Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has called on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to focus on implementing impactful and sustainable projects that will significantly improve infrastructure and livelihoods across the six states of Nigeria’s northeast region.
Governor Zulum made the appeal on while receiving a delegation from the NEDC, led by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmodu, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
Emphasising the need for meaningful development, Zulum highlighted key priority areas including security enhancement, establishment of dry inland ports, integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), independent electricity generation, and improved road connectivity.
“I believe the time has come for us to prioritise projects with measurable outcomes,” Zulum stated. “We are already more than halfway through the lifespan of the NEDC as defined by its funding framework. It is imperative we focus on initiatives that will yield maximum value for the region.”
Zulum warned that without clear benchmarks, the commission risks underperformance compared to similar development agencies. “Everyone in leadership positions within the NEDC from the minister to board members and senior officials must be prepared to account for their stewardship. There has to be something tangible to show for your tenure,” he said.
Despite the call for greater accountability, Governor Zulum reaffirmed the support of state governors in the northeast, pledging their cooperation to help the NEDC fulfil its mandate.
He also praised the commission for its ongoing humanitarian interventions, educational support, and community-based programmes in Borno State.
Earlier, Minister Uba Maigari Ahmodu stressed the importance of working closely with the North East Governors Forum to implement the North East Stabilisation and Development Plan (NESDP).
He reiterated the Ministry of Regional Development’s commitment to ensuring effective oversight of the NEDC’s operations to drive the region’s recovery and growth following years of insurgency and economic disruption.