The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has sought development partnerships with German cities in agriculture, information and communications technology (ICT), and youth skills acquisition to support Abuja’s development.
Wike made the appeal when the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Stefan Rössel, visited him in Abuja on Tuesday.
Welcoming the ambassador, the minister highlighted the longstanding economic, cultural, and political relations between Nigeria and Germany, expressing the FCT Administration’s readiness to strengthen cooperation in key development sectors.
He said the administration was committed to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital capable of competing with major international cities, including Berlin, Munich, and Washington, DC.
Wike stated that providing a secure environment and modern infrastructure remained essential to attracting foreign investment and supporting diplomatic missions.
Reflecting on Abuja’s development, the minister said the city had faced challenges in maintaining its status as a leading capital, particularly in security and urban infrastructure.
He, however, said the current administration had made efforts to address these concerns through improved security measures and road construction.
“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.
Wike also defended the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, including proposals for decentralisation and state policing to address insecurity.
Acknowledging the economic difficulties facing Nigerians, he urged patience, arguing that structural reforms required time to produce lasting benefits.
“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,” he said.
He said that the ongoing reforms and government programmes were expected to improve living conditions across the country.
Earlier, Rössel highlighted the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Germany and Nigeria and expressed his country’s interest in expanding bilateral cooperation.
The ambassador acknowledged the infrastructure developments in Abuja and the broader economic reform agenda, noting that the impact of such measures on employment and living standards would take time to emerge.
“As a new ambassador, it is immediately visible that this country is on the move,” he said.
“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 added.
Rössel said 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 commitment to supporting Nigeria’s economic and security policy initiatives.
