In a commendable move, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently approved the establishment of the Northwest Development Commission (NWDC), led by its Managing Director Professor Abdullahi Ma’aji. This decision demonstrates a significant stride towards addressing the longstanding socioeconomic issues that have plagued the North-west zone of Nigeria, which comprises Kano, Kaduna, Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina states. The establishment of the NWDC is not only milestone but also a commitment by the federal government to support and rebuild the North-west, particularly in the face of insecurity, poverty, and infrastructural decay.
As the saying goes, “If a tree refuses to shelter a bird, the bird will be sheltered through divine providence.” This proverb speaks to the resilience of people who find hope even when initial support is withheld. The establishment of the NWDC is reminiscent of when Kano state sought to be included in the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) in the wake of the tragic bomb blast of November 28, 2014. Kano, having suffered significant losses and hosting an influx of refugees from insurgent-hit areas, hoped to receive support alongside Northeast states. However, resistance from some Northeastern stakeholders delayed this integration. Now, the entire North-west will have its own commission, a monumental achievement and a timely intervention.
The creation of the NWDC is especially important as it addresses a spectrum of challenges faced by the zone, which has been ravaged by insecurity, especially banditry and kidnapping. These issues have displaced thousands of families, disrupted communities, and stunted economic activities, particularly in the agriculture sector. Agriculture, the backbone of the North-west economy, has been severely impacted as farmers abandon their lands in fear of attacks, resulting in a decline in food production and posing a threat to the nation’s food security.
Furthermore, 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. The North-west Development Commission aims to tackle this crisis head on, with a focus on restoring educational infrastructure, ensuring access to learning, and creating safe environments for children.
In addition to resettling and rehabilitating those affected by violence, the NWDC is poised to tackle infrastructural deficits across the zone. With roads, houses, and business premises destroyed or abandoned, there is an urgent need to rebuild and revitalise these communities. The commission will work towards reconstructing roads, providing homes for displaced families, and restoring business environments to foster economic activity and create job opportunities for the local population.
The NWDC’s focus on economic growth is also essential, as the North-west 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 zone.
Another crucial area the NWDC will address is ecological challenges. The North-west is frequently affected by environmental issues, including desertification, deforestation, and seasonal flooding. These challenges worsen the socioeconomic vulnerabilities of communities, making them more susceptible to displacement and economic hardship. Through environmental conservation initiatives, the NWDC will address these ecological problems and work towards sustainable development.
The North-west zone also faces healthcare challenges, with limited access to quality medical services in many rural areas. Insecurity has worsened this situation, as many healthcare centers have been abandoned, and personnel are reluctant to work in high risk areas. By focusing on healthcare infrastructure, the NWDC can improve health outcomes, reduce mortality rates, and ensure communities have access to essential medical services.
The Tinubu administration’s decision to establish the NWDC underscores its dedication to uniting Nigeria and fostering equity. It ensures that development is not confined to certain regions but rather distributed across the country, helping all Nigerians benefit from the nation’s resources. The NWDC’s activities will play a critical role in restoring hope and ensuring stability, security, and development for the North-west zone.
In addition to its primary mandate, the NWDC is expected to collaborate with other development commissions across Nigeria, sharing resources and expertise. This collaborative approach will foster synergy in addressing common issues and challenges, enabling better solutions and faster development outcomes across the country.
The positive impact of the NWDC extends beyond the North-west. By curbing the security challenges in the zone, the commission will also contribute to national security, as a secure North-west translates to a safer Nigeria. As communities are resettled and rehabilitated, displaced persons are empowered to lead productive lives, reducing the pressure on urban areas and enhancing stability across the nation.
For the President Tinubu administration, the establishment of the NWDC is a testament to its visionary leadership and determination to address Nigeria’s developmental challenges inclusively. The administration’s commitment to the North-west reflects its dedication to bringing hope and opportunity to all Nigerians, regardless of their location or circumstances.
The creation of the North-west Development Commission marks a new era of development, security, and prosperity for the zone. This doesn’t go without acknowledging the profound and timely contribution of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibril, who stood firmly to ensure the actualisation of this important milestone. It is a clear indication that, even amidst challenges, Nigeria can rise and thrive. The NWDC’s mission aligns with the dreams of Nigerians who yearn for a united, prosperous nation. President Tinubu has given the North-west the tree of shelter it once sought, a gesture that will resonate for generations to come.