The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Ghana as both countries intensify efforts to resolve the ownership dispute surrounding the River Park Estate along Airport Road, Lugbe, Abuja.

The assurance was given on Thursday when the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, received the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana in Abuja to discuss recent developments involving a commercial dispute between a Ghanaian investor and his Nigerian business partner.

The meeting focused on ensuring that the multi-billion-naira property dispute does not escalate into a diplomatic issue capable of affecting the cordial relations that have existed between both countries for decades.

Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Ahmed reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Ghana and assured the Ghanaian delegation that the Federal Government would address the concerns through appropriate diplomatic and institutional channels.

He explained that although the matter appears to be commercial and legal in nature, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would carefully review the issues raised before forwarding its recommendations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for further action.

“The Ministry attaches great importance to issues affecting the welfare of citizens of friendly countries residing in Nigeria and will carefully examine the concerns presented,” Ahmed said.

He further assured the delegation that relevant government institutions would be engaged where necessary through established diplomatic channels to ensure the matter is handled responsibly.

The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law, stressing that the country remains dedicated to protecting legitimate investments while encouraging all parties to resolve their differences through peaceful dialogue and lawful procedures.

Earlier, the Acting High Commissioner of Ghana thanked the Permanent Secretary for granting the delegation an audience at short notice, describing the meeting as another reflection of the strong diplomatic ties between both countries.

She explained that Ghana considered it important to engage the Nigerian government through official diplomatic channels to prevent the commercial disagreement from creating unnecessary public tension capable of affecting bilateral relations.

The envoy expressed concern over the safety and welfare of Ghanaian nationals connected with the investment, alleging that recent developments surrounding the ownership dispute had heightened tensions.

She appealed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate engagement with relevant Nigerian authorities and urged the government to ensure the protection of lives, property and investments while legal proceedings continue.

The Acting High Commissioner maintained that Ghana remains committed to resolving the matter peacefully and in accordance with the law, expressing confidence that both countries possess the diplomatic maturity required to prevent the dispute from affecting broader cooperation.

Responding, Ambassador Ahmed assured the delegation that Nigeria values its historic relationship with Ghana and remains committed to maintaining an environment that encourages investment, protects foreign nationals and promotes mutual trust among partner nations.

He added that the Ministry would continue working closely with the Ghana High Commission and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the dispute is managed in a manner that safeguards the interests of all parties without undermining the enduring friendship between Nigeria and Ghana.

The ownership dispute over River Park Estate has attracted significant public attention in recent months, with both governments now emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy and legal processes as the appropriate path toward a lasting resolution.

The post FG Moves to Preserve Nigeria-Ghana Ties Over River Park Estate Dispute appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has confirmed his redeployment as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa.

Fani-Kayode disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X account, explaining that President Bola Tinubu approved his redeployment from Germany to South Africa following a personal request.

His reassignment comes amid renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, which have sparked diplomatic concerns and reactions from Nigerian authorities.

According to Fani-Kayode, he requested the redeployment shortly after his initial posting to Germany was announced, citing personal reasons and his preference to serve in South Africa.

“I made a formal representation to the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, that I was not comfortable with Germany for a number of personal reasons and given the fact that I had lived in Europe most of my life, I would prefer to go to South Africa,” he stated.

He explained that his interest in South Africa was influenced by what he described as shared political values, stronger African ties, and the country’s strategic importance on the continent.

“I therefore made an application for a redeployment to South Africa two days after the initial announcement was made, and I am pleased to say that after the then Foreign Minister heard my reasons, he considered them favourably after which he conveyed the request to Mr. President, who graciously approved it,” he added.

Fani-Kayode also dismissed reports claiming that Germany rejected him as Nigeria’s envoy, describing the reports as false and defamatory.

He revealed that he had instructed his lawyers to begin legal action against those responsible for circulating the claims.

The confirmation comes at a sensitive time in Nigeria-South Africa relations following recent attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had recently held discussions with South African authorities over the safety of Nigerians and possible evacuation measures for citizens willing to return home.

“I maintained that our Government cannot stand by and watch the systematic harassment and humiliation of our nationals resident in South Africa as well as the extra-judicial killings of our people,” the minister had stated after the diplomatic engagement.

Despite addressing the controversy surrounding his redeployment, Fani-Kayode did not directly outline specific diplomatic strategies he intends to pursue regarding the xenophobic attacks.

Fani-Kayode previously served as Special Assistant on Public Affairs to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and later became Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the presidency.

He also served as Minister of Culture and Tourism before his appointment as Minister of Aviation in 2006.

