In a bid to usher in a new era of progress and prosperity, the Northeast Development Commission, NEDC,has unveiled an ambitious master plan designed to reshape the landscape of the Northeast region of Nigeria.
The comprehensive blueprint, unveiled amidst great anticipation, outlines a strategic roadmap for development across various sectors in the long-struggling region.
Chairman of the NEDC board, Gen. Paul Tafa (rtd) who was briefing journalists in Abuja on Friday, said, ‘the commission has embarked on an extensive consultation process, engaging stakeholders at all levels to ensure the master plan reflects the needs and aspirations of the Northeast communities.”
In addition to ongoing food distribution efforts, General Tafa highlighted the organization’s commitment to completing various projects aimed at fostering development and stability in the region. These projects focus on improving the lives and welfare of women and residents in the North East.
The commission also plans to implement projects to uplift the region, including the provision of e-mobility/transportation services and initiatives to address unemployment by creating both direct and indirect job opportunities.
General Tafa outlined plans for the timely completion of six road projects across Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states, with an expected completion date set for December. These infrastructure projects aim to promote stability in the region.
He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to the socio-economic advancement of the North East region and sought continued support from the public and media to achieve its objectives.
He said, “With input gathered from local governments, Senatorial districts, and constituencies, the document represents a bottom-up approach to development, tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the region.
“The master plan comprises eleven pillars, each focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and entrepreneurship. These pillars serve as the foundation upon which the NEDC’s transformative agenda will be built, with 529 programs and projects identified for implementation over the next decade.
“One of the central pillars of the master plan is the revitalization of the region’s fishing industry, aimed at restoring livelihoods and fostering economic growth. Additionally, the plan places a strong emphasis on agriculture, recognizing its pivotal role in ensuring food security and promoting sustainable development in the region.
General Tarfa, also announced the continuation of food distribution to support vulnerable communities in the North East region of Nigeria. The initiative includes providing essential commodities such as rice, spaghetti, macaroni, vegetable oil, sugar, mats, blankets, clothing, and children’s wear.
Also speaking was the Managing Director, Mohammad Alkali who noted that the commission is also geared up to introduce e-vehicles as part of efforts to alleviate transportation challenges across the North East.
‘‘The commission remains committed to projects aimed at opening up closed sectors, stimulating socio-economic activities, and bolstering security within the North East and its environs’’ he said.
Furthermore, Alkali noted that the board is set to undertaken significant infrastructure projects, including major road constructions across the six states of the North East region as he expressed optimism regarding the advanced stages of completion of these projects and anticipated their inauguration before the end of the year.
In addition to infrastructure initiatives, the MD noted that the commission will implement its a 10-year master plan, developed in collaboration with stakeholders from across the region adding that the comprehensive plan encompasses various sectors, including agriculture, education, health, and entrepreneurial development, with a total estimated cost of 32 trillion Naira.
The unveiling of the master plan marks a significant milestone in the NEDC’s journey towards transforming the Northeast region. As implementation gets underway, all eyes will be on the commission as it strives to turn vision into reality, bringing hope and prosperity to the people of the Northeast.
Naira.
