The Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), Sonny Echono, on Thursday inaugurated a state-of-the-art international conference centre at Bayero University, Kano.

During the commissioning ceremony held at the university’s new campus, Echono revealed that the facility, which had been left incomplete for several years, was finally completed in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. He emphasized that the project supports national development, enhances global competitiveness, and promotes financial autonomy for higher institutions.

“He wants us to upgrade our institutions to global standards. With modern facilities like this, which can stand alongside any worldwide, we are indeed raising the bar,” Echono stated.

He explained that in the past two years, TETFund introduced a new intervention strategy to tackle abandoned and distressed projects, which has resulted in the successful completion of several straightforward initiatives.

Echono described the new centre as a significant development that will host numerous activities, generate revenue, and enhance the university’s architectural aesthetics. He said it would also offer a conducive space for research and academic advancement.

“This facility will serve as a magnet for high-level conferences, helping to generate income and increase the university's visibility,” he added.

He assured the university’s current management of continued collaboration and urged them to ensure the facility is properly maintained and fully utilized.

In his welcome remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Adamu Abbas, expressed gratitude to TETFund for funding the long-awaited project. He noted that the facility meets the requirements of a modern international conference centre and includes over 38 accommodation rooms, event halls, and open areas.

He also acknowledged that the idea for the centre was initiated by a former Vice Chancellor, Professor Abubakar Rasheed, over 15 years ago, and encouraged the incoming administration to adopt policies that preserve the original purpose of the project.