The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to explore a strategic partnership with Finland aimed at transforming Abuja into a modern, sustainable smart city.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, made this known on Tuesday while receiving Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja.
Wike stated that the FCTA is open to collaboration with Finland, particularly in infrastructure and agriculture, emphasizing the country’s strengths in green technology and digital innovation. He noted that such partnerships are crucial as Abuja continues to experience rapid urban growth.
“As a city, we are willing to cooperate with sister cities of other countries to see how we can partner in infrastructure and agriculture.
“We are particularly interested in smart city technology and clean energy to optimize mutual benefits," he said in a statement by the Deputy Director, Office of the Minister, Rabi Musa Umar.
The minister also expressed interest in visiting Finland to study its urban development models, with a view to applying relevant strategies to Abuja’s development.
Highlighting waste management as a priority area, Wike called for collaboration with capable Finnish firms to address the city’s waste challenges. He described effective waste management as critical to Abuja’s sustainability goals.
On security, the minister reassured the diplomatic community of the FCTA’s commitment to maintaining a safe and enabling environment. He pointed to ongoing construction activities across Abuja as evidence of improved security and stability.
Earlier, Ambassador Selin commended the FCTA for its extensive infrastructure development and efforts in ensuring the safety of diplomatic missions. She reaffirmed Finland’s readiness to support Abuja’s growth through expertise in renewable energy, urban planning, and sustainable construction.
“Finland recognizes the FCTA’s ongoing infrastructure investment and is ready to offer its expertise in areas such as planning, clean energy solutions, and sustainable construction,” she said.
The proposed partnership is expected to strengthen economic cooperation between Nigeria and Finland while supporting Abuja’s transition into a smart and sustainable city.