ABUJA — The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Tuesday sought collaboration with Finland in waste management and infrastructure development to support Abuja’s growing urban needs.
Wike made the call while receiving Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Sanna Selin, during a courtesy visit at his official residence in Life Camp, Abuja.
The minister described waste management as a critical priority for the FCT Administration, stressing the need for capable partners to address the city’s sanitation challenges.
“It will be glad for us if we can have discussions on waste management with firms that have the right capacity. That is very key for us,” he said.
He noted that Abuja’s rapid expansion requires sustained partnerships with international stakeholders to bridge infrastructure gaps and enhance service delivery.
Wike added that Nigeria and Finland share a cordial relationship, expressing the FCT Administration’s readiness to strengthen ties for mutual benefit.
“As a city, we are willing to cooperate with others across the world in areas such as infrastructure and agriculture. We will continue to optimise our relationship with Finland,” he said.
The minister also assured the envoy of improved security in the nation’s capital, noting ongoing infrastructure development across the city.
In her remarks, Selin said Finland was interested in supporting the FCT’s development agenda, particularly in smart city planning, clean energy, and sustainable construction.
She added that Abuja’s growth presents opportunities for cooperation in renewable energy, digital services, circular economy solutions, as well as water and waste management.
Selin also referenced a recent Memorandum of Understanding between Nigeria and Finland on digitalisation and innovation, expressing optimism that it would yield concrete projects.
The visit underscores ongoing efforts to deepen Nigeria–Finland relations through strategic partnerships aimed at supporting sustainable development in Abuja.
