Diplomatic Storm Brews: Russia, Ghana Among 34 Embassies Face Eviction Threat in Nigeria Over Unpaid Ground Rent

Reporting by iNewsAfrica Bureau, Abuja

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The Nigerian government has issued eviction threats to 34 foreign embassies, including those of Russia, Ghana, Germany, and China, over unpaid ground rents in Abuja dating back to 2014. The move has sparked diplomatic concerns and legal debate about sovereignty and international protocol.

• 34 embassies risk closure for unpaid rent totaling ₦3.66 million

• Nations affected include Russia, Ghana, Turkey, Germany, China, Zambia, and Venezuela

• Nigeria’s 14-day grace period expired June 9

• Diplomatic immunity under Vienna Convention complicates enforcement

• Some embassies deny owing, claim lack of formal notice

ABUJA— Tensions are rising between Nigeria and the international diplomatic community as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has named and threatened 34 embassies with eviction over unpaid ground rents. Among those listed are major diplomatic missions such as Russia, Ghana, Turkey, Germany, and China.

According to official records, the embassies collectively owe approximately ₦3.66 million (about $7,900), with arrears dating as far back as 2014. Nigerian officials claim that multiple notices have gone unanswered, prompting FCT Minister Nyesom Wike to initiate enforcement action earlier this month.

The situation escalated when President Bola Tinubu stepped in to issue a 14-day grace period, which officially expired on Monday, June 9, 2025. With no significant payments reported, authorities are now considering next steps — including possible property revocation.

However, the enforcement faces major legal and diplomatic hurdles. Under Article 22 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), diplomatic properties are considered inviolable and cannot be entered or seized by host countries.

Diplomatic representatives from some embassies, including Russia, Germany, and Ghana, have pushed back, stating they were either unaware of any arrears or had not received formal notices from Nigerian authorities.

Legal experts warn that any attempt by Nigeria to enforce closures could breach international law and provoke diplomatic backlash.

As Abuja navigates this diplomatic landmine, observers are urging dialogue and discretion. “It’s in Nigeria’s interest to resolve this amicably,” said international law expert Dr. Zainab Waziri. “Aggressive action against foreign embassies can harm diplomatic relationships and investment confidence.”

The FCTA has not yet announced its final course of action.

Reporting by iNewsAfrica Bureau, Abuja