His new diplomatic role places him at the centre of one of Nigeria’s most important and sensitive foreign relationships in Africa.

The post Fani-Kayode Confirmed as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has confirmed his redeployment as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa.

Fani-Kayode disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X account, explaining that President Bola Tinubu approved his redeployment from Germany to South Africa following a personal request.

His reassignment comes amid renewed xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, which have sparked diplomatic concerns and reactions from Nigerian authorities.

According to Fani-Kayode, he requested the redeployment shortly after his initial posting to Germany was announced, citing personal reasons and his preference to serve in South Africa.

“I made a formal representation to the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, that I was not comfortable with Germany for a number of personal reasons and given the fact that I had lived in Europe most of my life, I would prefer to go to South Africa,” he stated.

He explained that his interest in South Africa was influenced by what he described as shared political values, stronger African ties, and the country’s strategic importance on the continent.

“I therefore made an application for a redeployment to South Africa two days after the initial announcement was made, and I am pleased to say that after the then Foreign Minister heard my reasons, he considered them favourably after which he conveyed the request to Mr. President, who graciously approved it,” he added.

Fani-Kayode also dismissed reports claiming that Germany rejected him as Nigeria’s envoy, describing the reports as false and defamatory.

He revealed that he had instructed his lawyers to begin legal action against those responsible for circulating the claims.

The confirmation comes at a sensitive time in Nigeria-South Africa relations following recent attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, had recently held discussions with South African authorities over the safety of Nigerians and possible evacuation measures for citizens willing to return home.

“I maintained that our Government cannot stand by and watch the systematic harassment and humiliation of our nationals resident in South Africa as well as the extra-judicial killings of our people,” the minister had stated after the diplomatic engagement.

Despite addressing the controversy surrounding his redeployment, Fani-Kayode did not directly outline specific diplomatic strategies he intends to pursue regarding the xenophobic attacks.

Fani-Kayode previously served as Special Assistant on Public Affairs to former President Olusegun Obasanjo and later became Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the presidency.

He also served as Minister of Culture and Tourism before his appointment as Minister of Aviation in 2006.

His new diplomatic role places him at the centre of one of Nigeria’s most important and sensitive foreign relationships in Africa.

The post Fani-Kayode Confirmed as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has announced that President Bola Tinubu has approved the allocation of land in Abuja to ambassadors and high commissioners-designate, in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic infrastructure and attracting foreign investment.

Wike disclosed this during a courtesy visit by the envoys led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, in Abuja. He said the initiative aligns with the administration’s broader economic diplomacy strategy designed to reposition Nigeria as a more attractive destination for global capital.

According to the minister, the land allocation is intended to enhance the operational presence of foreign missions while deepening bilateral relations between Nigeria and their respective countries.

He stressed that diplomats play a central role in shaping Nigeria’s global perception and must actively support efforts to attract investment.

“You are the mirror of this country. The way the world sees you is the way it will see Nigeria,” Wike said.

He added that President Tinubu’s international engagements are focused on securing investment inflows, but embassies and high commissions must reinforce those efforts through consistent engagement with investors and policymakers abroad.

Wike also dismissed concerns about Nigeria’s democratic structure, insisting that the country remains firmly a multi-party democracy.

“There is no plan to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. You must communicate this clearly wherever you serve,” he added.

FCT Targets Investment Expansion Through Infrastructure and Diplomacy

The minister highlighted ongoing infrastructure development across Abuja’s area councils, noting that the administration is working to position the capital as a globally competitive city.

He urged foreign envoys to support investment drives in sectors such as agriculture, waste management, and urban development, pointing to underutilised land in areas like Gwagwalada and Kwali.

According to him, these areas present significant opportunities for large-scale agricultural investment and sustainable development projects.

“There is enormous agricultural potential in areas like Gwagwalada and Kwali, but investment is still limited. We need your support to attract investors and unlock these opportunities,” he said.

Wike further revealed that the FCT Administration is pursuing strategic partnerships with countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt, as well as the European Commission, to strengthen infrastructure development and international cooperation.

Foreign Affairs Ministry Emphasises Diplomatic Role in National Development

Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Ahmed, described the visit as part of an induction programme for ambassadors and high commissioners-designate.

He said the programme was designed to familiarise envoys with Abuja’s strategic importance as Nigeria’s administrative and diplomatic hub.

Ahmed noted that Abuja plays a critical role in shaping international perceptions of Nigeria and commended ongoing infrastructure upgrades within the FCT.

He also called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the FCT Administration to promote Abuja as a hub for investment, tourism, and international partnerships.

