THE EXECUTIVE Chairman, Nigerian Capital Development Fund (NCDF) Group, Hareter Babatunde Oralusi, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Senate for their foresight in establishing the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and Regional Development Commissions.
In a statement signed by NCDF’s Executive Director, Mr. Tajudeen Kareem, and made available to newsmen on Friday, Oralusi said the new ministry and the commissions will reinforce “the administration’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development at the grassroots level, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.”
He is alos quoted to have noted: “This is another remarkable step in the right direction, and one that promises lasting, impactful change. The establishment of regional development commissions complements the critical Local Government Autonomy framework, creating a comprehensive structure that enables local, state, and federal governments to collaboratively support grassroots development.”
The NCDF Chairman praised the creation of these regional development bodies as essential for bridging long-standing gaps in infrastructure and social services across the country. “This decision to decentralize development functions reflects a forward-thinking approach to governance, empowering local communities while ensuring the equitable distribution of resources,” he emphasised.
He further explained that when local governments are empowered by enabling law and supporting structures, they will gradually become the drivers of grassroots development and catalysts for poverty eradication.
“Nigeria is on a promising path toward deeper federalism that involves every level of government in delivering sustainable development,” he remarked.
Oralusi noted that the emerging national structure will drive more resources to the sub-national level, enhance social services, and critical infrastructure improvements across Nigeria’s communities.
He described the decision of President Tinubu as “a pro-poor initiative that demonstrates the government’s prioritization of poverty alleviation, inclusive economic growth, and the overall wellbeing of its people. This setup will also encourage robust private sector participation and empower non-governmental organizations to invest in projects that truly benefit the masses.”
Oralusi also expressed optimism in Nigeria’s future, urging Nigerians to stay hopeful while asking the Senate to expedite the passage of comprehensive local government autonomy legislation. “A truly autonomous local government system is the bedrock of grassroots democracy. By advancing this bill, the Senate can solidify a governance framework that ensures every Nigerian feels the impact of national progress.”
As an organisation committed to socio-economic transformation, NCDF pledges its support to work with all tiers of government to drive impactful development at the grassroots. “We are ready to collaborate with these new commissions, investing in initiatives that uplift Nigeria’s underserved regions,” Kareem said.
