Wike Seeks Abuja–Saudi City Alliance as FCTA Deepens Ties with Riyadh

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reaffirmed the FCTA’s readiness to partner with Riyadh and other Saudi cities to boost urban development and economic cooperation.
Wike made this known in Abuja on Tuesday while receiving the Saudi Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al Balawi. He said the collaboration would build on the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia, with a focus on city-to-city learning and development.
The minister also expressed interest in visiting Saudi cities to explore opportunities for exchange in urban planning and infrastructure.
Ambassador Al Balawi, who assumed duty in February, praised Abuja’s growth and called for stronger cooperation in areas such as security, economy, and city planning. He noted that cities like Jeddah share similarities with Abuja, offering a solid base for collaboration.
Wike assured the diplomatic community of a safe and supportive environment, adding that ongoing development in Abuja aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.