Nigeria Needs Local and Foreign Investments to Progress – Obasanjo
Former President Commends Bauchi’s Vision at Conference Centre Commissioning
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the urgent need for both local and international investments to drive Nigeria’s development. He made this remark on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, while commissioning the newly completed Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre in Bauchi State.
Describing the facility as world-class, Obasanjo praised Governor Bala Mohammed for initiating and completing the landmark project, which he said could serve as a major catalyst for tourism, business, and investment in the region.
“With what we have, we can show the world we are not left behind,” Obasanjo stated. “Many countries take pride in much less than what we possess. This conference centre is a facility we can develop into a top tourist and investment attraction.”
Highlighting the need for economic partnerships, Obasanjo stressed that Nigeria must actively attract capital from both domestic and global sources to unlock its full potential.
“What Nigeria needs today is investment—local and international. This commissioning is just the beginning. We must now begin conversations around investment and economic opportunities,” he said.
“And I’m ready to work with the governor to secure such investments for Bauchi.”
The facility, which covers 10,000 square metres, was designed and constructed by Architectronix Nigeria Limited. According to the company’s CEO, Ruben Okoya, the conference centre can host 3,000 people at once and features five major halls, an outdoor space for 2,500 guests, a mosque, full internet coverage, solar installations, and backup power supply.
“Every granite slab used here was sourced from within Bauchi State. This reflects the rich natural resources of the state,” Okoya noted.
“This project was entirely handled by local engineers and contractors—proof that with the right leadership and belief in local capacity, we can deliver world-class infrastructure.”
He also encouraged the Federal Government to consider Bauchi as a venue for future national events, especially given its oil-producing status and upgraded infrastructure.
Okoya recalled that the foundation stone of the project was laid in March 2021 by Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, during a visit to Bauchi, and expressed pride that the vision had come to life.
The commissioning attracted dignitaries from across Nigeria and abroad, including traditional rulers, business leaders, and government officials, who hailed the development as a major step forward for Bauchi State’s growth and modernization.
As part of its wider development agenda, the Bauchi State Government recently approved ₦6.5 billion for the dualisation of a 7.5-kilometre road in Misau Local Government Area. The road upgrade aims to enhance connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and improve safety in Misau, a key commercial town along the Bauchi–Azare highway.
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