The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has called on investors to leverage the numerous opportunities in the FCT to drive sustainable growth and development.

Mr Wike made the call Wednesday at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Abuja Business and Investment Summit held at the Bola Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja.

The minister represented by the FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, assured participants that the current leadership of the FCT Administration remained resolute in ensuring that Abuja is not just the capital of Nigeria, but a beacon of sustainable development for the continent

He highlighted the critical moment Nigeria faced as it advanced under the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu, focusing on inclusive growth, infrastructure revitalisation, and job creation.

He said, “The summit’s theme: “Empowering Sustainable Growth: Unlocking Potential in Emerging Markets,’ aligns with the FCT Administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for business and investment.’’

The minister emphasised the importance of infrastructure as a foundation for industrialisation and economic development, detailing ongoing efforts to enhance road networks that connect satellite towns, area councils, and rural communities to the city centre.

“As Abuja symbolises Nigeria’s aspirations, our mission, supported by Mr President, is to make it a safe, investment, friendly city that empowers all citizens,” he added.

Wike, therefore, commended the Abuja Investment Company Limited (AICL) for organizing a pivotal event aimed at fostering strategic partnerships for the economic growth of the FCT.

He also stressed the FCT Administration’s openness to new ideas and solutions, welcoming forums like this summit to showcase investment opportunities and engage emerging markets.

According to the minister, “FCT Administration remains steadfast in building a sustainable, flourishing capital city and enhancing Nigeria’s position on the continental and global stage.”

Earlier, the Group Managing Director/CEO, Abuja Investments Company Limited, Maureen Tanuno, said the Expo aligned perfectly with the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Ms Tanuno said the vision continued to strengthen investors’ confidence, stabilise the micro-economy, and stimulate sustainable growth.

She revealed that this year’s expo convened investors, entrepreneurs, innovators, and development partners from Nigeria and around the world, including delegates from South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Botswana.

Tamuno further explained that the AICL as the investment arm of the FCT Administration, had, through its subsidiaries and strategic projects, remained committed to being a catalyst for sustainable growth and economic transformation.

She said this year’s programme featured dedicated youth day and women’s day to promote inclusion, connect innovators with investors, and ensure that no one is left behind.

(NAN)