The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has unveiled bold plans to transform the six Area Councils of the FCT into thriving tourism and investment destinations, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking during the inaugural FCT Area Councils’ Tourism and Hospitality Investment Carnival and Expo at the Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts and Culture, the FCT Minister of State, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Social Development Secretariat, Mrs. Bunmi Olowookere, said the initiative aims to harness the rich cultural and economic potential of the Area Councils to drive inclusive development and sustainable wealth creation.
“Through the celebration of our indigenous culture, business innovation, and investment opportunities, this administration is determined to ignite economic revitalization, foster inclusive community development, and build pathways to sustainable prosperity,” Dr. Mahmoud stated.
She revealed that under the leadership of Barr. Nyesom Wike, the FCTA has received a presidential directive to reposition the FCT’s culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors to meet global standards. She emphasized that the Area Councils hold the bulk of these untapped assets and must play a central role in this transformation.
Commending the Tourism Department of the Social Development Secretariat for championing the expo, Mahmoud assured that the FCTA would continue to support partnerships and programs that unlock the territory’s tourism potential.
Echoing this commitment, Hon. Aminu Ibrahim, Mandate Secretary of the Social Development Secretariat—represented by Dr. Nasiru Shidali, Director of Administration and Finance—described tourism as a powerful economic driver capable of generating jobs, boosting revenue, and regenerating communities.
“Abuja is one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, and this expo underscores our commitment to creating an investment-friendly environment. The central location of the FCT and its rising population make it a magnet for cultural stakeholders and investors,” he said.
Ibrahim affirmed that the FCT Administration, aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is taking strategic steps to reposition the capital as a cultural and commercial hub on the continent.
