By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike has expressed readiness and that of the FCT Administration, FCTA, to partner with the State of Qatar on the development of tourism and improve security in the nation’s capital.
Wike disclosed this on Monday when the Qatari Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Ali bin Ghanem Al-Hajri, paid a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
The FCT Minister stated that FCT was open to cooperation that will be mutually beneficial to both countries, especially in the areas of tourism development and security, which are top priorities in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said, “I will be happy if we can have a relationship, particularly as it relates to tourism. We have a lot of potentials here that we can explore in terms of tourism with Qatar. So, it will be in our interest if you can explore this.”
“We are willing to give out land for the building of a tourist center. The way it is now, we are willing to see how we can partner with people outside (Nigeria) to fully complete the Millennium Centre, which is the main tourist center in Abuja.”
Wike congratulated Qatar on the successful hosting of the Men’s World Cup Tournament, adding their level of commitment made it possible.
He further noted that Qatar’s international influence is due to the country’s economic potential and development.
The minister also disclosed that the FCT has recorded appreciable achievements in terms of security and the provision of infrastructure as a result of the efforts of President Tinubu to change the narrative in the country.
He also pledged the commitment of the FCT Administration to continue to provide support to all foreign missions in the nation’s capital.
He said, “You will agree with us that in the past few years, it wasn’t that good. But things are moving on. We are ready to cooperate with you in terms of security. It’s very key. Yes, there was a time when it did appear that we had some security issues. But as it is today, there is a lot of difference.”
“Security is one of the eight-point priorities of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. So, we can assure you that we will make it very convenient for all our friends who reside and carry out business in Abuja.”
The Qatari Ambassador to Nigeria, Al-Hajri said Abuja is one of the biggest capital cities in Africa with investment potential and that Qatar is ready to increase bilateral relations with Nigeria, in the areas of investments in the tourism, education, and health sectors in the FCT.
