By Ahmed Usman 
By Shehu Ibrahim Aliyu
Photo: Shaharuddin Galaje
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment that will attract both local and international investors ahead of the forthcoming Bauchi State Economic and Investment Summit (Bauchi Roadshow).
Speaking at the Community Engagement Interactive Session held at the New Banquet Hall, Government House Bauchi, Governor Mohammed said the summit was designed to review the state’s economic potential, determine the contribution of the private sector to its expansion, and integrate Bauchi’s economy into broader national and global markets.
“Growth is not an end in itself,” the Governor stressed, acknowledging that as critical stakeholders, there’s a need to go beyond figures and ensure that growth translates into tangible impact on the lives of the people.
Governor Mohammed emphasized Bauchi’s comparative advantages, including a population of over 10 million, 60 to 70 percent of whom are youths, as well as abundant natural resources that, if processed locally, would strengthen the value chain and create jobs.
He stressed the importance of forging mutually beneficial partnerships based on fairness, respect, and shared prosperity, noting that while investors bring capital and technology, Bauchi offers unique opportunities and resources.
The Governor highlighted reforms undertaken by his administration to ease doing business, including improving land registration processes, strengthening security, fighting corruption, and ensuring transparency in government dealings.
He assured stakeholders that the state is determined to establish appropriate legal frameworks to safeguard investments, protect investors, and encourage more productive ventures.
Governor Mohammed also pointed to major strides made in the last six years under his administration in improving critical infrastructure, governance institutions, and social stability, all of which he said laid the foundation for economic transformation.
The Community Engagement Session brought together business leaders, financiers, political stakeholders, traditional rulers, and civil society representatives, ahead of the Bauchi Roadshow scheduled as a precursor to the state’s Economic and Investment Summit.
During the interactive session, participants raised critical concerns around safety, investment assurances, and what would distinguish the Bauchi Economic and Investment Summit from similar gatherings elsewhere.
The forum also featured goodwill messages from key dignitaries, including the Hon. Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Muhammad Salis Gamawa, the Speaker of the Bauchi State House of Assembly, and the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Dr. Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, all of whom expressed support for the state government’s drive to make Bauchi a prime investment destination.
Farida Abdulwahab Oyedele