Stakeholders and members of the North Central All Progressives Congress (APC) have called for the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) to address the region’s pressing issues.
At the APC North Central zonal meeting held in Lafia on Saturday, leaders emphasized the region’s struggles with numerous crises, highlighting the urgent need for the commission.
The stakeholders also advocated for the dredging of the River Niger, the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, respect for the rights of APC lawmakers in Plateau under the law, and more high-level appointments for party loyalists from the region.
They pointed out that infrastructural deficits, banditry, flooding, and other violent crimes are significant setbacks to both subsistence and large-scale farming in the region.
The attendees commended President Bola Tinubu for his effective handling of national issues, including reforms that the meeting noted would promote sustainable development.
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, stated, “The region needs to work together as it lags behind on infrastructure, including the neglected road leading to Baro Port.”
He called for the establishment of the NCDC and other interventions to support the region.
Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue noted that the region has not yet recovered from the 2022 flood, which damaged crops and livestock and displaced hundreds of thousands of people.
Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State echoed his colleagues’ sentiments, emphasizing the need for synergy to address the region’s myriad issues.
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State urged greater unity and collaboration among leaders to achieve collective goals of development, peace, and security.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State, who is the Nigeria Governors Forum chairman and APC coordinating governor for the North Central, said the meeting aimed to thank members and stakeholders for their support, foster unity, and discuss issues of human and infrastructure development affecting the region.
He called for continued support for the President and the party, noting ongoing efforts to secure more appointments and significant projects for the region.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, praised the initiative to unify APC leaders for a common growth agenda, asserting that President Tinubu values the region’s contributions and will reward their loyalty.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, remarked that the meeting was a result of ongoing party reforms aimed at keeping the APC “active all year round.”
He added that the party has also established the Progressive Institute to train leaders and members on key democratic principles and promote progressive policies.
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