Obasanjo supports Bauchi investment drive, pledging to help attract local and foreign investors at the launch of a world-class conference centre

Obasanjo supports Bauchi investment as the former Nigerian president pledged to help the Bauchi State Government attract both local and foreign investors during the inauguration of the new Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre on Wednesday.

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Speaking in Bauchi, Olusegun Obasanjo described the state-of-the-art edifice as a world-class facility capable of transforming the state into a vibrant hub for business, tourism, and global dialogue.

He lauded Governor Bala Mohammed for what he called “a bold and visionary initiative” that reflects Bauchi’s growing ambition for economic relevance.

“With what we have, we can show the world that we are part and parcel of it,” Obasanjo declared. “Some people don’t even have half of what we have.

This world-class centre can be made one of Nigeria’s leading tourist attractions.”

The former president added that the project would not only enhance social and commercial engagement but also provide a powerful platform for attracting investors.

“What Nigeria needs today is to mobilise investments from both local and international sources,” he noted. “I will go anywhere with the governor to get investments for Bauchi State.”

Architect Ruben Okoya, Chief Executive Officer of Architectronix Nigeria Limited, which designed and executed the project, described the new facility as “a masterpiece conceived and completed under Governor Bala Mohammed’s visionary leadership.”

According to Okoya, the 10,000-square-metre complex boasts five main halls capable of hosting 10 events simultaneously and accommodating up to 3,000 guests.

He added that every square metre of granite used was sourced from Bauchi State, underscoring the administration’s commitment to local capacity and resources.

The complex also includes a 2,500-capacity outdoor arena, a mosque, solar power installations, backup generators, and full internet connectivity.

Okoya urged the Federal Government to consider Bauchi for major national events such as the Nigeria Oil and Gas Summit, citing the state’s infrastructure and emerging oil-producing status as major advantages.

He further recalled that the foundation of the centre was laid in March 2021 by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who attended as a guest of honour, and expressed delight that the project’s vision had been fully realised.

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The inauguration drew a distinguished audience of government officials, traditional rulers, investors, and foreign guests, who praised the development as a landmark achievement in Bauchi’s quest for modernisation and sustained economic growth.