The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called for coordinated efforts to address the increasing insecurity and poverty in the North-West geo-political zone. Speaking at the inauguration of the House Committee on the North-West Development Commission (NWDC) on Wednesday, Abbas stressed the urgent need for real, measurable change, citing systemic neglect, worsening insecurity, and economic decline in the region.
“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,” Abbas said, acknowledging the serious impacts of banditry and rural violence. He highlighted how these challenges have crippled agriculture, displaced thousands, and forced children out of school, calling these issues “existential threats to the region’s survival.”
The Speaker commended President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing regional development, particularly through initiatives like the National Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy and the National Livestock Transformation Plan. He also pointed to the establishment of the Ministry for Regional Development and the swift passage of the Regional Development Bills as a sign of the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges.
Abbas emphasized that the NWDC must translate policy into action, warning against political interference and mismanagement. “A prosperous North-West means a stronger Nigeria,” he said, calling on all stakeholders—including state governments, traditional rulers, civil society, and the private sector—to work together. “We must act now, before the situation worsens,” he added.
The Chairman of the House Committee on the North-West Development Commission, Sulaiman Gumi, echoed Abbas’ sentiments, vowing to address the region’s challenges. “This is not just the inauguration of a committee; it is a day filled with hope and renewed determination,” Gumi said, stressing the need for decisive action to transform the North-West.
He outlined the committee’s priorities, including overseeing the activities of the NWDC, engaging with development partners, and collaborating with the private sector to drive rehabilitation and resettlement across the region. Gumi underscored the importance of leadership integrity and vowed to ensure that the NWDC does not become another failed intervention. He promised that the committee would rigorously monitor projects to ensure that budgetary allocations translate into tangible benefits for the people.
“Our oversight will be rigorous, ensuring that every naira allocated translates into real benefits for our people,” Gumi assured. The committee’s focus will be on ensuring accountability, efficiency, and impact in the region’s development efforts.
