By Ben Adoga, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has expressed readiness to partner with the Republic of Finland on smart city development to enhance infrastructure, agriculture, and sustainable urban management in the FCT.
The FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria and Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Sanna Selin.
The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to deepen bilateral ties and explore technical partnerships aligned with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the current administration.
During the visit, Wike highlighted Abuja’s rapid growth and ongoing efforts to transform the city through extensive infrastructure projects. He emphasised that the FCTA is eager to leverage Finland’s expertise in specialised sectors to sustain the development momentum.
“As a city, we are willing to cooperate with the cities of other countries to see how we can partner in terms of infrastructure and agriculture.
“You have already mentioned your willingness to provide support in infrastructure development, smart city technology, and green energy. We are very willing to partner with you in these areas,” Wike stated.
The minister also assured the diplomatic community of improved security in the FCT, noting that the administration remains committed to providing an enabling environment for international partners.
A key highlight of the discussion was the FCT’s urgent interest in modernising its waste management systems. Recognising Finland’s global reputation for environmental technology, Wike invited specialised firms to engage with the administration.
“It would be a pleasure for us to have a discussion on waste management with any firm that has the right capacity to manage our waste; that is very, very key for us,” the minister added.
Responding, Selin said relations between the two countries had strengthened significantly in recent months, adding that increasing trade and supporting Nigeria’s digital transformation remain top priorities for the Finnish mission.
“Finland is one of the most digitised countries in the world, and we have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigeria on digitalisation and innovation.
“We are also very advanced in water and waste management technologies, as well as circular economy solutions,” the ambassador added.
She expressed optimism that expertise available in Finland’s capital region could be replicated in the FCT through concrete bilateral projects, thereby further expanding economic and technical cooperation between the two regions
