The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, has pledged the commitment of the FCT Administration to support the construction of the Somali Chancery in Abuja.
Wike, who made the pledge when he received the Ambassador of Somalia to Nigeria, Mr Jamal Barrow, in Abuja on Thursday, promised to approve Barrow’s request for land to construct the Chancery.
He equally pleaded FCTA’s support to foreign missions with offices in the federal capital city, adding that efforts were ongoing to make foreign missions comfortable.
He also assured the cooperation of the FCT Administration with foreign missions in all development endeavours.
“We are here to make things comfortable for our guests. Whatever you think that FCT will do, do not hesitate to let us know.
“We are always willing to cooperate with our guests, particularly foreign missions.
“I assure you that after this discussion, we will immediately call for the file so that you can have your parcel of land to be able to build your own chancery,” he added.
The minister said that Nigeria and Somalia share a similar history of civil wars and acknowledged the need to share experiences, particularly on the development of countries’ respective capital cities.
Earlier, Barrow said that the visit was to seek the support and cooperation of the FCT Administration in developing the city of Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.
He explained that Somalia, having shifted from the unitary system of government to federalism, following its prolonged periods of conflicts, sees Nigeria as the best role model.
He, therefore, expressed the desire of Somalia to leverage the experience of the FCT in developing the capital of city Mogadishu and called for the support of the FCT Administration.
The ambassador also commended the FCT minister for the improved security and good leadership in the FCT.
He expressed hope that Abuja, would in the future, become one of the best capital cities in the world.
“Our President sends his congratulations to you as the Minister of the FCT and he hopes that you would one day be in Somalia in Mogadishu and he would receive you,” the envoy added.