Obasanjo urges investment in Bauchi as he commissions a world-class conference centre, praising its potential for tourism and economic transformation

Obasanjo urges investment in Bauchi as he commissions the newly completed Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre, describing the project as a world-class facility with the power to reshape the state’s economy and global standing.

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Speaking at the unveiling ceremony on Tuesday, the former Nigerian President commended Governor Bala Mohammed’s foresight and bold infrastructural push, calling the centre “a masterpiece” and “a symbol of what Nigerian states can achieve with vision and commitment.”

“What others have and pride themselves on is not more than what we have,” Obasanjo said. “This world-class centre can be developed and made one of the top tourist attractions in Nigeria.”

He noted that the facility is not just symbolic but functional, as it will serve as a hub for international conferences, tourism, and investor engagement.

The commissioning coincided with an investment-focused summit — a deliberate move by the state to attract both local and international capital.

“What do we need in Nigeria today? We need to mobilise investments from local and international sources,” Obasanjo said, adding, “I will go anywhere with the governor to get investments for Bauchi State.”

Ruben Okoya, CEO of Architectronix Nigeria Limited, the firm behind the project, described the centre as “100 per cent locally executed,” built entirely with local engineers and Bauchi-sourced granite.

The facility spans 10,000 square metres, with a 3,000-person indoor capacity, five multi-use halls, an outdoor event space, mosque, solar installations, generators, and full internet coverage.

“This shows that when leaders trust local capacity, excellence follows,” Okoya said.

He also urged the Federal Government to consider hosting national events like the Nigeria Oil and Gas Summit in Bauchi, citing the state’s new infrastructure and oil-producing status.

The project has drawn comparisons to the visionary real estate developments seen in firms like Adron Home, where local sourcing, community empowerment, and infrastructural excellence remain top priorities.

Observers hailed the initiative as a model of regional development through strategic investment and modern design.

The new conference centre is just one part of a broader transformation drive in Bauchi.

In September 2025, the state approved ₦6.5bn for the dualisation of 7.5km of road in Misau, aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing road safety in the commercial hub.

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Governor Bala Mohammed reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for business, tourism, and innovation.

Obasanjo urges investment in Bauchi at conference launch