By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The partnership of Bauchi State government has been sought by the Chinese government for a possible investment in Nigeria worth $30 billion.
The Chinese government, through its China-Africa International Economic Cooperation Committee, recently visited the Bauchi State Governor, Mr Mohammed Abubakar, at the Government House, for his support.
The China-Africa International Economic Cooperation Committee was established by the Chinese Government with the sole purpose of seeking investment in Africa.
During the visit, leader of the delegation in Nigeria, Captain Muhammad Joji, highlighted that the committee is aimed at encouraging private entrepreneurs and were willing to invest $30 billion in Nigeria alone.
Captain Joji further stated that he and his entourage were happy to see improvements in infrastructure in the state especially roads, maintaining that it shows that the Governor was spending the state’s funds judiciously, making him a leader and partner they could trust and also do business with.
On his part, Director of the Committee and leader of the delegation from China, Mr Liam expressed satisfaction in Governor Abubakar’s passion and zeal to collaborate with the Chinese in order to boost the economy of his state.
He then took his time to pray for the departed soul of the Emir of Katagum, Mr Muhammad Kabir Umar.
Highlighting the business potentials of the state, Director General of Bauchi State Investment Promotion Agency, Mr Aminu Musa, identified three sectors namely agriculture, solid minerals and tourism as comparative advantage of the state and therefore, attractive for investment.
Mr Musa assured the delegation of the state’s readiness to collaborate with any investor.
In his remarks, Governor Mohammed Abubakar reminded the delegation of the long standing relationship between China and Nigeria and indeed Bauchi State, describing the relationship as a fruitful one.
The Governor stated that there are many Chinese companies doing business in Nigeria, acknowledging that “the most reliable company (in road construction) we have in Bauchi State is a Chinese company named CGC”.
Mr Abubakar described Bauchi State as a virgin land waiting for investors to come and explore the potentials on ground.
He said for the Chinese to seek collaboration with the State is a welcomed development and his government is ready to facilitate the ease of doing business with the Chinese especially the China-Africa International Economic Cooperation Committee.
The Governor explained that the legislature had passed the PPP law and also reworked the land reform so that investors will be able to acquire land easily in the state.
Adedapo Adesanya