The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has re-assured members of the diplomatic community in Nigeria of the safety and security of all genuine investments in the state.
He gave the assurance when he received a delegation of ambassadors and heads of diplomatic missions at the Bauchi State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.
The delegation comprised envoys from twelve countries, including China, Pakistan, Iran, Palestine, the Philippines, Serbia, Egypt, Kenya, Algeria, Tunisia, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Governor Mohammed said; “his administration remains committed to creating a conducive environment for both local and foreign investors,” stressing that Bauchi is rich in natural resources and open for sustainable partnerships that promote economic growth and job creation.
The meeting focused on exploring modalities for implementing the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Partnership Agreements (PAs) signed between investors from their respective countries and the Bauchi State Government during the recent Economic and Investment Summit.
Governor Mohammed expressed his appreciation to the diplomats for their continued interest in Bauchi’s economic prospects, assuring them that the partnerships would be mutually beneficial.
He outlined the state’s investment potential in sectors such as solid minerals, healthcare, education, water resources, tourism, and agriculture — areas he said were open for collaboration and development.
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According to the Governor, “strategic investments in these sectors are crucial to upgrading infrastructure and meeting the challenges posed by Bauchi’s growing population.”
He commended the People’s Republic of China for offering scholarships to Bauchi indigenes and called for expanded cooperation in education and human capital development.
“We have to conquer the issue of illiteracy because we are a huge population, and most people who are coming to settle in Bauchi from neighbouring states — because of the peace we enjoy — lack access to education,” he said.
Governor Mohammed expressed gratitude for existing bilateral relations and exchange programmes with countries such as China and Pakistan, which have supported agriculture and healthcare development in the state.
He also acknowledged progress in healthcare infrastructure but lamented the shortage of medical professionals due to brain drain.
The Governor praised Pakistan and Egypt for their partnerships in the Health sector and pledged continued collaboration to strengthen the training of healthcare workers.
Highlighting Bauchi’s tourism potential, he cited the Yankari Game Reserve and other destinations as opportunities for investment that could boost Nigeria’s global tourism profile.
He referenced successful models in Kenya and Namibia as examples the state aims to emulate.
On solid minerals, Governor Mohammed described Bauchi’s resources as vast and under exploited, noting that Chinese firms have already signed MoUs with the state for mining activities involving limestone, gold, and tantalite.
“We want reputable mining companies to come and invest. We always want to be part of it so that we can protect your investment,” he said.
The Governor assured investors of the government’s readiness to safeguard their interests and foster inclusive growth through responsible engagement with local communities.
He expressed optimism that the development of the solid minerals sector could become a major driver of prosperity for Bauchi State.