Wike seeks stronger Japan partnership to transform FCT

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The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has called for closer collaboration with Japan to accelerate the development of the FCT, highlighting areas such as urban planning, education, and agriculture.

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Speaking on Tuesday at his official residence in Abuja, Wike welcomed the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, and representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency.

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“I want to sincerely commend you for having confidence in the government of Nigeria and, in particular, the Federal Capital Territory.

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“You have contributed to education, health, nutrition, and other critical sectors that directly impact our people,” Wike said.

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He praised Japan’s role in updating the Abuja Master Plan, describing it as vital for sustainable growth.

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“You have been working closely with the FCDA on the Abuja Master Plan. That is very key for us. We will continue to cooperate with you to ensure that this is actualised,” the minister added.

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Wike also acknowledged Japan’s support for Nigeria’s education sector, noting the teacher training programs conducted in Tokyo.

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“We have seen the support in education, including the training of our teachers in Tokyo. This is very important to improving our education sector,” he said.

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He further identified agriculture and urban development as key sectors for future cooperation, promising that the FCT Administration would ensure an enabling environment.

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“We will partner with you, particularly in agriculture and city development, to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President becomes a reality,” the minister stated.

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Amb. Suzuki reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Nigerian development.

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“The development of Abuja is crucial for driving Nigeria’s progress. Japan and JICA have been implementing various projects in infrastructure, healthcare, and economic development,” he said.

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He also revealed new initiatives, including a plastics value chain project with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and improvements to waste management and industrial development in the capital.

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The Chief Representative of JICA Nigeria, Ishigame Keiji, outlined the agency’s ongoing work in water, power, health, agriculture, and education.

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He revealed that JICA is supporting the review of Abuja’s 1979 Master Plan to align with development needs up to 2050, with emphasis on infrastructure expansion, economic growth, and climate resilience.

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JICA has been actively involved in supporting Nigeria’s development across multiple sectors. In education, JICA collaborates with the Universal Basic Education Commission to improve teaching quality in mathematics and science and to enhance school facilities, including through grant‑assisted projects that upgrade classrooms and learning environments in several states, including the FCT.

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In urban planning, JICA is providing technical cooperation on the review and upgrading of the Abuja Master Plan, a long‑term initiative to modernise infrastructure, guide sustainable growth, and enhance the capital’s capacity to meet future demographic and economic needs.

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