China, FCT to step up cooperation in urban dev’t, others

By Stanley Onyekwere

As part of elevation of the China-Nigeria relation to a more comprehensive strategic partnership, the Hunan Province and the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) have expressed commitment to strengthen cooperation in urban development, cultural education, tourism, environment amongst other areas of interest.
The FCT Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, who received the Hunan Province delegation on behalf of the Administration, stressed the importance of strategic partnership between the two cities.
Mahmoud emphasised that partnership in these critical sectors would allow Hunan Province and the Federal Capital Territory Administration to combine their resources, knowledge, and expertise.
“This can lead to greater innovation, more effective problem-solving, and enhanced capabilities that would be difficult to achieve alone.
“In other words, partnerships foster mutual benefit, strengthen individual and collective efforts, and promote growth and resilience”, the minister was quoted in a statement from her SA Media, Austine Elemue.
While appreciating the delegation for the warm reception extended to FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, and his delegation during his recent visit to China, she expressed confidence that there would be a better outcome.
“I also want to appreciate the dedication from China as a follow up visit. You have followed us since FCT delegation left China and it is left to us to look at more possible areas of collaboration.
“As you have noted the changes in the infrastructural development of FCT, people that were here before this administration, they know how FCT was and how FCT is looking now. So there are several areas we can collaborate”, she added.
Earlier, vice chairman of the Hunan Provincial Political Consultative Conference and leader of the delegation, Lai Mingyong, noted that Abuja as the capital and political-cultural centre of Nigeria is an international city filled with modern atmosphere.
Mingyong said: “This young city is renowned for its unique urban planning, beautiful architectural style, and well-developed infrastructure. It has grown into a modern metropolis with great achievements in terms of infrastructure”.
Also, Mingyong used the occasion to invite the FCT Administration to the China-Africa Economy and Trade Expo initiated by the President, Mr. Xi Jinping, hoping that new chapters would be developed during the Expo.
Recall that on September 3, 2024, President Xi Jinping met with Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was in China for the Beijing summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, and a state visit at the Great Hall of the people of Beijing.
The two heads of state announced the elevation of China-Nigeria relation to a comprehensive strategic partnership.