THE ESTABLISHMENT of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) is not only a historic milestone but also an act of commitment from the federal government to support and rebuild the North West, particularly in the face of insecurity, poverty and infrastructural decay. The region, spanning seven states (Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara) across approximately 216,065 square kilometres, faces significant challenges
Despite its vast untapped mineral resources, the Northwest Region remains paradoxically impoverished, with around 80% of its population relying on subsistence farming, pastoralism, or small-scale entrepreneurship for survival. Once a thriving hub of peace, commerce, and agriculture, the region has been severely impacted by insecurity, affecting five of its seven states. This destabilizing shift has transformed the area from a prosperous centre of trade to one beset by safety concerns and uncertainty.
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For nearly a decade, the Northwest region has been plagued by increasingly violent criminal gangs, perpetrating mass abductions, farm seizures, and widespread internal displacement, fuelling growing instability that affects millions. However, the establishment of the North West Development Commission heralds a new era, poised to restore the region’s lost glory of development, security, and prosperity.
Tasks Before NWDC: The Northwest Development Commission (NWDC) must remain resolute and focused on its core objectives, unwavering in its commitment to addressing the region’s challenges. The Commission objectives include: Promoting economic development, improving infrastructure, Enhancing social services (education, healthcare)
Others are fostering regional collaboration, addressing security challenges, encouraging investment and reducing poverty and inequality
Strict adherence to these objectives will undoubtedly enhance the lives of citizens in the Northwest region. To address these issues, the Northwest Development Commission (NWDC) must collaborate with stakeholders to enhance safety and stability. Foster economic growth through agriculture, commerce, and infrastructure development.
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Improve access to education, healthcare, and social welfare programs. By tackling these challenges, Insecurity has deprived numerous children of their right to education. Many families, fearing for their lives, have abandoned their homes and livelihoods. Schools in affected areas have been forced to close, leaving an entire generation at risk of losing access to quality education and, consequently, the opportunity for a better future.
NWDC can help revitalize the region and improve the lives of its citizens. The NWDC’s focus on economic growth is also essential, as the Northwest has immense potential to contribute to Nigeria’s economy, particularly in agriculture, trade, and livestock rearing. By investing in these sectors and creating economic opportunities, the NWDC will support the resilience and productivity of local communities. This will not only revive economic activities but also mitigate poverty and improve living standards across the region.
The NWDC’s success will depend on addressing regional challenges and achieving its development goals. I am delighted to learn that the commission developed a comprehensive 10-year master plan aimed at driving integrated growth across the North-West. The creation of NWDC doesn’t go without acknowledging the profound and timely contribution of the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibril, who stood firmly to ensure the actualisation of this important milestone.
There is a pressing need for NWDC to hold public town hall stakeholder meetings across the seven states. This will enable the commission to gain a deeper understanding of the needs and concerns of ordinary citizens in the region.
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Media enlightenment for NWDC could involve: public awareness campaigns, information dissemination on NWDC’s objectives and initiatives. Other community outreach programs, collaborations with local media outlets and new media engagement. This would help educate citizens about NWDC’s goals, progress, and impact, fostering transparency and trust.
Recently, the NWDC paid a courtesy visit to the governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, at the Government House in Kaduna. During the visit, Prof. Ma’aji highlighted the Commission’s priority areas. He emphasized NWDC’s commitment to collaborating with state governments to drive measurable progress in these key sectors.
The NWDC’s success will depend on addressing regional challenges and achieving its development goals. I am delighted to learn that the commission developed a comprehensive 10-year master plan aimed at driving integrated growth across the North-West. The creation of NWDC doesn’t go without acknowledging the profound and timely contribution of the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibril, who stood firmly to ensure the actualisation of this important milestone.
Dukawa write in from Abuja can be reached at abbahydukawa@gmail.com
