By Becky Momodu
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called for strategic partnerships with Germany to strengthen agricultural development, expand information and communications technology (ICT) opportunities and promote youth skills acquisition in Abuja.
Wike made the call on Tuesday when the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Stefan Rössel, visited him at his official residence in the Life Camp District of Abuja.
The Minister said collaboration with German cities would support the FCT Administration’s efforts to accelerate development and reposition Abuja as a world-class capital capable of competing with leading global cities.
He identified agriculture, ICT and youth skills development as priority areas where German expertise and investment could support economic growth and create opportunities for residents.
Wike also reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to providing a secure and conducive environment for foreign investors, diplomatic missions and businesses operating in the territory.
He said the administration was working to improve security and infrastructure across the FCT, particularly through ongoing road construction and other urban development projects.
According to him, the vision is to transform Abuja into one of the best cities in the world by strengthening infrastructure, improving the business environment and attracting international partnerships.
Wike also defended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including efforts towards decentralisation and state policing to address insecurity.
Acknowledging the economic difficulties associated with the reforms, Wike urged Nigerians to exercise patience, arguing that the policies were intended to deliver long-term benefits.
He said difficult decisions were sometimes necessary to achieve sustainable economic growth and improve the living conditions of citizens.
Earlier, Rössel commended the longstanding diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Germany, noting that both countries had maintained bilateral ties for 66 years.
The ambassador expressed Germany’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria and the FCT Administration, particularly in areas that could promote development and improve residents’ welfare.
He said the economic reforms being implemented by the Nigerian government required time to translate into jobs, improved livelihoods and broader economic benefits.
Rössel also disclosed that the German Embassy and European Union member states were interested in working with the FCT Administration on urban planning, infrastructure development and city governance.
He reaffirmed Germany’s willingness to support Nigeria’s economic and security policy initiatives.
Abuja Times reports that the proposed partnership is expected to provide opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, technology, skills development and empowerment.
