By Philip Yatai
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday sought strategic development partnerships with German cities, specifically targeting agriculture, Information and Communications Technology (ICT), and youth skill acquisition
Wike made the remarks when the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Stefan Rössel, visited him in Abuja.
Welcoming the envoy, the minister highlighted the decades-long economic, cultural, and political ties between Nigeria and Germany.
He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital city capable of competing with global metropolises such as Berlin, Munich and Washington, D.C.
He said that the move was to create a conducive, secure environment for diplomatic missions and foreign investors.
Reflecting on the capital’s recent trajectory, Wike noted that prior to the current administration, Abuja had drifted from its original capital city status, particularly regarding security and urban infrastructure.
“However, under the mandate of the current administration, significant strides have been made to rewrite that narrative.
“Our vision is to see Abuja become one of the best cities in the world. With the mandate to change the narrative, security and the environment have improved, and road infrastructure is being actively delivered,” he said.
Addressing national socio-economic policies, Wike defended the ongoing reforms by President Bola Tinubu-led administration, including bold moves toward decentralisation and state policing to tackle insecurity.
Acknowledging current economic hardships, Wike asked for patience, stressing that structural reforms require time to yield lasting prosperity.
“Leadership is about taking bold decisions for long-term benefit. Things may be harsh now for a short while, but in the long run, the people will reap the benefits.
“The reforms and programmes currently underway will ultimately improve lives across the country,” he said.
Earlier, Rössel lauded the 66-year diplomatic relationship between Germany and Nigeria and voiced enthusiasm for deepening bilateral collaboration.
Commending the visible changes taking place across the territory, the envoy acknowledged both the physical development in Abuja and the broader national reform agenda.
“As a new ambassador, it is immediately visible that this country is on the move.
“These courageous reforms taken by the government require time to translate into jobs and welfare, but Germany has always supported these efforts and will continue to do so,” he said.
The envoy further indicated that the German Embassy and European Union member states remain eager to collaborate with the FCT Administration on urban planning, infrastructure development, and city governance.
“Germany will continue to support Nigeria’s current economic and security policy initiatives,” he said. (NAN)
Edited by Deji Abdulwahab
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