FCT targets EU capital as Wike highlights reforms, infrastructure expansion, and security upgrades
By Baron Eloagu | Abuja, Nigeria | May 5, 2026
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on European Union member states to deepen investment in Abuja, particularly in agriculture and real estate, as part of efforts to strengthen economic cooperation and development in the territory.
He made the appeal on Tuesday during a briefing at the EU House in Abuja while addressing envoys from EU countries.
Wike described the FCT as a rapidly evolving, business-friendly capital with expanding infrastructure, improved security systems, and rising investor confidence.
He emphasized that Abuja offers significant opportunities in both agriculture and real estate, backed by government reforms and strategic infrastructure expansion.
According to him, the FCT has approximately 274,000 hectares of arable land, particularly across its Area Councils, presenting vast potential for commercial agriculture and agro-investment.
Real Estate Sector Opens for Foreign Investment
The minister noted that the real estate sector in Abuja is experiencing strong demand for residential and commercial developments.
He stated that the administration is actively encouraging public-private partnerships (PPPs) to unlock land for large-scale housing projects.
Wike assured potential investors of legal protections, regulatory clarity, and government-backed security for investments in the territory.
Economic and Structural Reforms
The FCT minister highlighted ongoing reforms in security, revenue generation, and governance, which he said have improved investor confidence and economic performance.
He disclosed that Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown significantly—from ₦7 billion monthly in 2023 to ₦40 billion monthly in 2026, positioning the FCT as one of Nigeria’s strongest sub-national revenue performers after Lagos State.
He attributed the growth to improved tax systems, stricter enforcement, and expanded economic activity.
Infrastructure and Rural Development Push
Wike said the administration is prioritising development in satellite towns under the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” shifting focus beyond the city centre.
Projects include road construction, water supply systems in Karu, Orozo, and Bwari, and expansion of infrastructure in rural communities.
He also revealed ongoing renewable energy partnerships, including agreements with Chinese firms to improve electricity supply in Abuja.
Security and Institutional Reforms
On security, the minister outlined a multi-layered strategy involving joint operations by the police, military, DSS, and civil defence agencies.
He also disclosed the construction of new police divisions and staff housing across all six Area Councils to ensure permanent security presence.
According to him, these interventions are aimed at eliminating criminal hideouts and improving response times to security threats.
EU Reacts, Reaffirms Partnership
Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, described the EU as Nigeria’s leading trade and investment partner.
He said the engagement with the FCT administration would strengthen existing cooperation and deepen development partnerships in key sectors.
Wike’s outreach to European investors signals a broader push by the FCT Administration to attract foreign capital into critical sectors while reinforcing reforms in infrastructure, security, and economic governance.
The move is expected to further position Abuja as a competitive investment destination in West Africa
![Nigerian military prepares to cordon the area where a man was killed by suspected rebel fighters during an attack around the Polo area of Maiduguri, Nigeria, in 2019 [File: Afolabi Sotunde/Reuters]](https://a1news.com.ng/wp/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Nigeria-military-on-patrol.webp)
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