Former President Olusegun Obasanjo emphasized the need for local and international investments to drive Nigeria’s progress during the commissioning of the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Conference Centre in Bauchi on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. Describing the facility as world-class, Obasanjo praised Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed for his vision, noting that the centre positions Bauchi as a hub for investment and tourism.
“This world-class centre can be developed and made one of the tourist attractions in Nigeria,” Obasanjo said, highlighting its potential to foster business, tourism, and global engagement. He urged mobilization of investments, stating, “I will go anywhere with the governor to get investments for Bauchi State.”
Ruben Okoya, CEO of Architectronix Nigeria Limited, which executed the project, called the 10,000-square-metre facility a “masterpiece” capable of hosting 3,000 people across five main halls and a 2,500-capacity outdoor space. Built entirely by local engineers using locally sourced granite, the centre features solar power, standby generators, a mosque, and full internet connectivity. Okoya urged the Federal Government to host national events, like the Nigeria Oil and Gas Summit, in Bauchi, given its oil-producing status.
The project, initiated in March 2021, marks a milestone in Bauchi’s modernization efforts, complementing recent infrastructure investments like the N6.5 billion dualisation of a 7.5-km Misau township road to ease congestion and enhance safety. The commissioning drew top officials, traditional rulers, industry leaders, and international guests, who hailed the centre as a catalyst for economic transformation.
