Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), met with the British High Commission in Abuja and highlighted security, agriculture, and job creation as key focus areas for the FCT Administration.
During a courtesy visit by a delegation from the British High Commission led by British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery, Wike emphasized the importance of addressing these priorities to enhance bilateral relations.
Wike emphasized the administration’s commitment to job creation, particularly in agriculture, to provide opportunities for the youth in the FCT. He also noted the support provided to security agencies to tackle existing challenges within the region.
The ongoing infrastructure development in Abuja and the Area Councils is not only aimed at enhancing the FCT’s progress but also serves as a platform for youth employment through various project engagements.
According to Wike, “Job creation is pivotal when discussing priorities. Failure to generate employment opportunities can have detrimental effects, especially on the youth. Our focus on job creation extends beyond conventional roles, providing employment through various projects and initiatives.”
“Numerous employment opportunities exist in the area councils, offering avenues for youth engagement. Therefore, job creation remains a primary concern for this administration,” he stated.
Highlighting the agricultural potential of the FCT, the Minister expressed a willingness to collaborate with investors to create employment opportunities and enhance food security.
“Efforts must be made to engage youth effectively and curb unemployment. By partnering with investors in agriculture, we aim to create job opportunities. This, to us, is a critical focus area. We welcome partnerships in these endeavors,” emphasized Wike.
Wike also welcomed investments and partnerships in the tourism sector to position the city as a prominent tourist destination.
Discussing the strides made in improving security, Wike acknowledged the progress achieved in recent months, attributing it to the collective efforts of security agencies.
The Minister highlighted that while security challenges persist, notable advancements have been made in combating criminal activities in the FCT region.
Expressing optimism that enhanced security measures will boost investor confidence, Wike stated, “While challenges remain, we are making significant strides, particularly in bolstering security. This progress is crucial, given the concerns raised not only by residents but also the diplomatic community.”