Federal Government Launches North-Central Development Initiative
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has called for strengthened collaboration among leaders and stakeholders in Nigeria's North-Central region to advance the development objectives of the newly established North-Central Development Commission (NCDC).
Akume emphasized that the creation of the NCDC demonstrates the Federal Government's firm commitment to tackling persistent developmental challenges that have affected the zone for many years.
Stakeholders Unite for Regional Progress
The SGF's message was delivered by the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, during a stakeholders' reception dinner held on Monday. The event honored Cosmas Akighir, Chairman of the NCDC Governing Board, and was organized by the Jemgbagh Active and Retired Directors Association (JARDA).
The gathering attracted significant participation from across the North-Central states, including traditional rulers, community leaders, commissioners, and various representatives. This broad attendance underscored the regional importance placed on the commission's establishment and its potential impact.
Akume used the occasion to reaffirm President Bola Tinubu's dedication to enhancing national unity and improving living standards for citizens across all geopolitical zones. He specifically acknowledged the continuous support from the region's elders, religious leaders, and community heads, highlighting that unity of purpose remains fundamental to the commission's success.
Personal Commitment to Regional Advancement
The former two-term governor of Benue State reminded attendees of his deep personal connection to the North-Central, which he considers home. He assured stakeholders of his ongoing personal investment in the region's progress and pledged to continue championing initiatives that promote peace, security, and inclusive development.
Akume challenged commissioners and board members of the NCDC to justify the confidence placed in them by effectively delivering on their mandate. Simultaneously, he urged traditional and religious leaders to actively support the commission's programs at the grassroots level, ensuring community ownership and participation.
The SGF concluded with prayers for unity, guidance, and wisdom for all stakeholders involved, expressing strong confidence that the commission will successfully uplift the region while contributing to national development.
During the event, Managing Director of the NCDC, Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, led other board and management members in celebrating Chairman Akighir's leadership. He described Akighir as a humble, unifying, and visionary leader whose character reflects the core values of his community.
Tsenyil expressed deep satisfaction in honoring a chairman who, within just six months of appointment, has demonstrated remarkable integrity, commitment, and extraordinary support for the commission's mandate.
