Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, , has called on countries of the to deepen investment partnerships, boost cultural exchange, and collaborate with the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to drive growth in Abuja and Nigeria at large.
Wike made the appeal on Tuesday while addressing EU Heads of Mission at the EU House in Abuja. He emphasized the importance of sustained engagement and cooperation in advancing development within the FCT.
The meeting, chaired by , the Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and the , was attended by ambassadors from several European countries, including Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and Sweden.
In his remarks, Mignot described the EU as Nigeria’s leading trade and investment partner, setting the tone for discussions on strengthening bilateral relations.
Wike outlined the FCTA’s development priorities, highlighting Abuja’s position as a business-friendly capital with vast opportunities in sectors such as real estate, tourism, agriculture, solid minerals, and waste management. He noted that the administration is focusing on infrastructure expansion, improved transportation systems, and enhanced water supply to stimulate economic growth and social inclusion.
The minister also revealed that security has been strengthened through the construction of 12 new, fully equipped divisional police headquarters and officers’ quarters across the six area councils.
Speaking on governance, Wike said recent electoral reforms reflect Nigeria’s growing democratic maturity, pointing to increased reliance on legal and institutional mechanisms for resolving disputes. He added that the evolving political climate under President is placing greater emphasis on competence over ethnic or partisan considerations.
He further noted improved cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government, describing them as “partners in progress” in policy formulation and implementation.
On economic policy, Wike highlighted key reforms under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, including fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange unification, and tax reforms aimed at improving revenue generation. He also referenced social welfare initiatives such as conditional cash transfers, support for small businesses, and student loan schemes designed to cushion the impact of reforms on vulnerable populations.
Addressing security concerns, the minister acknowledged ongoing challenges linked to insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts, partly influenced by instability in the Sahel region. However, he stressed that the government is intensifying efforts to strengthen security architecture, improve intelligence gathering, and enhance inter-agency coordination.
Wike concluded by reaffirming the FCTA’s commitment to building strategic partnerships with the EU to promote sustainable development, stability, and prosperity in Nigeria.
