FCT to partner Finland on smart city, waste management

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has expressed readiness to collaborate with the Republic of Finland to enhance infrastructure, agriculture and sustainable urban management in Abuja. FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this yesterday during a courtesy visit by the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria and Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Sanna Selin. The meeting underscored a mutual […]

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration has expressed readiness to collaborate with the Republic of Finland to enhance infrastructure, agriculture and sustainable urban management in Abuja.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, disclosed this yesterday during a courtesy visit by the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria and Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Sanna Selin.

The meeting underscored a mutual commitment to deepen bilateral ties and explore technical partnerships aligned with the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the current administration.

Wike highlighted Abuja’s rapid growth and ongoing efforts to transform the city through major construction projects, noting that the FCTA is keen to leverage Finland’s expertise in specialised sectors.

“As a city, we are willing to cooperate with cities in other countries to see how we can partner in infrastructure and agriculture.

“You have already indicated your willingness to support infrastructure development, smart city technology and green energy. We are very willing to partner with you in these areas,” he said.

The minister also assured the diplomatic community of improved security in the FCT, stressing the administration’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for international partners.

A key highlight of the meeting was the FCT’s interest in modernising its waste management system. Wike invited competent firms to engage with the administration in addressing the challenge.

“It would be a pleasure for us to have discussions on waste management with any firm that has the capacity to manage our waste effectively; that is very key for us,” he added.

In her response, Selin noted that relations between Nigeria and Finland have strengthened in recent months, with increased focus on trade and digital transformation.

“Finland is one of the most digitised countries in the world, and we recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nigeria on digitalisation and innovation.

“We are also very advanced in water and waste management technologies, as well as circular economy solutions,” she said.

She expressed optimism that Finland’s expertise, particularly from its capital region, could be replicated in the FCT through concrete projects, further expanding economic and technical cooperation between both parties.