Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has expressed his administration’s commitment to strengthening economic and bilateral relations with the Republic of Turkey.
The minister made the declaration on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador of Turkey to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, at his office in Abuja.
Wike, while welcoming the envoy, stated that the FCT Administration was keen on partnering with Turkish cities, particularly Istanbul, to boost economic activities and provide a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
“We would like to, particularly in Istanbul, to see how we can partner with them to improve economic relations.
“I know there are a lot of Turkish nationals who are here carrying out one business or the other. It is our intention to provide a free environment where citizens, without molestation, can carry out their businesses,” he said.
Highlighting the existing cordial relationship between both nations, the minister commended the Ambassador for taking concrete steps to ease the visa application process for Nigerian businessmen, an issue, he said, had been quite worrisome.
“So now that you have said you have taken steps, we commend that. And so that also businessmen who want to go to Turkey will not find it difficult. So we are very glad for that and we continue to encourage you,” he said.
He assured the Turkish delegation of his administration’s continuous support, urging them to approach his office for any required assistance.
“We think we can partner with you. If there are things in particular you believe that you need assistance from the administration, do not hesitate to approach us,” he added.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mehmet Poroy, who has been in Nigeria for six months, described the minister as one of the first officials he sought to meet, acknowledging the Minister’s busy schedule.
“It is an honour and pleasure to meet you, Honourable Minister. As you rightly mentioned, economic aspects of our relations are maybe the most important part. Because we are very much behind the potential that two big countries have for increasing bilateral trade,” he said.
Poroy confirmed the simplification of visa procedures for Nigerian businessmen, revealing that the embassy in Abuja can now issue visas directly without having to refer every application to Ankara.
He described this as an important first step to facilitate people-to-people, businessman-to-businessman contact.
The ambassador also disclosed that plans are at an advanced stage to open a Consulate General in Lagos, a move expected to further deepen diplomatic and economic engagements.
He also took a moment to express his gratitude to the FCT Administration for the quality of services provided to the diplomatic community.
“Taking this opportunity, Honorable Minister, let me thank you also on behalf of myself as well as my colleagues who live in Abuja.
“Your services, people, institutions under your authority, are providing all the services that we enjoy,” Poroy said.
