The Senate has taken a major step toward addressing the challenges faced by Nigeria’s North West geopolitical zone by approving the establishment of the North West Development Commission (NWDC). On Thursday, the upper legislative chamber passed the bill that aims to tackle the region’s pressing socio-economic and infrastructural issues.
The bill, spearheaded by Deputy Senate President Senator Barau I. Jibrin, had the support of 20 other senators representing the seven states in the North West. This move marks a significant effort to bring much-needed federal attention and development to the area.
The bill’s progress gained momentum during Thursday’s plenary session when the Committee on Special Duties, led by its chairman, Senator Shehu Lawan Kaka (APC, Borno Central), presented its report. Senator Ireti Kingibe (LP, FCT) seconded the motion, reflecting a bipartisan effort in addressing the region’s concerns.
While presenting the committee’s findings, Senator Kaka emphasized that the commission’s structure and purpose were thoughtfully designed to promote sustainable socio-economic growth in the North West. He highlighted that creating the NWDC would not only bring the federal government closer to the region but also address the long-standing aspirations of its people.
When the bill was presented for voting, it received unanimous support from senators, a rare moment of agreement in the chamber. Senator Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, expressed his gratitude to his colleagues for their unity and shared commitment to the region’s development.
“This commission is essential,” Senator Barau remarked. “It will address the challenges facing the North West and, by extension, contribute to the overall progress of the country.”
Addressing the Region’s Challenges
The North West geopolitical zone holds immense importance for Nigeria as it is often referred to as the country’s “food basket.” However, the region has faced significant setbacks due to insurgency, banditry, and poor infrastructure. Senator Barau noted that these challenges have disrupted agricultural productivity and overall economic stability.
“If we are serious about ensuring food security in this country, we must invest in rebuilding critical infrastructure in the North West,” he said.
The proposed NWDC will focus on rebuilding infrastructure destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents and bandits, providing a foundation for agricultural and economic activities to thrive once more.
With the Senate’s approval secured, the bill will now move to the House of Representatives for consideration. If it gains their approval, it will be sent to the President for assent, bringing the vision of the NWDC closer to reality.
“This is a collective victory,” Senator Barau said in his closing remarks. “We are united in pushing this bill forward. Let us continue to work together to bring development and stability to our regions.”
The creation of regional development commissions has proven effective in addressing localized challenges in other parts of Nigeria. The North West Development Commission will follow the footsteps of similar initiatives, such as the North East Development Commission (NEDC), which has been instrumental in rehabilitating areas affected by insurgency in the North East.
By focusing on targeted development initiatives, the NWDC aims to ensure sustainable growth and improve the quality of life for people in the North West. Its establishment is expected to foster better coordination between the federal government and state governments in addressing the region’s unique needs.
The journey to establish the NWDC is a testament to the collective effort of lawmakers who recognize the importance of tackling regional disparities. If successfully implemented, the commission could serve as a model for addressing challenges in other parts of the country, ensuring balanced and inclusive development across Nigeria.
As the bill moves to the next stages of approval, all eyes will be on the House of Representatives and the President to see if they will lend their support to this transformative initiative.
