EU Delegation Woos FCTA For Stronger Development Partnership

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening its long-standing relationship with the European Union (EU), following a high-level courtesy visit by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, and his delegation.

Speaking during the meeting in Abuja, Wike expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening diplomatic and developmental ties between Nigeria and EU member states.

He emphasized the Federal Government’s readiness to sustain and elevate cooperation with the EU, in line with the vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The FCT Minister commended the EU for its continued support and interventions in Nigeria, particularly its key judicial reforms, including support for the FCT High Court system, noting that such contributions are critical to improving the administration and dispensation of justice.

Wike also addressed concerns regarding land allocations to EU member states for diplomatic purposes.

He revealed that some lands allocated as far back as 2007 had been encroached upon by illegal occupants.

He however noted that the FCT Administration has begun recovering such lands, with a view to ensuring that original allottees reclaim their lands.

On requests made by EU local staff for land allocations, Wike assured the delegation that the matter would receive due consideration upon submission of the necessary list, recognizing their contributions as taxpayers and residents.

The Minister further touched on ongoing efforts to revive key infrastructure, including the IBB Golf Club, noting that steps have been taken to rehabilitate the facility and restore its status as a hub for the diplomatic community.

Earlier, EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot who highlighted the strong and evolving partnership between Nigeria and the European Union, said the EU, comprising 27 member states and over 450 million citizens, remains one of Nigeria’s foremost trade and development partners.

Mignot further proposed enhanced collaboration in areas such as urban development, waste management, and water systems, stressing the EU’s readiness to share expertise and attract increased investment into Abuja’s growing economy.

He revealed that EU–Nigeria relations are entering a new strategic phase, following recent high-level engagements, including the EU–Nigeria Ministerial Dialogue and meetings with President Tinubu.

The Ambassador underscored several EU-funded initiatives already impacting the FCT. These include support for the justice sector through judicial training, digitalisation of court processes, and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) programme.

He also highlighted interventions in human rights protection, gender-based violence response through Sexual Assault Referral Centres, and inclusion efforts such as disability support desks across FCT institutions.

The visit concluded with both parties expressing optimism about the future of EU–Nigeria relations, particularly in transforming the FCT into a model of sustainable urban development and effective governance.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji