The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called for urgent and coordinated efforts to tackle insecurity and poverty in the North-West geo-political zone.
Speaking on Wednesday at the inauguration of the House Committee on the North-West Development Commission at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, Abbas said, “For too long, the North-West has faced systemic neglect, worsening insecurity, and economic decline. The time for half-measures is over. This commission must be the catalyst for real, measurable change.”
He decried the impact of banditry and rural violence on agriculture, displacement, and education, stating, “Banditry and rural violence have crippled agricultural production, driven thousands from their homes, and forced children out of school. These are not abstract problems—they are existential threats to the region’s survival.”
Abbas commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritising regional development through policies such as the National Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy and the National Livestock Transformation Plan.
He noted, “The establishment of a Ministry for Regional Development and the President’s swift assent to the Regional Development Bills are clear indications of his resolve to address these challenges. Now, it is time for this Commission to translate policy into action.”
He urged the newly inaugurated committee to ensure the NWDC delivers on its mandate, warning against political interference and mismanagement.
“A prosperous North-West means a stronger Nigeria. This is a call to action, not just for the Commission but for all stakeholders—state governments, traditional rulers, civil society, and the private sector. We must act now, before the situation worsens,” he stressed.
Chairman of the House Committee on the North-West Development Commission, Sulaiman Gumi, pledged commitment to addressing the region’s challenges, stating, “This is not just the inauguration of a committee; it is a day filled with hope and renewed determination.”
Gumi emphasised the need for action, saying, “For too long, our people have endured hardship, yet remained resilient. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter—one where we take decisive action to transform the North-West.”
He outlined the committee’s priorities, including monitoring and coordinating NWDC activities, engaging with development partners, and collaborating with the private sector to drive rehabilitation and resettlement across the region.
“The establishment of the NWDC is a monumental step toward addressing the underlying causes of insecurity and socio-economic challenges in the North-West,” he said.
He vowed that the commission would not become another failed intervention, stating, “We bear a sacred duty to ensure that this commission does not become another failed intervention but rather a model of efficiency, accountability, and impact.”
Gumi also stressed the importance of leadership integrity, adding, “The success of the NWDC depends on appointing leaders of integrity, competence, and innovation to steer its activities.”
To ensure effectiveness, he said the committee would conduct oversight visits to NWDC projects, ensuring budgetary alignment with regional development goals.
“Our oversight will be rigorous, ensuring that every naira allocated translates into real benefits for our people,” Gumi assured.
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