Nigeria and China sign landmark agreements to boost infrastructure projects in Abuja

The agreements were formalized on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, as part of a broader commitment to completing these critical projects within the agreed timelines.

The MoUs were signed by Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and China Geo-Engineering Corporation Overseas Construction Group (CGCOC).

According to a statement from Anthony Ogunleye, the Director of Press in the minister’s office, the projects are aimed at making Abuja a shining example among global cities as it approaches its 50th anniversary next year.

“One of the key projects dear to us is the lighting of Abuja.

With Abuja set to celebrate its 50th anniversary next year, we envision a jubilee year where Abuja shines like other global cities, similar to the impressive lighting we observed in Beijing,” the minister said in the statement.

Under the agreement, CCECC will be responsible for lighting key areas of Abuja, including Maitama, Asokoro, Wuse, the Central Business District, Airport Road, and Bill Clinton Drive.

Meanwhile, CGCOC will handle lighting projects in the districts of Mabushi, Katampe, and Garki.

In addition to the lighting initiative, the minister discussed the critical issue of water supply, emphasizing progress on the Greater Abuja Water Works project, which is being managed by CGCOC and is currently 75% complete. “The minister expressed optimism about the project’s completion by December,” Ogunleye said.

He also announced plans to extend water supply to rural areas such as Gwagwalada, Kwali, and Kuje through a new MoU with CGCOC.

“He highlighted the president’s directive not to focus solely on the city but to also address the needs of rural communities,” the statement added, reflecting a broader strategy to improve living standards across the entire Federal Capital Territory.

Both Chen Sichang, President of CCECC, and Lan Meizhong, President of CGCOC, expressed their gratitude for the trust placed in their companies and pledged their commitment to delivering high-quality projects on time.

The agreements are seen as a significant step towards enhancing Abuja’s infrastructure and improving the quality of life for its residents.

As Nigeria continues to partner with China on large-scale development projects, these efforts underscore the importance of international collaboration in achieving sustainable growth and development.