WIKE SEEKS CHINESE PARTNERSHIP FOR FCT DEVELOPMENT, SHOWCASES TRACK RECORD OF ACHIEVEMENTS FROM RIVERS TO ABUJA

 

Abuja, Nigeria – Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike has intensified his drive for transformational development, seeking Chinese collaboration in agriculture and ICT-based vocational training during a meeting with China's Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, in Abuja on Tuesday.

The minister highlighted Abuja's vast agricultural potential and need for technical education, while drawing from his proven governance record that span from Rivers State to the nation's capital.

Strategic Sino-Nigeria Partnership

Wike proposed three key areas for cooperation:

Large-scale agricultural investments utilizing FCT's arable lands.

Vocational training institutes with ICT specialization for youth empowerment.

Smart city infrastructure through existing Chinese partnerships.

The FCT has already signed MoUs with:

China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC): Water provision for satellite towns.

China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC): Installation of anti-vandalism smart streetlights with surveillance cameras.

"These partnerships will help us combat infrastructure vandalism while developing our human capital," Wike stated, noting Abuja's 2026 golden jubilee preparations.

Wike is no doubt President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's best performing Minister. He is focused and sagacious. 

From Rivers to Abuja: Wike's Legacy of Delivery

As Rivers State Governor (2015-2023):

Infrastructure Revolution: Delivered over 1,000km of roads, 12 flyovers, and the landmark Port Harcourt Pleasure Park.

Healthcare Transformation: Built/renovated 105 health centers and the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital.

Educational Reforms: Established the first state-owned Nigerian Law School campus.

Security Architecture: Created the Rivers State Neighbourhood Safety Corps.

Economic Boom: Attracted $10bn in investments through improved ease of doing business.

As FCT Minister (2023-Present):

Financial Autonomy: Secured FCT's removal from Treasury Single Account for faster project execution.

Road Infrastructure: Accelerated completion of arterial roads including Outer Southern Expressway.

Urban Renewal: Enforcement of Abuja Master Plan through removal of illegal structures.

Revenue Growth: Increased IGR by 300% through enhanced collection systems.

Security Upgrade: Installation of 10,000 CCTV-enabled streetlights across the city.

Ambassador Yu commended Wike's development-focused leadership, stating: "China is ready to deepen cooperation with the FCT in mutually beneficial areas."