Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, on Wednesday, 5 August 2026, declared open the 2026 Abuja Business and Investment Expo (ABIE 3.0) at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, calling on investors, policymakers and development partners to convert discussions into concrete investments that will accelerate the growth of Nigeria’s capital city.
Represented at the opening ceremony by the Minister of State for the FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, Wike said the annual expo must serve as a platform for practical partnerships, investment commitments and measurable economic outcomes rather than remain a routine gathering of stakeholders.
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The minister commended the Group Managing Director of Abuja Investments Company Limited (AICL), Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, and the company’s management for sustaining the event as a major platform for showcasing investment opportunities within the Federal Capital Territory.
According to Wike, AICL plays a strategic role as the FCT Administration’s investment promotion agency by identifying viable opportunities, developing commercially sustainable projects and connecting investors with initiatives capable of supporting long-term economic development.
Speaking on the theme of the expo, “Building Nigeria’s Capital: Investment as a Catalyst for Economic Growth,” Wike described the focus as timely, noting that the development of a globally competitive capital city requires continuous investment in infrastructure, human capital, institutions and public services.
“Abuja Business and Investment Expo 3.0 must not be regarded as another ceremonial gathering. It must serve as a platform for meaningful discussions, credible partnerships, investment commitments and measurable economic outcomes,” Wike said.
The FCT Minister linked the ongoing transformation of Abuja to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which prioritises infrastructure development, improved public services and the creation of an environment where businesses can thrive.
He said the FCT Administration has completed several previously abandoned infrastructure projects, delivered major road networks and commenced the construction of new roads, bridges and interchanges aimed at improving movement and connectivity across the capital city.
Wike added that development efforts are also being extended to satellite towns while new districts are being opened for residential, commercial and industrial investments.
“The President has provided the political will and the necessary support for the implementation of this mandate. Today, the results are visible across the Federal Capital Territory,” he stated.
Earlier, AICL Group Managing Director Ambassador Maureen Tamuno said Abuja had recorded significant improvements in infrastructure, urban renewal and public services over the past three years, making the city more attractive to investors.
Tamuno pointed to the FCT’s ranking as fourth in the 2025 Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) Subnational Ease of Doing Business Index as evidence that reforms aimed at improving the investment climate are producing positive results.
She, however, noted that further efforts were required to fully unlock Abuja’s economic potential.
“This year’s edition is about moving from conversations to concrete action,” Tamuno said, explaining that the expo was designed to attract bankable projects and create opportunities for sustainable investment.
She said participants at the three-day event would engage in investment forums, exhibitions, business-to-business meetings and policy discussions covering key sectors including real estate, infrastructure, technology, renewable energy, solid minerals, sports and the creative economy.
Delivering the keynote address, Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr Emomotimi Agama, said Abuja had witnessed remarkable infrastructure growth since 2023, strengthening investor confidence and improving the city’s position as one of Nigeria’s emerging investment destinations.
The expo brings together government officials, business leaders, investors, financial institutions, development partners and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities and establish partnerships aimed at driving sustainable economic development in Abuja and across Nigeria.
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With the FCT administration pushing for increased private-sector participation, the event is expected to provide a vital platform for attracting investments that can support employment, innovation and long-term urban growth.
Mariam Balogun is a contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
