Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed plans to deepen collaboration with the Japanese government to accelerate infrastructure and urban development in Abuja.
Wike gave the assurance in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Japan’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo, alongside officials of the Japan International Cooperation Agency. He commended Japan’s longstanding contributions, particularly its role in the development and ongoing review of the Abuja Master Plan.
“I want to sincerely commend you for having confidence in the government of Nigeria and in particular the Federal Capital Territory,” Wike said. “You have contributed to education, health, nutrition and other critical sectors that impact directly on our people. 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 also highlighted Japan’s support for Nigeria’s education sector, including teacher training programmes in Tokyo. “We have seen the support in education, including training of our teachers in Tokyo. This is very important to improving our education sector,” he added, noting that agriculture and urban development remain priority areas for future collaboration. “We will partner with you, particularly in agriculture and city development, to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President becomes a reality.”
Responding, Ambassador Hideo reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Nigeria’s growth, stressing the strategic importance of Abuja. “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, adding that new initiatives in waste management and industrial development are underway in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization.
Also speaking, JICA’s Chief Representative in Nigeria, Ishigame Keiji, disclosed that the agency is supporting the review of Abuja’s 1979 Master Plan to align with development needs up to 2050. He said the update will focus on infrastructure expansion, economic growth, and climate resilience, while positioning the FCT for large-scale investments backed by Japan’s global expertise.
