Agreements in Lombardy Will Boost FCT Economy, Create Employment – Wike

By Sofiat Adenekan

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, returned to Abuja on Monday, March 10, 2025, following a successful visit to Italy, where he secured key bilateral agreements with the Lombardy Regional Government.

Speaking to journalists upon arrival at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, the Minister highlighted the significant outcomes of his meeting with Lombardy’s President, Attilio Fontana.

These include an agreement to establish a vocational training center in Abuja to equip youths with essential skills and a partnership to modernize agriculture in the FCT through mechanization.

Wike emphasized that these initiatives will not only enhance the FCT’s economy but also generate employment opportunities for its residents.

“Our visit was highly productive. We signed a memorandum of understanding with Lombardy to set up a vocational training center in the FCT to empower our youths with skills.

Additionally, we are working on introducing mechanized agriculture to create more job opportunities and boost the economy.

This visit has been worthwhile, and I appreciate the government of Lombardy for their cooperation,” he stated.

The Minister also underscored the alignment of the agreements with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” stressing their potential to attract foreign investment into the FCT.

He noted, “Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr. President has been fostering international relationships to strengthen our economy.

With this collaboration, we anticipate more investors coming into the country.”

Last week, the FCT Minister met with President Attilio Fontana in Italy, where the Lombardy government pledged to support vocational education by establishing a training center in Abuja and facilitating skill development programs for Abuja youths