Our reporter
The Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh FNSE, officially inaugurated the governing boards of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and the North West Development Commission (NWDC) on Monday, marking a significant step towards addressing regional imbalances and fostering equitable economic growth across Nigeria.
In a ceremony held in Abuja, Engr. Momoh expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in the creation of these commissions, which aim to drive sustainable development in the South East and North West regions. He also commended the National Assembly for its swift passage of the enabling legislation, which paved the way for the establishment of the commissions.
The Minister highlighted the importance of these commissions as vital tools in the Federal Government’s broader regional development agenda, aimed at tackling key challenges such as infrastructure deficits, economic underdevelopment, and security concerns in both regions. He further reiterated that the commissions must align with the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” focusing on initiatives such as infrastructure development, job creation, economic diversification, and human capital development, alongside pressing issues like climate change mitigation.
“The South East faces challenges like erosion, while the North West is contending with desertification,” said Engr. Momoh. “It is critical that we address these environmental concerns alongside other developmental needs, to ensure a resilient and prosperous future for these regions.”
During the event, Dr. Emeka Nworgu was appointed Chairman of the SEDC, with Hon. Mark C. Okoye named as its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. For the NWDC, Alhaji Lawal Samai’la Abdullahi will serve as Chairman, while Professor Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji assumes the role of Managing Director/CEO. The Minister emphasized that these appointments reflect the government’s commitment to placing experienced professionals at the helm of the commissions.
The South East Development Commission is expected to focus on revitalising critical infrastructure, stimulating industrial growth, and promoting regional trade. With a strong entrepreneurial culture, the region is poised to become a hub for manufacturing and technological innovation. Meanwhile, the North West Commission will prioritise enhancing agricultural productivity, improving security, and addressing the educational needs of youth, with a particular focus on reducing the number of out-of-school children and reviving the once-thriving agricultural sector, including the restoration of the groundnut pyramids.
Emphasising the importance of transparency and financial accountability, Engr. Momoh urged the board members to ensure that all funds are managed prudently. He reminded them that any contracts exceeding their approval thresholds must be referred to the Ministry and the Federal Executive Council in accordance with the Public Procurement Act.
The inauguration also saw the announcement of plans for a retreat, designed to equip the newly appointed board members with the necessary tools and knowledge to execute their mandates effectively. Engr. Momoh assured them of the Ministry’s full support, promising that close oversight would ensure the success of the commissions.
With expectations running high, the SEDC and NWDC are poised to play pivotal roles in transforming the economic landscapes of their respective regions, contributing to Nigeria’s broader goals of inclusive and sustainable growth.
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the commissions operate with transparency and efficiency, marking the launch of what is expected to be a major turning point for regional development in Nigeria.
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