The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on European Union countries to deepen investment partnerships and expand cultural exchanges with Abuja to drive growth and development.

Wike made the appeal on Tuesday while addressing EU Heads of Mission at the European Union House in Abuja, where he reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to sustained collaboration with European partners.

The meeting, chaired by the Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, brought together envoys from several European countries, including France, Germany, Spain, and Sweden.

Describing the European Union as Nigeria’s foremost trade and investment partner, Mignot emphasized the importance of continued engagement between both sides.

Addressing the diplomats, Wike outlined key priorities of the FCTA, highlighting Abuja’s position as a business-friendly capital with investment opportunities in real estate, housing, tourism, agriculture, solid minerals, and waste management.

He noted that the administration’s agenda aligns with the Renewed Hope framework of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, focusing on infrastructure development, security, healthcare, education, and governance reforms.

According to the minister, significant investments have been made in expanding road networks, modernising public transport, and improving water supply to boost economic growth and social inclusion.

On security, he disclosed that the FCTA has strengthened infrastructure with the construction of 12 fully equipped divisional police headquarters and officers’ quarters across the six area councils.

Wike also spoke on Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, noting that reforms in the electoral system and increasing reliance on legal mechanisms to resolve disputes reflect growing confidence in democratic institutions.

He stressed that opposition in a developing democracy should serve as a constructive force rather than a trigger for instability.

The minister further highlighted key economic reforms under the current administration, including subsidy removal, foreign exchange unification, and tax restructuring aimed at improving revenue generation and stabilising the economy.

While acknowledging ongoing security challenges such as insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts, Wike assured that the government is intensifying efforts to strengthen security architecture, enhance inter-agency coordination, and deploy technology-driven intelligence systems.

He expressed optimism that stronger partnerships with EU countries would accelerate development and improve the overall prosperity of the FCT and Nigeria.