New Policy to Guide Regional Commissions
Federal Government seeks a new policy framework to guide regional development commissions and strengthen nationwide coordination.
The Federal Government plans to introduce a National Regional Development Policy to provide a clear framework for the operations of the country’s six regional development commissions.
Speaking at a meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC), Abubakar Momoh, the Minister of Regional Development, said the new policy had become necessary because no formal operational guide currently exists for the commissions across the six geopolitical zones. He explained that the proposed framework would help strengthen coordination and improve the effectiveness of regional development efforts nationwide.
According to the Minister, the Ministry received technical assistance from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to support the development of the policy. He added that a committee led by the Permanent Secretary oversaw the drafting process. The committee also carried out extensive consultations across the country to ensure that key stakeholders contributed to the document.
Momoh stated that the majority of recommendations gathered from stakeholders in all six regions were included in the final draft. He said, “We wanted a policy that reflects the aspirations and realities of stakeholders across the country. Governors were duly informed of the consultations, and many sent representatives, while participants from different sectors made valuable contributions that have been reflected in the final draft.”
The Minister described discussions at the NEC meeting as productive and significant. He also expressed confidence that the National Regional Development Policy would receive approval from the Federal Executive Council once it is presented for consideration.
Momoh further noted that the regional development commissions were established through an Act of Parliament following approval by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He stressed that the commissions are now legally recognised institutions and that the National Regional Development Policy will provide the direction needed to support their long-term success. The Policy is expected to enhance regional governance and development planning across the country.
How do you think this policy could improve coordination among Nigeria’s regional development commissions?
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