By Sarah NEGEDU
The Agriculture and Rural Development Secretariat of the Federal Capital Territory Administration is seeking better collaboration and quality support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency, JICA, to strengthen the agricultural landscape of the territory, particularly in veterinary services.
Mandate Secretary of the Secretariat, Abdullahi Ango, who made the call while receiving a delegation from JICA, commended the longstanding partnership between the FCT Administration and JICA.
The secretary emphasized that as Nigeria’s capital, the FCT deserves top-tier services, particularly in critical sectors like veterinary services.
He assured the delegation of the FCT Administration’s commitment, under the leadership of the Minister, Nyesom Wike and Minister of State Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, to supporting initiatives that align with the vision of making Abuja one of the world’s best capital cities.
“The current FCT leadership is prioritizing infrastructural development, not just in the city center but across all six Area Councils,” Ango stated.
He reiterated his secretariat’s readiness to deepen engagements with JICA and align with global best practices to elevate the FCT’s agricultural sector. “Having recently assumed office, I am keen on strengthening our collaboration with JICA to further advance the agricultural sector.”
Responding, JICA’s Country Representative in Nigeria, Prof. Wataru Yamazaki, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and outlined JICA’s ongoing efforts to build capacity within the FCT’s veterinary sector.
He stated that the agency is developing a specialized training manual in collaboration with the Veterinary Services Department of the Secretariat. The training will focus on modern abattoir management techniques and global standards aimed at enhancing hygiene, safety, and efficiency.
Director of Veterinary Services, Dr. Idris Ademoh, expressed optimism that the initiative would significantly improve service delivery and operational standards in the FCT’s veterinary ecosystem.
