Bauchi State to foster partnership with global investors

The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has reaffirmed the state’s commitment to fostering partnerships with global investors by creating an enabling environment for business. This assurance was given during the third zonal sensitisation and advocacy workshop, organised by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), aimed at promoting Diaspora investment in the Northeast region. The event, held in Bauchi, underscored the critical role of Diaspora engagement in driving regional development.

Represented by Hajia Amina Muhammad Katagum, the Commissioner for Budget, Economic Planning, and Multilateral Coordination, Governor Mohammed commended NiDCOM for its efforts in convening the workshop. He highlighted the untapped potential of the Nigerian Diaspora, describing them as a key asset in providing investment, expertise, and skills that could significantly contribute to Nigeria’s progress. He encouraged states within the Northeast to leverage these opportunities to attract investments, reduce reliance on federal allocations, and focus on boosting internally generated revenue.

Speaking at the workshop, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NiDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, represented by the Commission’s Secretary, Engr. Dr. Sule Yakubu Bassi emphasised the vast resources available in the Northeast. She noted that Nigerians in the Diaspora had remitted over $90 billion in the past five years through financial contributions, intellectual property, goods, services, and investments. She stressed the importance of continued sensitisation to maximise Diaspora involvement in national development.

Dr Esther Ahmed, Special Adviser on Diaspora and Multilateral Affairs, highlighted the need for collaboration to strengthen Diaspora engagement further. She urged states in the region to devise strategic plans to attract investments and accelerate economic growth. Other contributors to the workshop included Gombe State’s Diaspora Focal Officer, Dr. Jamilu Jafaru, and Yobe State’s Diaspora Officer, Alhaji Modu.

This workshop is the third in a series designed to enhance Diaspora investment in Nigeria, following earlier editions held in Lagos for the Southwest and Enugu for the Southeast. Attendees included state commissioners, private sector stakeholders, and members of the State House of Assembly, all of whom expressed optimism about the Northeast’s potential to achieve economic transformation through Diaspora partnerships.