Wike Seeks Stronger Nigeria–Japan Partnership to Drive Abuja Development

Wike Seeks Stronger Nigeria–Japan Partnership to Drive Abuja Development

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration with Japan to boost investment and accelerate development in Abuja.

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Wike gave the assurance in Abuja while receiving the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, alongside officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The minister commended Japan’s longstanding support in the development and review of Abuja’s master plan, describing it as critical to the city’s long-term growth and sustainability.

He also expressed appreciation for Japan’s contributions to key sectors such as education, healthcare, nutrition, and other areas that directly impact the lives of Nigerians.

Wike identified agriculture and urban development as priority areas for future collaboration, noting that partnerships in these sectors would help deliver the Federal Government’s development agenda.

“We will continue to collaborate, especially in agriculture and urban development, to ensure the realisation of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

In his remarks, Ambassador Suzuki reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Nigeria’s development, describing Abuja as central to the country’s political and administrative progress.

“Development in Abuja is crucial to Nigeria’s advancement. Japan and JICA are implementing various projects in infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development,” he stated.

He highlighted ongoing initiatives, including waste management and industrial development programmes, as well as a plastic value chain project being implemented in partnership with the (UNIDO).

Also speaking, the Chief Representative of JICA in Nigeria, , outlined the agency’s interventions across water supply, electricity, healthcare, agriculture, and education in the FCT.

Keiji disclosed that JICA is supporting the review of Abuja’s 1979 master plan to align with projected growth up to 2050, with a focus on infrastructure expansion, economic development, and climate resilience.

He added that the agency is prepared to scale up infrastructure development once the revised master plan is finalised, leveraging its global experience in executing large-scale projects.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing sustainable development in Nigeria’s capital city.

Wike Seeks Stronger Nigeria–Japan Partnership to Drive Abuja Development