President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to make Nigeria a secure and attractive destination for local and international investors.
He said the government is strengthening legal, financial, and institutional systems to safeguard investments, improve returns, and remove obstacles that discourage business growth.
The President made the remarks during the unveiling of the Sales Office and Experience Centre for the Abuja City Walk Development in Abuja.
Vice President Kashim Shettima represented him at the ceremony.
City Walk Presented as Symbol of Renewed Hope Agenda
According to the President, the Abuja City Walk project reflects the practical implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, demonstrating that the administration is focused on delivering major infrastructure rather than making empty promises.
He described the newly opened experience centre as more than just another building, calling it a gateway to a significant investment opportunity expected to contribute to Nigeria’s economic transformation.
Tinubu said the project showcases the government’s determination to modernize infrastructure while creating an environment that encourages private sector participation.
Free Trade Zone Status Expected to Boost Economic Activity
The President highlighted the strategic decision to designate the development corridor as a Free Trade Zone, saying the move is intended to reduce commercial barriers and stimulate business activities.
He explained that the designation would encourage regional trade while supporting sectors such as healthcare, retail, hospitality, and tourism.
The project, he added, illustrates how collaboration between government and private investors can drive large-scale development.
FCT Reforms Revive Long-Abandoned Development Corridor
Tinubu praised the Federal Capital Territory Administration for revitalizing the Abuja Technology Village corridor, an area that had remained largely inactive for two decades.
He credited reforms in land administration and efforts to eliminate bureaucratic delays for accelerating development across the corridor, transforming it into an active construction and investment hub.
The President also stressed that his administration intends to end the practice of land speculation and abandoned projects, insisting that land should be used to generate economic growth rather than remain idle.
Government Urges Faster Construction Progress
While celebrating the launch of the sales office, Tinubu challenged the FCT Administration and the project’s development partners to maintain the current pace of work.
He emphasized that the opening of the Experience Centre should be followed by visible construction progress, ensuring the project moves quickly from planning to completion.
The President added that sustainable national development requires close cooperation between government institutions and private investors.
Wike Says Development Will Create Jobs and Attract Capital
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike described the launch as an important milestone in the Tinubu administration’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment into Nigeria.
He noted that government has the responsibility to create a business-friendly environment, while citizens also have a role to play by supporting policies designed to promote economic stability and long-term development.
According to Wike, projects like Abuja City Walk have the potential to generate employment opportunities and stimulate broader economic activity.
Developers Outline Vision for a Modern Urban Community
Executive Director of Link Development, Dr. Kassim Gidado, explained that the project is designed as a comprehensive mixed-use development that will function as a self-contained urban district.
He said the master plan includes residential communities, schools, shopping centres, worship facilities, recreational spaces, a green corridor, and a Free Trade Zone, creating what he described as a “city within a city.”
Gidado thanked President Tinubu and the FCT Administration for supporting the initiative, expressing confidence that it would become one of Africa’s leading investment destinations.
International Partners Back Ambitious Project
Peter John Young, Chief Executive Officer of BroadGate Development Group and Project Manager for Abuja City Walk, said the development is expected to introduce a new standard for urban planning on the continent.
He pledged to work closely with the Nigerian government to deliver a world-class destination capable of reshaping perceptions of African city development.
Neil Serridge, Deputy Director at Benoy and the project’s master planner, also expressed confidence in the development, saying it would feature landmark architecture and modern infrastructure designed to stand out internationally.
Vice President Tours Newly Opened Experience Centre
The ceremony concluded with Vice President Kashim Shettima leading government officials, project partners, and invited guests on a guided tour of the newly inaugurated Experience Centre.
The facility is expected to serve as the project’s primary sales and information hub while providing prospective investors with a detailed preview of the vision for the Abuja City Walk development.
