By Muh'd Shafi'u Saleh In a continued demonstration of his administration's commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy ...
By Muh'd Shafi'u Saleh
In a continued demonstration of his administration's commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy and good governance, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State on Thursday officially flagged off the construction of a state-of-the-art International Conference and Events Centre in the heart of Yola.
Speaking at the ground-breaking ceremony, Governor Fintiri described the project as part of his administration’s strategic initiatives to place Adamawa on the map of progress and prosperity.
“We are here again in fulfilment of what has become the hallmark of our administration—initiating and executing projects that strategically position our state for development and shared prosperity,” he said.
According to the governor, the Centre, upon completion, will feature world-class facilities including main and mini conference halls, galleries, administrative offices, a restaurant, a tea room, outdoor seating arrangements, and uninterrupted power supply.
Governor Fintiri emphasised the potential economic and commercial benefits the Centre would bring to the state, attracting various events such as conferences, political gatherings, awards ceremonies, graduation parties, and exhibitions.
“Only the shortsighted would fail to recognise the transformative impact this project will have. Beyond its aesthetic and architectural brilliance, it will serve as a catalyst for economic growth,” he added.
He also noted that the Centre’s proximity to the Yola International Airport makes it a viable destination for both national and international events. This, he said, will further stimulate investment, tourism, job creation, and internally generated revenue for the state.
“This project represents our bold and strategic efforts at building the Adamawa of the future. We are deliberately tapping into the MICE industry—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions—positioning Adamawa to become a major player in this multibillion-dollar global sector,” the governor explained.
He called on relevant stakeholders to begin engaging global event planners and inform them that Yola will be ready to host major national and international conferences within the next 12 months.
“We hope to attract significant events such as the NBA, ICAN, and CIBN conferences, among others,” he said. “This project is a key component of our broader investment promotion strategy. We cannot attract investors without the necessary infrastructure.”
Governor Fintiri highlighted the achievements of his administration in infrastructure development, noting that Yola now boasts one of the most convenient road networks in Nigeria relative to its size. He reaffirmed his commitment to completing the long-abandoned Yola Stadium and delivering what he described as the best International Conference Centre in northern Nigeria within a year.
“Infrastructure development remains our top priority. We have undertaken over 30 rural electrification projects and initiated strategic partnerships in renewable energy to power communities and encourage sustainable development,” he said.
The governor also spoke on the State Action on Business Enabling Reforms (SABER), which he said has improved the business environment in Adamawa. Through digital transformation and regulatory reforms, the state has reduced business registration timelines, automated government services, and improved transparency in land transactions.
He proudly noted that Adamawa’s Ease of Doing Business score improved from 5.25 in 2021 to 5.86 in 2023, resulting in a 10-place jump in national rankings.
Governor Fintiri highlighted an increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), enhanced by digital financial systems and a commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline. Adamawa, he said, has consistently ranked among the top five in Nigeria on the State Fiscal Transparency League Table since 2023.
“Our 2024 budget performance exceeds 80%. We’ve reduced overhead costs by over 40%, improved procurement processes, and repaid more than 50% of our debt profile. These measures have earned us a BBB+ investment rating from credible agencies,” he stated.
In education, Governor Fintiri said his administration has prioritised infrastructure and teacher welfare, leading to remarkable improvements in WAEC and NECO performance. For three consecutive years, Adamawa has ranked top in the Northeast and among the top five states nationally.
“Our deliberate investments are yielding results—basic education is free, and no student in public schools has paid for NECO or WAEC in the past six years. We are building smart schools and providing teaching aids while regularly paying teachers' salaries,” he said.
On healthcare, the governor noted that new hospitals and clinics have been constructed, existing ones renovated, and healthcare personnel placed on competitive salaries. The Adamawa State Health Insurance Scheme is now providing free medical services to children under five, pregnant women, and the elderly.
“The Federal Ministry of Health ranks Adamawa top in the Northeast in terms of health indicators. This is a reflection of our people-centred policies,” he noted.
Concluding his address, Governor Fintiri reaffirmed his administration's resolve to serve all citizens equally and continue delivering transformative projects.
“This is not a day for a scorecard, but as we mark two years into our renewed mandate, I feel obligated to update you. We are keeping your mandate alive and active, and by God’s grace, we shall continue to deliver an Adamawa State where no one is left behind and nothing is left untouched,” he declared.
“With that, I hereby formally perform the ground-breaking and flag-off the construction of the Adamawa State International Conference and Events Centre in Yola, to the glory of God and benefit of humanity.”
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