FCTA To Partner Finland On Waste, Water Management, Urban Renewal

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has expressed readiness to partner with the Government of Finland on critical sectors including waste and water management technologies.

The Minister of the FCT, Mr Nyesom Wike made this known while receiving the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin.

Wike also expressed readiness to engage firms with capacity on urban renewal, infrastructure, and agriculture, as part of efforts to sustain the rapid development of Abuja.

Wike stressed the urgent need for efficient waste management systems in the capital city, noting that the FCTA is open to collaboration with competent international firms.

He emphasized the administration’s commitment to exploring global partnerships that will enhance sustainable city management and infrastructure development.

“If we can have a discussion on waste management with any firm that has the right capacity to manage our waste, that is very, very key for us.

“As a city, we are willing to cooperate with the cities of other countries to see how they partner in terms of infrastructure and aagriculture.We will be willing to partner with you on these areas.”

Wike further reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong bilateral ties with Finland and expressed optimism about deepening the relationship for mutual benefits.

“Finland is one of those who have good relationship with Nigeria. And we on our part will continue to make sure that we optimize that relationship for the mutual benefit of the two countries.”

He also extended an invitation for technical exchange visits to Finland to enable the FCT team understudy best practices in key development areas.
“We will be glad if we have probably an invitation to see one or two areas in Finland that will enable us to take interest for mutual development.”

The Minister assured the Finnish government of a conducive environment for investment, citing improvements in security and ongoing infrastructure expansion across Abuja.

“We owe you a duty to provide enabling environment here in terms of security for you to be able to carry out your duties…
You can agree with me that Abuja growing every day and the security has very much improved. ”

In her remarks, Ambassador Sanna Selinc ommended the FCT Administration for its efforts in ensuring safety and infrastructural growth, noting that Finland is keen on strengthening cooperation with Nigeria, particularly in Abuja.

“Abuja is important for us since we have our embassy and our residents here, and you have been taking good care of us when it comes to the security and safety and infrastructure and many other things.”

She highlighted Finland’s expertise in key sectors such as smart city development, renewable energy, and sustainable construction, expressing readiness to support Abuja’s urban growth.

The Ambassador also pointed out that Finland sees significant opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation and environmental sustainability.

According to her, Finland remains committed to enhancing trade relations with Nigeria in line with the priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“One of my major responsibilities here is to increase trade between our nations and I know this is something that is also on the agenda of the government of Nigeria and His Excellency President Tinubu.

She further revealed that both countries recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding on digitalisation and innovation, which is expected to yield concrete developmental projects.

The meeting marks a step toward strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Finland, with both parties expressing optimism about a mutually beneficial partnership that will drive sustainable development in the FCT and beyond.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji