The Bauchi State Government has said that its N3.4 billion investment in infrastructure at the Yankari Game Reserve will upgrade the Revenue Generated Income (IGR), create new employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities among communities around the tourist destination.
Governor Bala Mohammed stated this on Tuesday during the commissioning of solar power infrastructure, renovated chalets and improved water facilities at the reserve.
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Muhammad Auwal Jatau, the governor said the projects were aimed not only at improving facilities for tourists but also at creating opportunities for young people and local businesses.
The solar electrification project alone cost N2.69 billion, while N166 million was spent on upgrading chalets and executive suites. Another N110 million was allocated for improved water supply and reticulation.
Mohammed said the intervention would benefit hotel operators, restaurants, transporters, tour guides, artisans and farmers operating within communities around Yankari.
He noted that the total project cost rose from N2.98 billion to N3.43 billion because of inflation, adding that the state government provided an additional N449.9 million after the initial funding from the Federal Government’s Natural Resources Fund.
According to him, the administration is determined to make Yankari a stronger economic asset for Bauchi by improving infrastructure and creating an environment capable of attracting more tourists and investors.
The governor also called on host communities to take ownership of the facilities and assured them of continued government collaboration with security agencies to protect the reserve and its access routes.