Policy Direction and Economic Outlook

The engagement reflects the federal government’s ongoing push to integrate diplomacy with economic development goals. By linking foreign missions more directly with investment promotion, the administration aims to strengthen capital inflows and improve Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

Officials believe that improved diplomatic infrastructure, combined with targeted urban development, will enhance investor confidence and support long-term economic growth.

The post Tinubu Approves Abuja Land for Foreign Envoys as Wike Pushes Investment Drive appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu left Abuja today for a landmark trip to the United Kingdom. Accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, the visit goes beyond ceremonial duties. It focuses on trade, investment, and strategic agreements, which are expected to strengthen Nigeria’s economic ties with Britain. The delegation will arrive in London for official meetings and cultural engagements.

First Lady Joins President on Historic Trip

King Charles III and Queen Camilla officially received the Nigerian leaders at Windsor Castle. This visit marks the first full state visit by a Nigerian president in decades. In addition, Tinubu is the first to meet a reigning British monarch at Windsor Castle during a formal reception. While the trip carries historic symbolism, it also serves a strong economic and diplomatic purpose.

Trade and Investment Take Centre Stage

During the visit, President Tinubu will hold high-level talks, including a meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. During these discussions, both leaders will sign agreements on trade, defence, cultural cooperation, and investment. In particular, UK Export Finance, the Nigerian Ports Authority, and the Federal Ministry of Finance will provide £746 million to rehabilitate Lagos Port Complex in Apapa and Tin Can Island Port. This funding will directly increase Nigeria’s trade capacity.

Furthermore, Nigeria’s economic reforms have attracted global attention. Officials emphasize that the visit reflects rising investor confidence and a more positive perception of the country’s business environment. Trade between the UK and Nigeria reached £8.1 billion as of September 2025, highlighting the UK’s importance as a key economic partner.

Symbolic Ceremonial Engagements

In addition to economic diplomacy, the leaders will participate in formal ceremonial activities. At Windsor Castle, President Tinubu and the First Lady will attend a ceremonial welcome, inspect the guard of honour, and join a carriage procession with the British monarch. They will witness a 21-gun salute, enjoy a state banquet, and explore an exhibition from the Royal Collection highlighting Nigeria-related artefacts.

Meanwhile, in Westminster, President Tinubu will personally lay a wreath at the Cenotaph to honour fallen servicemen. He will also meet business leaders, members of the Nigerian diaspora, and attend the Nigerian Modernism exhibition as guest of honour. These events strengthen both cultural and commercial ties.

Visit Schedule Highlights

Tuesday – Windsor Castle
The Nigerian leaders will meet Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales. After a ceremonial reception and guard of honour inspection, they will take part in a carriage procession to Windsor Castle. At the castle, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will host them. A 21-gun salute will follow, along with a state luncheon and bilateral meetings on trade, security, migration, and port development. The day concludes with a cultural programme and a state banquet.

Wednesday – London
The day begins with a private breakfast with King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The delegation will then travel to Westminster for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph. Following this, President Tinubu meets UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer for bilateral talks and a working lunch. Later, he engages with members of the Nigerian diaspora and signs bilateral agreements at Buckingham Palace. Finally, the delegation departs from RAF Northolt for Nigeria.

Strategic Diplomatic Impact

Overall, the Tinubu UK state visit combines ceremonial grandeur with clear economic and diplomatic goals. It emphasizes Nigeria’s growing influence globally and strengthens relations with one of its most important international partners. In particular, the agreements and engagements from this visit are expected to create lasting benefits for trade, infrastructure, and cultural exchange between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

The post Tinubu and Wife Lead Historic Nigeria–UK State Visit appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Gumi Urges Nigeria to Cut Ties with US Over Trump’s Military Threa

Islamic cleric Sheikh Ahmad Gumi has called on President Bola Tinubu to take firm diplomatic action against former United States President Donald Trump following his alleged threat of military intervention in Nigeria.

In a statement shared via his verified Facebook page on Sunday, Gumi condemned Trump’s remarks as an affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty, urging the federal government to issue a strong response.

“For Trump to threaten a sovereign country with military attack is a profound disrespect to our authority, but we can rise above it,” he wrote.

The cleric advised the Tinubu administration to summon the U.S. ambassador to demand an official retraction, warning that failure to do so should result in cutting diplomatic ties with Washington.

“President Tinubu should summon the U.S. ambassador; they either retract their threats or we sever diplomatic ties with this irresponsible regime,” Gumi stated.

