in reinforcing the growing partnership between Nigeria and Turkey, with both sides expressing strong optimism for expanded trade, investment, and diplomatic cooperation.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji