The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, has extended a warm invitation to Indian investors, seeking substantial investments to expedite the development of the capital territory, Abuja.
During a visit by the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Shri Balasubramanian, in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike emphasized the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships between India and Nigeria, particularly in Abuja’s burgeoning economic landscape.
Acknowledging the significant presence of Indian companies in Nigeria, particularly in sectors such as petrochemicals and fertilizers, Wike underscored the need for a similar collaborative relationship in Abuja.
“We would also like to have this kind of relationship in Abuja. You have seen improvement in security; you have seen improvement in infrastructure in Abuja. That is part of the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda of President Bola Tinubu,” stated Wike, highlighting the progress made under the current administration’s development initiatives.
Wike further emphasized the FCT Administration’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for diplomatic missions, ensuring they can effectively carry out their mandates within Nigeria.
In response, Balasubramanian highlighted the longstanding and robust relationship between India and Nigeria, dating back to India’s pre-independence era in 1958 when diplomatic ties were established. He noted the substantial presence of over 155 Indian companies in Nigeria, with investments exceeding $27 billion across various sectors, ranging from plastics to steel, oil, pharmaceuticals, and beyond.
Furthermore, Balasubramanian underscored the significant role played by Indian companies in Nigeria’s employment landscape, emphasizing their position as the second-largest employers of labor after the Nigerian government.
Expressing satisfaction with the existing cooperation between Nigeria and India, particularly in cultural and diplomatic spheres, Balasubramanian reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding economic engagements.
“We are very happy with all the facilities that are being extended to our Embassy. We are more than happy about it and would like to continue the relationship,” affirmed Balasubramanian, underscoring India’s eagerness to further deepen ties with Nigeria.
The meeting between Wike and Balasubramanian signals a promising avenue for enhanced economic collaboration, poised to drive growth and development in Abuja while reinforcing the longstanding friendship between India and Nigeria.
