The Minister of the Nigerian Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has expressed interest in collaborating with the Chinese government in the areas of agriculture and vocational training, with a particular focus on Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
He made this request during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, who visited him in Abuja on Tuesday.
The Minister highlighted that the FCT has fertile land suitable for Chinese investment in various agricultural ventures.
He also emphasized the need for collaboration with China in establishing vocational schools, particularly those that integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
According to him, equipping young people with vocational and ICT skills is essential for Nigeria’s progress.
“These are two key areas where I believe we can collaborate, partner, and explore opportunities together,” he stated.
“We would greatly appreciate a partnership in these fields,” he added.
The Minister noted that Abuja would mark its 50th anniversary in 2026 and emphasized the Administration’s efforts to position it among the world’s top cities.
He also highlighted the strong bilateral ties between Nigeria and China, adding that the FCT had signed Memorandums of Understanding with two Chinese companies.
He specified the companies as China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction (CGCOC) Group and China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC).
Wike explained that the agreement with CGCOC focuses on providing water to satellite towns, while the partnership with CCECC aims to install streetlights with integrated cameras to prevent vandalism.
He noted that many streetlights had been vandalized or stolen, prompting the need for a solution.
“We reached an agreement to install a type of streetlight that can be monitored from a control center to deter vandals,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Yu Dunhai, the 15th Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, praised the noticeable rapid infrastructure development in Abuja under Wike’s leadership.
He stated that China was advancing its goal of National Rejuvenation through its unique approach to modernization.
The Ambassador also acknowledged that Nigeria, under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, was pursuing a similar path through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Throughout this journey, China is proud to collaborate with Nigeria in achieving our shared development objectives,” he added.
Dunhai emphasized that Nigeria and China had reached a broad consensus to strengthen bilateral relations.
He recalled that in September 2024, both nations signed agreements during the Forum for China-Africa Cooperation in China, aimed at enhancing their partnership through a comprehensive strategic alliance.
“As the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, I reaffirm our strong commitment to these crucial bilateral ties across various sectors,” he stated.
He highlighted key areas of cooperation, including a high level of mutual political trust, strong development collaboration, extensive knowledge exchange, and significant security assistance.
“I am fully committed to implementing the important agreements reached by our leaders and look forward to working closely with the FCT Minister,” he added.
Dunhai expressed confidence that this partnership would bring substantial benefits to both FCT residents and the Chinese people.
