Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerian leaders to intensify efforts to attract both local and international investments, saying such initiatives are key to the nation’s progress and economic sustainability.
Obasanjo made the call on Tuesday while commissioning the newly completed Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre in Bauchi State — a multi-purpose facility he described as a “world-class project capable of positioning Bauchi as a major investment and tourism hub.”
The former president lauded Governor Bala Mohammed for what he termed “a bold and visionary stride” toward making Bauchi a global destination for investors.
“With what we have, we can show the world that we are part and parcel of it,” Obasanjo said.
“What others have and pride themselves on is not more than what we have. Some people don’t even have half of what we have. This world-class centre can be developed and made one of the top tourist attractions in Nigeria.”
Obasanjo noted that the facility would not only serve as a venue for major conferences but also promote business engagement and tourism.
He continued, “What Nigeria needs today is investment — both local and international. We must mobilise these investments to grow our economy. I am ready to work with Governor Bala Mohammed anywhere to attract investors to Bauchi State.”
The Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre, constructed by Architectronix Nigeria Limited, sits on a 10,000-square-metre land area and can accommodate up to 3,000 guests at once.
Speaking on the project, the Chief Executive Officer of the firm, Mr. Ruben Okoya, described the edifice as a product of local innovation and capacity.
“This project is 100 per cent locally executed. Every square metre of granite used was sourced from Bauchi State. It shows that when leaders believe in local capacity, great things happen,” Okoya said.
According to him, the facility features five main halls capable of hosting ten events simultaneously, an outdoor event space for 2,500 guests, solar installations, standby power supply, and full internet connectivity.
He urged the Federal Government to consider Bauchi as a host for national events such as the Nigeria Oil and Gas Summit, citing the state’s emerging infrastructural strength and its status as an oil-producing region.
The project, whose foundation was laid in March 2021 by Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, attracted top dignitaries, traditional rulers, business executives, and foreign guests at the commissioning ceremony.
Many attendees hailed the project as a landmark achievement that signals Bauchi State’s readiness for greater economic transformation and global relevance.
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