The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has called on European Union member states to invest in Abuja’s agriculture and real estate sectors, citing growing economic reforms, improved security and expanding infrastructure, May 5, 2026. The outreach is part of efforts to position Nigeria’s capital as a leading destination for global investment and sustainable urban development.
Speaking during a high-level briefing with EU envoys at the European Union House in Abuja, Wike said the FCT is undergoing rapid transformation into a business-friendly and high-revenue capital city. He highlighted the administration’s focus on creating an enabling environment for investors through policy reforms, infrastructure expansion and security improvements.
Wike emphasized that the territory offers vast opportunities, particularly in agriculture and housing. According to him, the FCT has about 274,000 hectares of arable land, most of it located in the six Area Councils, making it suitable for large-scale farming and agribusiness ventures. He noted that ongoing road construction projects are improving access to these areas, thereby encouraging agricultural productivity and private-sector participation.
“The FCT is open for business, and we are ready to partner with investors who want to create value,” Wike said. “We are not seeking aid but strategic partnerships where both parties benefit. Agriculture and real estate are key sectors with high returns on investment.”
In the real estate sector, Wike described Abuja as one of the fastest-growing property markets in West Africa, driven by increasing demand for residential and commercial housing. He said the administration is prepared to provide land through public-private partnerships and ensure that regulatory frameworks protect investors from fraud and legal disputes.
“The demand for housing in Abuja continues to rise, making real estate a highly attractive sector,” he said. “Our role is to provide the legal and structural support that guarantees investor confidence.”
The minister also outlined broader economic reforms that have strengthened the FCT’s financial position. He disclosed that internally generated revenue has increased significantly, rising from about N7 billion monthly in 2023 to N40 billion in 2026. This growth, he said, has enabled the administration to fund major infrastructure projects and meet financial obligations, including improved wages.
Wike attributed the economic progress to reforms in revenue collection, governance and accountability, which have enhanced efficiency and transparency. He added that the FCT now ranks among the top revenue-generating sub-national entities in Nigeria.
On infrastructure, the minister said the government is prioritizing development in satellite towns to reduce pressure on the city center and improve living conditions in rural communities. He noted that water supply projects in Karu, Orozo and Bwari are nearing completion and will be inaugurated as part of activities marking President Bola Tinubu’s third year in office.
The administration is also investing in renewable energy to improve power supply. Wike revealed that agreements signed with Chinese firms in Beijing are already being implemented, with plans to deploy alternative energy solutions across Abuja before the end of the year.
Security, he said, remains a top priority. The minister outlined a multi-layered strategy that includes deploying specialized patrol motorcycles for hard-to-reach areas and constructing roads in previously inaccessible regions used by criminal groups. These measures, he explained, are designed to improve surveillance and eliminate safe havens for bandits.
He added that security agencies—including the police, military, Department of State Services and civil defence—are being integrated into a coordinated system that enables real-time crime reporting and response. New police divisions and staff housing are also being constructed across the Area Councils to ensure a sustained security presence.
In the judicial sector, Wike said the administration is strengthening the rule of law by improving welfare for judicial officers. He disclosed that new housing facilities for judges of the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court and FCT High Court in Katampe will soon be completed and handed over to the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
The minister also commended President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly his approach to governance and appointments. According to Wike, the administration has prioritized competence and inclusiveness, creating a foundation for national growth and institutional reform.
He further highlighted improvements in Nigeria’s democratic process, noting that the adoption of electronic transmission of election results has enhanced transparency and credibility.
Earlier, the Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria. He described the EU as Nigeria’s largest trade and investment partner and said the engagement with the FCT administration would deepen cooperation.
Mignot acknowledged the visible development taking place in Abuja and commended the FCT leadership for its efforts in improving infrastructure and ensuring the safety of residents and investors.
The meeting signals growing international interest in Abuja’s development trajectory and underscores the FCT administration’s commitment to attracting foreign investment. With ongoing reforms and expanding opportunities in agriculture, real estate, energy and infrastructure, the capital city is positioning itself as a competitive destination for global partnerships and long-term economic growth.
