The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the Lombardy Regional Government of Italy have agreed to collaborate on agriculture and vocational education to enhance youth empowerment and economic development in Abuja. The partnership was announced following a meeting between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Lombardy’s President, Attilio Fontana, in Milan.
According to a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the collaboration will focus on modern agricultural practices and skill-based education, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT). The initiative aims to create job opportunities, encourage self-employment, and foster economic sustainability in the Nigerian capital.
Wike emphasized Abuja’s vast agricultural potential, noting that the FCT has over 800,000 hectares of land, with 274,000 hectares earmarked for agricultural development and 270,000 hectares designated as forest reserves. He highlighted the need for investment in agribusiness to maximize the region’s fertile land and boost food production.
“Lombardy is well known for its advancements in agriculture, and we want to leverage this expertise to bring in investors who will help develop Abuja’s agricultural sector. Our goal is to enhance food security, create employment, and ensure sustainable agribusiness growth in the FCT,” Wike said.
Fontana assured Wike of Lombardy’s commitment to the partnership, stating that the region is a leader in modern farming techniques and innovation. He noted that both sides would explore ways to exchange knowledge, with Nigerian officials potentially visiting Lombardy to study agricultural best practices.
“My team will sit with yours to identify priority areas and determine how we can collaborate effectively,” Fontana stated.
Wike also stressed the importance of vocational education, particularly in ICT and other skill-based programs, as a means of reducing unemployment and youth-related crime in Abuja. He noted that skill acquisition would help young people become self-reliant and contribute meaningfully to the economy.
“Vocational training, especially in ICT, is key. It provides self-employment opportunities, and once our youths can fend for themselves, they will stay off the streets, reducing crime and social vices. We are keen on collaborating with Lombardy in this area,” Wike added.
Fontana highlighted Lombardy’s leadership in technical education, revealing that the region houses more than 30% of Italy’s technical education institutions. He proposed setting up vocational training initiatives in Nigeria and offering opportunities for Nigerian professionals to visit Lombardy for further training.
“We are willing to collaborate with you in the education of the future because a lot of it is about software, innovation, and technology. We can establish something on vocational training in your country, and you can also come here to learn our education model,” Fontana said.
The discussions quickly moved toward implementation, with Wike inquiring about the next steps to formalize the agreement. Fontana responded that an official memorandum of understanding (MoU) could be drafted immediately for both parties to review and sign.
“Today. Our office will prepare an MoU, and your officers will review it with them. We sign and take off,” Fontana assured.
The agreement marks a significant step toward strengthening Abuja’s agricultural sector and equipping its youth with critical skills for employment and economic development. By leveraging Lombardy’s expertise in agriculture and vocational training, the FCTA aims to foster long-term growth and innovation in these sectors, creating sustainable opportunities for the people of Abuja.
