By: Joy Musa
In a bold stride toward economic transformation, Bauchi State has officially unveiled its upcoming Economic and Investment Summit, set to take place on October 8 and 9, 2025. Themed “Rebuilding a Resilient Economy: Optimising Investment and Partnerships,” the summit aims to reposition Bauchi as a premier destination for sustainable and inclusive investment.
Speaking at the unveiling event in Lagos, Governor Bala Mohammed represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Aminu Hammayo emphasized that true development must transcend GDP figures and statistical growth. “Growth is not an end in itself. Serving the human person and his overall wellbeing should constitute the be-all and end-all of our investment choices,” he said.
The governor underscored the importance of strategic partnerships, particularly with Lagos, Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, to attract capital inflows, generate employment, and uplift the quality of life for Bauchi’s citizens. “This is not just about business; it is about creating jobs, reducing poverty, and giving our people a better quality of life,” he added.
Sectoral Focus and Strategic Vision:
Alhaji Mohammed Gamawa, Commissioner for Commerce, Industry and Investment, outlined Bauchi’s multi-sectoral investment strategy. The state is actively courting investors across livestock, agriculture, solid minerals, ICT, and renewable energy. A key highlight is the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, aimed at boosting food security and scaling poultry, dairy, and aquaculture production for both domestic and export markets.
Gamawa also revealed Bauchi’s selection as the proposed site for a Special Oil and Gas Free Economic Zone in Kolmani, following hydrocarbon discoveries by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). This initiative is expected to catalyze industrial linkages and unlock new economic corridors.
On the mining front, Bauchi boasts over 100 documented mineral deposits, including limestone, kaolin, gold, zinc, and iron ore. The state is now shifting focus from artisanal mining to large-scale industrial processing to enhance global competitiveness.
Youth, Innovation, and Infrastructure:
With a youthful and dynamic population, Bauchi is leveraging strong ICT policies and renewable energy prospects to attract tech-driven investments. Infrastructure upgrades in markets, housing, and security further reinforce the state’s readiness to host investors.
Gamawa assured stakeholders that Bauchi is not just offering public-private partnerships, but “bankable PPPs” designed to deliver mutual value and long-term sustainability.
National Alignment and Global Outlook:
Mr. Aderemi Bolaji, a director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, lauded Bauchi’s proactive investment drive and urged alignment with federal economic reforms. He encouraged investors to look beyond negative narratives and recognize Bauchi as an emerging “investors’ destination.”
As the countdown to the summit begins, Bauchi State stands poised to chart a new course one that prioritizes human development, economic resilience, and shared prosperity.
