KEMI OMONIYI
ABUJA, Nigeria – Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has expressed intention to partner with the United Arab Emirates( UAE), in developing the tourism potential of the nation’s capital.
Wike, who disclosed this when he received in his office, the Ambassador of UAE to Nigeria, Salem Al-Shamsi, said Abuja has notable tourism potential that can be developed.
The Minister stated that President Bola Tinubu had already started facilitating some processes that will make Nigeria’s mutual relationship with UAE stronger.
Wike said, “we believe in the relationship that Mr President is facilitating between Nigeria and United Arab Emirates (UAE). And it is important for the city (Abuja) to consolidate on it, and we will like to partner with United Arab Emirates. We have a lot in common.
“The United Arab Emirate especially Dubai city has become a tourist centre of the world, and that we also crave for, so that Abuja should also be a tourist centre.
“Therefore, we are open to discussions, and I believe that when Mr. President is coming (visiting for the conference) , the FCT will partner be part of the delegation, so as to be able to discuss on tourism as a an economic means to both countries.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Ambassador, stated that he has always loved to partner with Nigerians on activities that will benefit both countries.
He disclosed that President has been officially invited to UAE, to attend the Convention on Climate Change (COP28) edition and hopefully it will be an opportunity to strike partnership between Nigeria and UAE.
