Asaba set for landmark event as Newton Jibunoh International Convention Centre opens June 17

Delta State will witness a major milestone in tourism, culture, environmental advocacy and conference tourism on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, as the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort officially opens the Newton Jibunoh International Convention Centre (NJICC) in Asaba.

The world-class facility, located within the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort at the Asaba International Airport complex, is designed to host international conferences, corporate meetings, cultural exhibitions, policy dialogues, institutional gatherings and educational events.

According to organisers, the opening ceremony will commence at noon and will be attended by prominent dignitaries, including Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; the Asagba of Asaba, Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN, OON); and the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero (CFR, CNOL, JP). The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, is also expected at the event.

The convention centre is named after renowned Nigerian environmentalist, explorer and philanthropist Dr. Newton Jibunoh, whose decades-long advocacy for environmental sustainability and desertification control have earned international recognition.

Organisers said the facility features a state-of-the-art auditorium, a documentary and exhibition gallery, a library and a museum, all designed to combine modern architecture with African cultural heritage.

As part of the inauguration activities, the Emir of Kano will unveil the Ado Bayero Gallery, while the Asagba of Asaba will unveil the convention centre’s main hall.

Other highlights of the event include the premiere of a documentary on Dr. Jibunoh’s life and work, an art auction, mural unveiling, book presentations, spoken-word performances and cultural displays.

Speaking ahead of the opening, Dr. Jibunoh described the convention centre as a symbol of Africa’s potential and commitment to preserving its heritage.

“The Newton Jibunoh International Convention Centre is more than a building. It is a statement—that Africa can lead, that our heritage deserves a world-class home, and that the work of environmental advocacy, cultural preservation and community development must continue for generations to come,” he said.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading environmental advocates, Dr. Jibunoh is the founder of FADE Africa and DIDI Museum, Nigeria’s first privately owned museum. He has represented Nigeria at major international climate conferences, including meetings held in Bangkok, Copenhagen and Cancun.

He is also the author of several books, including Me, My Desert and I, which chronicles his experiences crossing the Sahara Desert; Bridging the Sahara Desert: A Different Perspective; Hunger for Power; and How Little We Are: A Collection of Thoughts.

Organisers noted that the choice of June 17 for the inauguration was deliberate, as it coincides with the United Nations’ World Desertification and Drought Day, a cause closely associated with Dr. Jibunoh’s lifelong environmental campaigns.

This year’s global theme, “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore,” aligns with the mission of FADE Africa and the broader vision behind the convention centre, according to the organisers.

A review of Me, My Desert and I will also form part of the programme, highlighting Dr. Jibunoh’s experiences and contributions to environmental awareness across Africa.

The Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort said the NJICC is envisioned as a leading centre for environmental advocacy, research, policy engagement, education and the arts, while serving as a lasting legacy dedicated to sustainable development on the continent.

Founded by Dr. Jibunoh and named after South African anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, the Nelson Mandela Gardens & Resort has become one of Delta State’s notable tourism destinations, offering hospitality, recreation, cultural engagement and conservation initiatives within the Asaba International Airport complex.