Newly Established Commission Set to Unlock Economic and Infrastructure Potential

By Faisal A Harande

Abuja, Nigeria | February 11, 2025 In a bold move to accelerate development and bridge economic disparities, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has officially inaugurated the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) Governing Board. The commission is tasked with driving sustainable growth, fostering regional stability, and enhancing infrastructure across the North-West geopolitical zone.

The high-profile inauguration, held in Abuja, signifies the federal government’s renewed commitment to regional development and economic empowerment. The event brought together key stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly, state governments, and industry leaders, all united in their resolve to reposition the North-West as an economic powerhouse.

A New Dawn for Regional Development

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, FNSE, described the NWDC as a game-changer for the North-West. He emphasized that the commission will serve as a catalyst for unlocking economic, cultural, and human capital potential while addressing key challenges such as infrastructure deficits, unemployment, and economic inequality.

“This commission is a pivotal instrument for transforming the North-West region. President Tinubu’s foresight, alongside the National Assembly’s legislative backing, ensures that we have the right framework to spur economic advancement and uplift millions of lives,” Momoh stated.

He further called for strong partnerships with state governments, private sector stakeholders, and international investors, stressing that transparency, accountability, and efficiency would be the guiding principles of the NWDC.

Aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda

Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmadu, reaffirmed the NWDC’s alignment with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that the commission will focus on launching large-scale infrastructure projects to stimulate prosperity and improve the welfare of citizens.

“We are building the future of the North-West with strategic investments in roads, railways, energy, agriculture, and industrial hubs. Our approach will be holistic, ensuring that every intervention translates into meaningful impact,” Ahmadu said.

Legislative Support and Fiscal Oversight

Key members of the National Assembly voiced their commitment to ensuring the NWDC operates effectively.

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Regional Development (SEDC), called for innovative, high-impact projects beyond traditional infrastructure. “Priorities must shift towards power plants, railways, and industries that create jobs—not just roads,” he emphasized.

Senator Babagida Husseini, Chairman of the NWDC Oversight Committee, promised strict financial accountability. “We will track every naira spent to guarantee maximum public benefit. There is no room for mismanagement,” he assured.

Leadership’s Commitment to Action

Lawal Samaila Abdullahi, the NWDC Chairman, pledged to strengthen inter-regional collaborations, ensuring that development efforts align with national priorities.

Meanwhile, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji, vowed to deliver measurable results, outlining strategic plans to leverage the region’s abundant resources for infrastructure development, industrial growth, and social welfare improvements.

A Future Built on Transparency, Innovation, and Results

The event concluded with a unified commitment to good governance, innovative policies, and transparency, marking a turning point in Nigeria’s regional development strategy.

With the North-West Development Commission now fully operational, stakeholders are optimistic that the region will witness unprecedented economic transformation, bridging developmental gaps and unlocking it.

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