Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has assured investors of a secure and enabling business environment, declaring the State open for local and international investments across critical sectors, including agriculture, energy, tourism, and ICT.
Speaking at the Bauchi State Investment Summit held in Abuja on Tuesday, themed “Unlocking Investment Potentials in the Pearl of Tourism,” the governor, represented by his deputy, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, emphasised that Bauchi is one of the safest states in Nigeria and that investors can confidently operate without fear.
“Bauchi is one of the most secure states in Nigeria. Investors can move freely around the state without fear of molestation or attack.
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“Since our administration took over in 2019, we have laid a solid foundation for investors to thrive without any doubt or fear about the security of their businesses”, he noted.
The summit, the first of its kind for the State, brought together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors, showcasing the State’s vast potential and strategic readiness for sustainable investments.
During a panel session, Governor Bala reiterated the State’s stability in the face of regional security concerns, stating, “You know, I know, and I know you know as a journalist that Bauchi State is one of the most secured states not only in the North-East but in the whole of Nigeria.
“You can check your records, you can move in each and every inch of Bauchi State by road without being hindered or without being in fear of any molestation or attack.”
On public-private partnerships, the governor noted the administration’s openness to flexible investment arrangements.
“We are ready for direct investments, PPPs, knowledge sharing—any partnership that will stimulate the growth of Bauchi State.
“In terms of political will, I can tell you that Bauchi has removed most of the constraints to unlocking these investment opportunities”, he added.
Responding to questions on Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), the governor confirmed that several were in the works.
“We have signed MoUs with international partners, including the Shandong-Bauchi partnership. Many international companies are coming to work with us, and our commissioners can attest to the volume of engagements we’ve recorded”, he submitted.
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He concluded with an invitation, “This is just the beginning. We look forward to welcoming you all to Bauchi in October. Come and see for yourself what we have to offer.”
Highlighting economic reforms, Secretary to the State Government, Aminu Hamayo, said Bauchi is strategically aligning its development blueprint with the federal government’s economic direction.
“In the last two years, we have witnessed global realignments and economic reforms here at home. While some of them have been difficult, they are necessary to lay a solid foundation for industrial and agricultural transformation”, Hamayo said.
“This is the opportunity Bauchi State has uncovered. We are identifying sectors where Bauchi has a comparative or competitive advantage, sectors where investors can make money and, in turn, generate jobs and revenue for the state.”
He added that Bauchi has conducted extensive studies in collaboration with scholars and private-sector experts to map out its investment-ready sectors.
“We don’t want you to come to Bauchi State and lose money. We want you to make money, and in the process create significant economic activities, jobs, and sustainable revenue”, Hamayo added.
Also speaking, Yahuza Haruna, the Economic Adviser to the Governor, highlighted the Administration’s commitment to a liberal tax regime, efficient registration processes, and zero tolerance for corruption.
“We are committed to creating a business-friendly environment. We’ve ensured continuity in policy, and we will honour agreements made by previous administrations. That is our promise to potential partners.”
He also noted that Bauchi’s youth population is a strategic asset, offering a skilled labour force to drive industrial and service-based sectors.
“With a young, agile population, we offer both human capital and market potential. And our achievements in rural and urban infrastructure development stand as proof of our readiness.”
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The summit also spotlighted landmark attractions like the Yankari National Park, Wiki Warm Spring, and the International Bats Sanctuary, reinforcing the state’s branding as the Pearl of Tourism.
According to Hamayo, the State aims to harness these assets to expand eco-tourism and hospitality opportunities.
The summit served as a platform for collaboration, with a strong emphasis on policy continuity, economic diversification, and inclusive growth, positioning Bauchi State as one of Nigeria’s most promising investment destinations.
