Abuja: The Minister of Regional Development, Dr. Abubakar Momoh, announced that the seven regional development commissions will work closely with state governments to address insecurity and enhance infrastructure development across the nation. This announcement followed a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where commission Chairmen and Managing Directors discussed progress, challenges, and future plans with the President.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Momoh informed State House correspondents of the delegation’s presentation to the President, which included their achievements and obstacles faced. The President responded positively, assuring his continued support and encouraging further collaboration to efficiently meet development objectives.
Dr. Momoh emphasized that the commissions would partner with governors to complement federal and state efforts in addressing insecurity and advancing key infrastructure initiatives in their respective regions. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with state governments to address local security issues and support existing structures to enhance regional stability.
The Minister noted that deteriorating road networks have long been a concern, expressing optimism that joint maintenance and rehabilitation efforts by state governments and development commissions would significantly alleviate this problem. He suggested that consistent road maintenance by state governments, coupled with rehabilitation support from development commissions, would improve business, social services, and secure transportation.
Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, described the commissions as the administration’s ‘surest tool’ to tackle Nigeria’s development challenges in sectors such as education, energy, water, and agriculture. He assured Nigerians that the commissions, led by experienced professionals, are strategically positioned to execute renewable energy, agriculture, water, and infrastructure projects that bring tangible improvements to local communities.
Mohammed Goni Alkali, Managing Director of the North-East Development Commission (NEDC), shared that the NEDC is implementing a four-phase master plan focusing on security, sustainability, and infrastructure in insurgency-affected areas. Currently in phase three, the NEDC has constructed fourteen bridges and approximately eighteen roads, facilitating economic and social recovery in the region.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), reported that peace in the Niger Delta is improving due to development projects that address the real needs of host communities. He highlighted the NDDC’s ‘Operation Light Up the Niger Delta,’ which has restored security in previously unsafe areas by providing lighting and essential infrastructure, boosting community safety and engagement.
Dr. Ogbuku emphasized the importance of planning projects in partnership with communities and stakeholders to ensure local participation, accountability, and sustainable development outcomes across the Niger Delta.