Dr. Bala Maijama'a Wunti, CEO of the World Energy Council Nigeria, has commenced the construction of a multimillion-naira indoor sports hall at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Bauchi. The project, known as the Bala Wunti Arena, aims to provide the university with a modern facility for sporting activities, academic programmes, and major events. The arena is expected to be completed within 50 weeks.
The Bala Wunti Arena is a philanthropic initiative by Dr. Wunti, who described it as his modest contribution to the university that provided the foundation for his professional career. He expressed confidence that investments in modern infrastructure would strengthen ATBU and other Nigerian universities, enabling them to compete globally. The project is expected to stimulate local businesses, support economic activities, and create employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
The construction materials for the project will be sourced locally, which is expected to boost the local economy. Dr. Wunti commended the management of ATBU, the assessment panel, and students who participated in the design competition. He described the initiative as a "Project for ATBU by ATBU," emphasizing that students should contribute their ideas, skills, and creativity towards shaping their institutions.
The vice-chancellor of ATBU, Prof. Ibrahim Hassan, commended Dr. Bala Maijama'a Wunti for his philanthropic support to the university. Hassan described the initiative as a significant contribution to the institution, expressing appreciation for the investment in infrastructure, creativity, and student development. The project is seen as a boost to the university's development and growth.
The Bala Wunti Support Organisation (BWSO) also commended Dr. Wunti for funding the project, describing it as another demonstration of his commitment to impactful development. The chief executive officer of BWSO, Malam Mukhtar Ahmed Jarmajo, expressed confidence that the project would be delivered within the stipulated 50-week timeline, given Dr. Wunti's track record.
A design competition was held for the project, with W-Nexus emerging as the winner and receiving a N5 million cash prize. Spartial Mind, the first runner-up, received N4 million, while Spartial Nexus, the second runner-up, received N3 million. Other participating groups were awarded N1 million each. The assessment panel received N3 million in recognition of its role in evaluating the students' submissions.
The programme manager of Wunti Alkhair Foundation, Mustapha Ango, announced the winners of the design competition at a ceremony. The Bala Wunti Arena is expected to have a positive impact on the university community, providing a modern facility for various activities and events. The project is a significant investment in the development of ATBU and Nigerian universities.
Key points
- The project is expected to be completed within 50 weeks and will accommodate 10,000 people.
- The construction materials for the project will be sourced locally, boosting the local economy.
- The initiative aims to provide the university with a modern, year-round facility for sporting activities, academic programmes, and major events.
