FG inaugurates governing boards for South East, North West Development Commissions

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Government has inaugurated the governing boards of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) and the North West Development Commission (NWDC), marking a significant step toward regional development and economic transformation.

Speaking at the event in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh emphasized that the commissions were established to address regional disparities, foster economic growth, and improve the quality of life for Nigerians in these regions.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his foresight in creating the regional development commissions and swiftly assenting to the bills after their passage by the National Assembly. He also praised the legislature for expediting the process.

The minister urged the newly inaugurated boards to align their programs with the key priorities of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which include:

• Reforming the economy for sustained, inclusive growth
• Strengthening national security for peace and prosperity
• Boosting agriculture to achieve food security
• Unlocking energy and natural resources for sustainable development
• Enhancing infrastructure and transportation
• Focusing on education, health, and social investment
• Accelerating industrialization, digitization, and creative arts
• Improving governance for effective service delivery

He highlighted infrastructure development, economic diversification, job creation, security, and human capital development as priority areas, stressing the need for projects that would directly benefit the people.

Engr. Momoh noted the specific challenges facing both regions and urged the commissions to tailor their interventions accordingly:

• South East: Focus on revitalizing infrastructure, industrialization, trade, and commerce, particularly in manufacturing and technology.
• North West: Improve agricultural productivity, enhance security, reduce the number of out-of-school children, and create opportunities for youth and women.

He also warned about the devastating effects of climate change and urged the commissions to integrate environmental sustainability into their projects.

The minister stressed the need for financial prudence, transparency, and accountability, warning that any mismanagement or abuse of office would attract severe sanctions.

“You must adhere strictly to due process and comply with financial regulations, including the Public Procurement Act. Every contract above the board’s threshold must be referred to the ministry or the Federal Executive Council,” he stated.

Engr. Momoh assured the commissions of the Ministry of Regional Development’s full support and announced plans for a retreat for board members to strengthen their understanding of their mandates.

He called on the commissions to foster strong partnerships with state governments, the private sector, and development partners to maximize resources and expertise.

“To the people of the South East and North West, I assure you that the ministry will closely monitor the activities of these commissions. We will not hesitate to take action against mismanagement,” he declared.

The minister concluded by charging the newly inaugurated boards to see their appointments as a call to service, pledging that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that no part of the country is left behind in national development.