Vice President, Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the North East Development Commission (NEDC) head office, launched the distribution of agricultural inputs, and initiated a road network project to stimulate economic growth and recovery in the region.
At the ceremony in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Shettima highlighted that the NEDC’s establishment is a timely response to the region’s urgent needs.
He stated that this initiative reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision and commitment to addressing the developmental challenges of the North East.
Shettima also commenced the distribution of agricultural inputs and equipment to farmers in Borno, encouraging Nigerians to support the federal government’s vision for a brighter future.
He stressed the importance of collective ownership and participation in the development process and urged the people of the North East to seize the opportunities provided by the NEDC to tackle their unique challenges and build a prosperous future.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State noted that the 13-year Boko Haram insurgency has severely set the region back, and appealed to Shettima to ensure that the NEDC operates according to its statutory provisions.
He emphasized that the Vice President has the power to drive essential development in the region, aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope program, and called for tangible progress to foster a better future for the people.
Acting Governor of Borno State, Umar Kadafur, praised the NEDC for its positive impact on the six states in the region.
He mentioned that Borno, as the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency, has greatly benefited from the commission’s energy programs, particularly in addressing electricity shortages.
Kadafur’s remarks highlighted the commission’s effectiveness in delivering meaningful solutions to the region’s challenges.
Board Chairman of the NEDC, Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa (rtd), emphasized that developing the North East will boost economic activities and generate opportunities for unemployed youths.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for releasing funds for regional development.
Tarfa assured that the NEDC will align with the Renewed Hope program to drive significant development in the region and create a brighter future for its youth.
NEDC Managing Director Goni Alkali noted that the commission has established offices in all six states of the region, with construction nearly complete.
He urged all stakeholders to support the commission’s programs to further develop the North East.
The farm equipment distributed includes tractors and high-quality seedlings, among other items, and the road network project will help revive economic activities affected by over a decade of insurgency.
Senator Friday Konbowei, representing the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, Kakashehu Lawal, emphasized that the government’s initiatives aim to empower the region and its people.
He highlighted the focus on agriculture, economic growth, employment, innovation, and creativity, reflecting the commitment to holistic and sustainable development, in line with the NEDC and the Renewed Hope program.
