By Aminu Adamu
Yola, Nigeria
Adamawa State Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, on Wednesday, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a state-of-the-art International Conference and Events Centre in Yola, describing the project as a strategic milestone in the state’s transformation agenda.
Speaking at the event, Governor Fintiri said the project exemplifies his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development as a means of delivering good governance and driving economic prosperity.
“When completed, this Centre will place Adamawa strategically on the map of progress and bring shared prosperity to our people,” he declared, adding that the facility will include world-class galleries, mini halls, administrative offices, restaurants, outdoor seating areas, and an uninterrupted power supply.
Beyond its physical aesthetics, the Governor emphasized the economic impact the Centre is expected to deliver, stating that it will attract high-profile conferences, exhibitions, political gatherings, and corporate events, further cementing Adamawa’s emerging status as a destination for investment and tourism.
“This Centre will transform the state into a commercial hub and stimulate development in surrounding communities,” Fintiri said. “It will generate direct and indirect jobs, increase our IGR, and make Adamawa a strong contender in the MICE industry—Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions.”
Highlighting the state’s readiness for such a project, the Governor pointed to the viability of Yola International Airport and the state’s improved infrastructure, including what he described as the most convenient road network in a city of its size across the country.
Governor Fintiri also used the opportunity to take stock of his administration’s performance two years into his renewed mandate. He cited significant strides in rural electrification, education, healthcare, and economic reforms.
According to him, over 30 rural electrification projects have been completed, improving agriculture and commerce across multiple LGAs. In education, the state has recorded three consecutive years of top performance in WAEC and NECO, achieving over 65% of students earning five credits, including English and Mathematics.
On health, the Governor said new hospitals have been constructed and existing ones rehabilitated, while healthcare workers receive competitive remuneration. The State Health Insurance Scheme now offers free medical care for children under five, pregnant women, and senior citizens above 65.
Fintiri also touted Adamawa’s improved Ease of Doing Business score, rising from 5.25 in 2021 to 5.86 in 2023, and noted the state’s consistent top-5 ranking in fiscal transparency since 2023. He said the state’s debt profile has been slashed by over 50%, with a BBB+ investment rating from credible agencies.
Addressing critics, the Governor dismissed calls to slow down development projects, insisting that “there is nothing to slow down on.” He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to pursuing bold reforms and strategic investments in infrastructure and social services.
“We are elected to deliver good governance, not to respond to pedestrian tantrums,” he said, in a veiled response to political opponents. “We are too good to be distracted.”
Governor Fintiri concluded by calling on relevant agencies to engage global event planners in anticipation of the Centre’s completion in 12 months, reaffirming his administration’s determination to build “an Adamawa where no one is left behind and nothing is left untouched.”
With the symbolic turning of the soil, construction of what the Governor described as “the best International Conference Centre in northern Nigeria” is now officially underway.