He further stressed the need for Nigeria to explore alternative economic and military partnerships, saying the country should not rely solely on the United States for strategic cooperation.

“There are lots of other options for our economic expansion and military alliance,” he added.

Gumi’s comments come amid growing diplomatic tension following Trump’s alleged comments on Nigeria’s internal affairs, which many political observers have described as inflammatory and undiplomatic.

The post Gumi Urges Nigeria to Cut Ties with US Over Trump’s Military Threat appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

By Ameh Gabriel

Nigeria’s leading foreign policy voices have cautioned that the country risks losing sovereignty, security, and global relevance unless it urgently embraces cyber and digital diplomacy.

Speaking at a High-Level Seminar on Anticipatory, Cyber and Digital Diplomacy held Tuesday in Abuja, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Prince Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi, SAN, and international relations expert, Dr. Nnenna Ifeanyi-Ajufo, emphasized that Nigeria must act swiftly to shape the emerging global digital order.

Ambassador Tuggar described disruptive technologies, militarization of cyberspace, and shifting geopolitics as forces “fundamentally rewriting diplomacy.” Nigeria, he said, cannot afford to be a bystander.

“We must act with purpose to position ourselves as a principled, capable, and forward-looking actor in the evolving global digital order,” Tuggar declared.

The Minister announced the establishment of a Cyber Diplomacy Unit within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to coordinate Nigeria’s cyber-related foreign policy. He also unveiled a Masterclass Series on Cyber and Digital Diplomacy to train diplomats across Africa and the Global South, calling it Nigeria’s “digital gift to the world.”

Highlighting risks already affecting Nigeria—including crypto-driven crimes, online disinformation, and weak digital regulation—Tuggar stressed that cyber diplomacy must “help systems catch up” to promote growth, stability, and freedom.

Attorney General Fagbemi echoed the urgency, arguing that traditional diplomacy is inadequate in today’s interconnected world.

“The rise of a globally interconnected digital landscape presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges, rendering traditional diplomatic methods insufficient,” he said.

He urged Nigeria to adopt anticipatory diplomacy detecting threats before they escalate—backed by strong legal frameworks for artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and ethical technology use.

International relations expert Dr. Nnenna Ifeanyi-Ajufo sharpened the warning, insisting that sovereignty and power are now being contested in data centers, digital platforms, and artificial intelligence, not on battlefields.

“Influence is being forged in cyberspace. Nations that will thrive in the 21st century are those that adapt swiftly, think ahead, and engage globally. Nigeria must not be left behind,” she said.

Dr. Nnenna outlined a six-point action plan for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, including:

Establishing a Directorate of Future Diplomacy,

Developing a national cyber strategy,

Building regional and global partnerships,

Creating a Foreign Policy AI Lab,

Training diplomats in AI ethics and digital literacy, and

Reforming diplomatic curricula to integrate foresight and technology policy.

She concluded: “The future is being written now in algorithms, cyber norms, and digital platforms. Nigeria’s influence depends on its innovation. Our resilience depends on our readiness.”

The seminar drew participation from National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery, African Union cybersecurity experts, and other diplomats. The gathering underscored a consensus: Nigeria’s survival and leadership in the 21st century will depend not on oil or military power, but on its ability to anticipate, secure, and dominate the digital frontier.

The post Nigeria Risks Sovereignty Without Urgent Shift to Cyber Diplomacy, Experts Warn appeared first on Housing TV Africa.

Following President Boakai’s brief remarks at the event, Trump turned to the visiting leader and asked, “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully? Where were you educated?” The American president added, “Thank you, and such good English.”

President Boakai, a fluent English speaker and business graduate educated in Liberia, responded modestly, though his subdued tone and body language his face turned away from the press, suggested discomfort at the question.

Trump, seated among several Francophone West African leaders, continued with the commentary, remarking, “It’s beautiful English. I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”

Liberia, a country with deep historical ties to the United States, was founded in the 19th century by freed African Americans under the auspices of the American Colonization Society. Declaring independence in 1847, these settlers known as Americo-Liberians established a government that would dominate national politics for over a century.

Today, English remains the official language of Liberia and is used in government, education, and commerce. The nation is also home to a multitude of indigenous languages, including Kpelle the most widely spoken along with Mende and Kissi. President Boakai himself is literate in both Mende and Kissi, though he, like most Liberians, primarily communicates in English.

The exchange underscored cultural gaps and drew quiet criticism for its tone, highlighting the need for greater awareness in international diplomacy.

The post Liberian President Receives Praise from Trump for English Fluency appeared first on Housing TV Africa.