Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigeria to step up efforts to attract both local and foreign investments to drive sustainable economic development.
Obasanjo made the call on Wednesday in Bauchi during the inauguration of the newly completed International Conference Centre (ICC), built by Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration and named after the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the first Premier of Northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the event, the former president said Nigeria possesses the human and natural resources needed to compete globally, but must do more to harness them through strategic partnerships and private-sector participation.
“With what we have, we can show the world that we belong to the global community,” Obasanjo said. “Many countries don’t have half of our resources. This conference centre can serve as one of Nigeria’s major tourist and investment attractions.”
He added that the ICC, apart from hosting major conferences, would boost hospitality and tourism in Bauchi, bringing in visitors and investors from across Nigeria and beyond.
“Not only are we commissioning this centre, but we are also beginning discussions on investment. What Nigeria needs today is the mobilisation of investments — both local and international,” he noted.
Obasanjo also pledged to help promote Bauchi as an investment destination to the global community.
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Governor Bala Mohammed, in his remarks, said the project was conceived to position Bauchi as a hub for international conferences, trade, and business tourism.
The project contractor, Reuben Okoya, revealed that the ICC can host 3,000 guests and accommodate up to 10 different events simultaneously.
The inauguration drew a high-profile audience, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima; Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum; the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III; and the deputy governors of Oyo and Plateau States, Bayo Lawal and Josephine Piyo, among others.
