Abuja:The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has successfully completed and commissioned more than 21 infrastructure projects, including bridges, roads, and mega schools, over the past two years.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Ahmadu, revealed that these projects are strategically spread across the states of Taraba, Bauchi, Adamawa, Gombe, Borno, and Yobe. The aim of these developments is to address significant infrastructure gaps and to stimulate development in areas affected by insecurity.
Ahmadu highlighted the construction of major bridges, some featuring as many as seven to nine spans, which are larger than typical culverts. Notably, bridges around Bara and Duku have improved connectivity between communities in Gombe, Bauchi, and Adamawa.
In the education sector, the Ari Kime School project in Yobe was noted for integrating primary and secondary education within a secure environment, ensuring the safety of pupils in areas prone to insecurity. The school features eight blocks of two-storey classrooms, along with staff quarters, a clinic, and recreational facilities, accommodating up to 14,000 pupils.
Ahmadu also mentioned that similar educational projects have been implemented in other areas, with designs tailored to local requirements and student populations. Additionally, the NEDC has developed lecture theatres and other educational facilities at universities in Yobe, Borno, and Taraba.
The commission’s efforts extend to mega water projects, encompassing industrial boreholes and large steel water reservoirs, along with healthcare infrastructure and human capacity development to cater to specific community needs.
Ahmadu pointed out that the ministry collaborates with state governments to identify areas requiring federal assistance that exceed the capacities of individual states. However, he identified misinformation and a lack of public awareness as significant challenges, urging journalists to accurately report on government activities and interventions.
On the topic of funding, Ahmadu stated that the ministry relies on the regular budgetary process, while development commissions receive allocations through first-line charges. He called for increased funding to enhance the commissions’ capabilities to deliver more projects, stressing that current resources are being used effectively.