Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has called on U.S. partners to deepen collaboration with Nigeria in smart cities, housing, and ICT, with a focus on co-creating sustainable urban futures that benefit both Africa and the United States.

She made the call at the 8th edition of the US–Africa Business Week 2025, held on the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Mahmoud described Abuja as a strategic hub for investment and innovation, citing its prime location, modern infrastructure, abundant resources, and vibrant youthful population.

She also highlighted flagship projects such as Centenary City and the World Trade Centre in Abuja as proof of Nigeria’s ambition to build sustainable smart cities, noting that Africa’s smart city market is projected to reach $1.5 billion in 2025, with Abuja expected to play a leading role.

According to a statement issued by her Special Assistant, Media, Austine Elemue, the Minister underscored the vital role of Nigerian women and youth as key drivers of economic growth, noting that over 70% of Abuja’s population is under 35 and that women are increasingly assuming leadership roles.

She called for partnerships to deploy ICT solutions and smart grids, to engage with Nigeria’s innovative Land Swap housing model, and to leverage youthful talent in establishing tech hubs, data centres, and software firms to build a digital ecosystem across the continent.

Mahmoud emphasized the summit’s theme of building bridges and called for joint efforts to create a legacy of innovation, inclusion, and mutual benefit.

She, therefore, reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s shared commitment to building bridges of innovation, inclusion, and prosperity between Africa and the United States.

Mahmoud expressed confidence that the collaboration between American innovation and Nigerian resilience would produce sustainable urban growth models defining Africa’s future while urging all participants to convert dialogue into action.

The session brought together the Executive Governor of Zamfara, Dauda Lawal Dare, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, distinguished policymakers, investors, business leaders, and professionals from both the United States and Africa. (The Nation)