Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has appointed Li Zhensheng, a Chinese national, as Economic Adviser to the state government, marking a significant step in deepening international partnerships.
The appointment was announced on Thursday during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Bauchi State Government and the China Global Promotion Cooperation Research Centre in Bauchi.
According to Governor Mohammed, the move is part of a broader strategy to position Bauchi as an emerging hub for international cooperation and investment, with the long-term partnership aimed at accelerating development across key sectors, including agriculture, education, healthcare, manufacturing, mining, oil and gas, and trade facilitation.
“As part of the deal, a Bauchi State Representative Office will be established in China to oversee project implementation and ensure timely delivery,” the governor stated.
The MoU outlines a framework for collaboration, with specific project agreements to be developed on a case-by-case basis.
Governor Mohammed emphasized that the agreement aligns with the bilateral framework established between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, aimed at strengthening ties between the two nations at both national and subnational levels.
“This agreement is not just about infrastructure—it’s about transforming lives. We are opening Bauchi to the world,” he said, adding that the partnership is expected to attract foreign direct investment, create jobs, develop skills, and boost Bauchi’s global profile.
In his remarks, Li Zhensheng, who also serves as Chairman of the China Global Promotion Cooperation Research Centre, pledged the Centre’s full commitment to mobilising global expertise and resources to support Bauchi’s economic transformation.
“We are committed to helping Bauchi achieve sustainable growth, modern infrastructure, and improved livelihoods,” Zhensheng said.
