By Stanley Onyekwere
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is seeking a strategic partnership with the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) focusing on security, economic growth, green city development, and other areas of mutual interest.
The Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef bin Mohammed Al-Balawi, proposed the collaboration during a visit to the FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ambassador Al-Balawi commended Minister Wike and President Bola Tinubu’s administration for their efforts in developing what he described as a “beautiful green city.”
He expressed a strong desire to strengthen the existing relationship with the FCT Administration,exchange expertise regarding sustainable urban development and green city initiatives, and foster deeper connections between Abuja and Saudi Arabian hubs like Riyadh and other major cities.
R responding, Wike highlighted the long-standing and robust relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria.
He emphasized that the FCT is eager to leverage this bond for the advancement of the territory.
“We will be happy and willing to visit Riyadh and other cities in Saudi Arabia to identify areas of common interest and collaborate for mutual benefit.
“Saudi Arabia is a pivotal state in the Gulf Region with a rich history and a strong partnership with Nigeria.
We want to capitalize on this to ensure Riyadh and the FCT can learn from one another”, Wike stated.
The Minister thanked Ambassador Al-Balawi for acknowledging the ongoing transformation of the FCT, attributing the progress to President Tinubu’s political will.
Wike noted that the current administration is focused on elevating the FCT into a modern metropolis capable of competing on the global stage.
“We have not yet reached our final destination, but the Tinubu administration is committed and possesses the vision necessary to elevate the capital city to a global standard,” he concluded.
