China, FCT to strengthen cooperation in urban development, education, others

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Hunan Province have pledged to increase collaboration in a number of areas, including urban development, cultural education, tourism, and the environment, as part of the elevation of the China-Nigeria relationship to a more comprehensive strategic partnership.

The significance of the strategic collaboration between the two cities was emphasised by FCT Minister of State, Mariya Mahmoud, who received the delegation from Hunan Province on behalf of the Administration.

Mahmoud underlined that collaboration in these vital areas will enable the Federal Capital Territory Administration and Hunan Province to pool their resources, skills, and knowledge.

According to her; “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”.

While appreciating the delegation for the warm reception extended to FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and his delegation during his recent visit to China, she expressed confidence that there would be a better outcome.

Mahmoud further said; “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”.

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.

“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”.

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.

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.