Tinubu inaugurates North-West development commission, harps on bridging gaps

In a historic effort to drive equitable progress and bridge regional gaps, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR inaugurated the governing board of the newly created North West Development Commission (NWDC) today in Abuja. The landmark event underscores the federal government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and sustainable development in the region.

Addressing attendees, Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh FNSE, hailed the commission as “pivotal instrument for unlocking the cultural, economic, and human potential of the zone.” He lauded President Tinubu’s foresight and the National Assembly’s expedited legislative backing, emphasizing that the bodies will “tackle inequality, spur economic advancement, and elevate living standards.” Momoh further called for synergy with state governments, private enterprises, and international partners, pledging rigorous oversight to ensure accountability.

Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmadu, aligned the commission with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting the commission’s role in “launching strategic infrastructure to stimulate prosperity and improve citizen welfare.”

Senate Committee leaders echoed support for the initiative. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (SEDC Committee Chairman) urged innovative solutions, stating, “Priorities must shift to railways, power plants, and job-creating industries—not just roads” while Senator Babagida Husseini (NWDC Committee Chairman) vowed stringent fiscal oversight, promising to “track every naira for maximum public benefit.”

The NWDC Chairman, Lawal Samaila Abdullahi, stressed cross-regional partnerships to harmonize development efforts while the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji of the North-West Development Commission vowed to deliver tangible results. Ma’aji outlined plans to leverage the North-West’s resources for infrastructure upgrades and improved livelihoods.

The event closed with a unified resolve to prioritize transparency, innovation, and results-driven governance, marking a new chapter in Nigeria’s regional development agenda.