Tinubu Orders Release of NCDC Funds as North-central Unveils 20-Year Development Plan

President Bola Tinubu directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) to ensure the prompt release of funds to the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) and other regional development commissions. At the inaugural North Central Stakeholders’ Development Summit in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the need for adequate funding to enable commissions to execute projects that could unlock regional economic and industrial potential.

He cautioned the commissions against relying solely on government funding and becoming conduits for wasteful expenditure, urging them to mobilize private capital and explore Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), donor funding, and development financing. The summit focused on a 20-year Economic, Infrastructure, and Social Development Plan for the North-central region, involving stakeholders such as governors, traditional rulers, academics, and private-sector operators.

President Tinubu highlighted the commission's mandate to complement existing government functions by addressing development deficits in areas such as roads, rail transportation, air transport, industrialization, security, investment, human capital development, education, and healthcare. He stressed the importance of focusing on projects that would enhance regional connectivity and economic integration.

The Managing Director/CEO of NCDC, Dr. Cyril Tsenyil, presented the commission's draft 20-year plan, which aimed to transform the region from fragmented states with untapped potential into a cohesive economic entity with integrated infrastructure and shared prosperity. Tsenyil outlined key projects, including the development of railways, ports, and industrial zones, emphasizing the need for regional collaboration and transforming agriculture into agro-industrial value chains.