The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has assured Qatar that the FCT Administration will take steps to address concerns over a parcel of land allocated to the country for its embassy in Abuja.
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Wike gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving Qatar’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Mohammed Ahmed Al-Hail, in Abuja. Their discussions covered diplomatic relations, investment opportunities, urban planning and possible areas of cooperation between Abuja and Doha.
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The ambassador raised concerns over a court letter challenging Qatar’s ownership of the approximately 8,000-square-metre plot allocated for its embassy. He appealed to the FCT Administration to clarify the situation to enable Qatar to proceed with its development plans.
In response, Wike assured the ambassador that the administration would take the necessary action to address the matter. He also pledged support for Qatar’s legitimate business and investment interests in the territory.
Beyond the land issue, the minister called for stronger cooperation between Abuja and Doha, particularly in urban planning, infrastructure development and the construction of modern cities.
He commended Qatar’s investments in urban infrastructure and its experience in hosting major international events, noting that Nigeria could learn from the Gulf nation’s approach to city development.
Wike expressed the FCT Administration’s willingness to send a delegation to Qatar to study its urban planning strategies, transport systems and other development initiatives that could be adapted to Abuja.
He said effective planning and sound development concepts were essential to building modern cities, adding that the administration was ready to facilitate closer engagement between both sides.
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The minister also proposed discussions with Qatar Charity to explore opportunities for expanding its development activities in the FCT, particularly in education, healthcare, housing and community infrastructure. He said cooperation with development organisations could support ongoing efforts to improve public services and living conditions in the territory.
Earlier, Al-Hail expressed Qatar’s interest in strengthening its relationship with Nigeria, especially through investment and collaboration on Abuja’s urban development.
The ambassador proposed a formal partnership between Abuja and Doha to encourage the exchange of expertise in city planning, transport, infrastructure and investment. He said Qatar’s experience in developing modern transport networks, educational facilities and aviation infrastructure could offer useful lessons for the Nigerian capital.
He also called for discussions on a cooperation agreement between the relevant authorities in both cities and expressed readiness to review a draft proposal. He further indicated that arrangements could be advanced for a possible visit by FCT officials to Qatar.
On investment, Al-Hail noted that Qatar had introduced reforms aimed at attracting foreign investors and expanding opportunities in its property and business sectors. He said Nigerian investors could benefit from exploring these opportunities.
The ambassador also disclosed that Qatar Airways operated flights connecting Doha with Abuja and Lagos, adding that the airline planned to increase capacity to meet growing passenger demand.
He said closer diplomatic and economic ties could expand opportunities for trade, tourism, investment and exchanges between citizens of both countries.
The meeting opened discussions on resolving Qatar’s embassy land concerns while exploring a broader partnership between Abuja and Doha in urban development, investment and social infrastructure.
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