29/05/2025
6th Anniversary: Gov Fintiri Flags Off Construction of International Conference Centre In Yola
As part of activities marking his sixth anniversary in office, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Thursday, May 29, 2025, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of an ultramodern International Conference and Event Centre in Yola.
The contract, valued at ₦18.972 billion, was awarded to Messrs Lubell Nigeria Limited. Once completed, the state-of-the-art facility is expected to serve as a hub for investors, boost internally generated revenue, and create employment opportunities across the state.
The Centre will include a 1,000-seat multipurpose hall, syndicate rooms, a 360-capacity auditorium, a 100-seat seminar room, a pre-function area, restaurants, cafés, kitchen and catering services, retail outlets, a medical support unit, security infrastructure, CCTV operations, and landscaped areas.
In his address at the event, held at the State Secretariat Complex in Yola, Governor Fintiri described the project as a strategic economic investment.
“Most interesting and heart-warming is the economic and commercial value this project will attract to the state. With the calibre of conferences, political meetings, workshops, graduation ceremonies, and awards expected to be hosted here, only the short-sighted will fail to see the long-term impact on our economy. This is in addition to other socio-economic benefits that will soon become evident.”
The Governor highlighted the proximity and viability of the Yola International Airport, stating that the Centre will attract local and international patronage, further opening Adamawa to investment and tourism. He emphasized that the multiplier effect will be visible through job creation, increased commercial activity, and improved state revenue.
“This Centre will transform Adamawa into a commercial hub and spark development in nearby towns and villages—through new roads, shops, and support services. It will also generate employment, as a dedicated team will be needed to run and maintain the facility.”
Governor Fintiri said the project reflects his administration’s bold vision of building the Adamawa of the future by harnessing opportunities in the hospitality and tourism sectors. He pointed to the MICE industry Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions as a key target.
“We aim to position Adamawa as a major player in the MICE industry. As we lay this foundation today, I urge relevant authorities to begin reaching out to global event planners. Let them know that within 12 months, Yola will be ready to host meetings, conferences, and exhibitions with world-class infrastructure and incentives. We plan to host major events such as NBA, ICAN, and CIBN conferences here in Yola.”
He added that the project is a critical part of Adamawa’s broader investment promotion campaign, emphasizing the need to back up investor-friendly policies with concrete infrastructure:
“We cannot keep asking investors to come to Adamawa without providing the right environment. They want good roads, clean surroundings, and reliable facilities. We are now turning our words into action.”
Governor Fintiri also listed other achievements of his administration, including the completion of a modern and efficient road network in Yola, the revival of the moribund Yola Stadium after 27 years, and the ex*****on of over 30 rural electrification projects across several Local Government Areas. He announced ongoing partnerships with renewable energy investors for the development of solar farms and mini-grids.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Alhaji Abdullahi Adamu Pirambe, assured the public that the project will be delivered within the stipulated timeframe. He praised the Governor for transforming the state capital into an economic hub, noting that the new Centre would redefine Adamawa’s economic landscape.
📸Thomas Terry
