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Tinubu Directs Timely Funding for Regional Commissions, Warns Against Waste
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the timely release of funds due to Nigeria’s Regional Development Commissions while warning their boards and ...
By Wavers News
The President gave the directive on Monday in Abuja while declaring open the first North Central Stakeholders Development Summit organised by the North Central Development Commission (NCDC).
Tinubu, who was represented at the event by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said the Federal Government would continue to provide political and financial support to the commissions to enable them implement projects capable of unlocking the economic potential of their respective regions.
Tinubu Orders Release of Funds
The President directed the SGF to ensure that funds accruable to the Regional Development Commissions are released as and when due.
He said the commissions were established to address longstanding development gaps and accelerate development across the country under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
However, Tinubu stressed that the commissions should not depend entirely on government funding.
He encouraged them to explore other legitimate sources of financing, including public-private partnerships, donor support and development financing, particularly for major projects capable of creating lasting economic impact.
Focus on Projects That Benefit Nigerians
Tinubu said the commissions must concentrate on development priorities that can unlock the potential of their regions while improving connectivity and economic activity across the country.
Among the areas identified for attention are roads, rail transportation, aviation, industrialisation, security, investment, education, healthcare and human capital development.
He also warned against projects that are unnecessarily expensive, impractical or disconnected from the needs of the people.
The President said the commissions must develop clear, achievable and properly funded programmes rather than embark on projects that could become a drain on public resources.
Warning Against Corruption and Politicisation
Tinubu further warned the boards and managements of the commissions against corruption, marginalisation, politicisation and ethnicisation of government operations.
He said anyone found culpable would face sanctions.
The President also directed the Ministry of Regional Development to ensure that the commissions operate within the framework of the Regional Development Policy Document, while the National Assembly is expected to provide the necessary oversight.
North Central Development Plan
The directive came as the North Central Development Commission presented plans for long-term development of the region.
The North Central region comprises Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau and the Federal Capital Territory.
Officials at the summit highlighted the region’s potential in agriculture, agro-processing, solid minerals, infrastructure and industrial development, while also pointing to challenges including insecurity and infrastructure deficits.
The Federal Government said the long-term objective is for regional development commissions to help turn these opportunities into practical projects, investment, jobs and improved living conditions.
Tinubu also stressed that the commissions were not created to replace or duplicate the responsibilities of federal, state or local governments, but to help close development gaps that have persisted over the years.
What This Means
The President’s directive places greater emphasis on measurable results from the Regional Development Commissions, with funding expected to be matched by projects that have clear economic and social benefits.
The commissions will also be expected to attract private and development financing while maintaining accountability in the use of public funds.