The Federal Government has warned the 36 state governments against entering foreign or international negotiations without the input of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador YUSUF TUGGAR made this known in a statement in Abuja amid a dispute between the Ogun State Government and a Chinese company, which has led to the seizure of three Nigerian presidential jets.

The dispute reportedly stemmed from a 2007 agreement for the development of a free trade zone, which later fell apart, leading to arbitration and, ultimately, the seizure of the jets.

 TUGGARemphasised the importance of registering international arrangements with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Embassy, and Federal Government to avoid similar issues in the future.

He stressed that foreign negotiations require experienced individuals with the necessary skills and training, and sub-national actors should not engage in such agreements alone.