Minister Abubakar Momoh Issues Stern Warning to Regional Development Commissions
The Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, has delivered a firm caution to regional development commissions, instructing them to refrain from initiating new projects until existing ones are substantially completed and their impact assessed. He emphasized that this directive is crucial to addressing recurring challenges such as duplication of efforts and inter-agency rivalry, which he insists must cease immediately.
Addressing Duplication and Rivalry at Sectoral Retreat
Minister Momoh issued this warning during the opening of a two-day sectoral retreat held in Benin. The event brought together the leadership team of the ministry, boards and management of the seven regional development commissions, and national assembly members. The retreat was themed Fresh Ideas to Unlock the Potentials of the Region, aiming to foster collaboration and strategic planning.
In his address, Momoh reminded attendees of the rationale behind President Bola Tinubu's establishment of additional development commissions. He stated, "This bold initiative is not anchored in geo-political considerations but on a strategic commitment to geo-spatial development, recognizing the need for a multi-sectoral, area-based, and spatially targeted approach to serve as a catalyst for regional economic and social transformation."
Prioritizing Key Areas for Development
The Minister outlined specific priority areas for the commissions, urging them to focus on:
- Roads, bridges, and transportation links
- Investments and healthcare delivery
- Security and digital infrastructure
- Youth and women empowerment
He stressed that these efforts should align with a common national objective: achieving equitable and sustainable development that ensures no citizen is left behind. Additionally, Momoh encouraged the commissions to explore establishing centers of excellence in healthcare and other fields, emphasizing the need for decisive investment in critical physical and digital infrastructure to enhance connectivity and accessibility across regions.
Introducing Peer Review System for Continuous Improvement
Minister Momoh disclosed plans to implement a peer review system among the commissions, designed to foster healthy competition and drive continuous improvement. He described the retreat as a significant milestone in reaffirming shared responsibilities to transform regions into zones of prosperity, peace, and opportunity. He urged participants to use the event to interrogate practices, challenge themselves, and strengthen collaborative bonds, leaving with renewed energy and clear commitments to deliver on promises to the people.
Governor's Call for Collaborative Efforts
Earlier in the retreat, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, represented by his deputy Dennis Idahosa, delivered a welcome address. He highlighted the importance of fresh ideas in addressing Nigeria's uneven development path and urged participants to work together to achieve the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. This call to action underscored the collective effort required to overcome developmental challenges and unlock regional potentials.
