Uncategorized
Allied Air takes delivery of brand new N8billion B737-800SF aircraft
Published
4 years agoon
By
Nats Odaudu
• Nigeria’s economy picking up more and more-Emefelie
• Aircraft set to distribute COVID-19 Vaccines across Nigeria-Sirika
• Acquisition shows signs we are leaving a recession-Wigwe
ALLIED Air, Nigeria’s first cargo airline has taken delivery of a brand new Boeing 737-800 SF aircraft which according to the airline, financiers and government, will support the country in its distribution of COVID-19 Vaccines when they arrive.
The aircraft which was said to have been procured for about N8Billion, arrived Abuja amidst the customary water canon salute at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The plane was received by dignitaries including the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefelie, Minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika as well as Managing Director of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe and Managing Director of Allied Air Captain Val Thongo.
Emefelie who spoke on the financing of the aircraft explained that the aircraft was financed through the intervention fund of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) via Access Bank stating that the industry was growing.
He said, “First thank the honorable minister for aviation Hadi Sirika for what he is doing in the aviation industry in Nigeria and we are here to commission the B737-800 aircraft which has been funded through the intervention fund of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) through access bank.
“We are happy because only two or three weeks ago, the aviation minister also commissioned another aircraft for Air Peace so what does that tell us, that with the hard work of the aviation minister we can see that Nigerian aviation is picking up more and more, investment are happening in the aviation industry and only just last week, we even got a call from one of the West African countries asking that they want Allied Air to participate even in lifting currency.
“It might interest you to know that Allied Air is Central Banks own major currency lifting company.
“We need more and more investment in the area of aviation and I can assure us that CBN is ready, Nigerian banks are ready and that is why you can see one of the largest banks in Nigeria Access Bank also standing here ready as the major financier taking all the credit risk to support Access Bank.
Also speaking on the aircraft acquisition, Aviation Minister, Hadi sirika, expressed his thanks to the Central Bank and Access Bank for their support, stating that the country is now thinking into the future.
He also stated that government was putting policies in place to make financial institutions get involved in investment opportunities like the aircraft acquisition which is an index for growth too.

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefelie, Minister of Aviation Hadi Sirika, Director General NCAA, Captain Musa Nuhu as well as Managing Director of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe and Managing Director of Allied Air Captain Val Thongo Inside the aircraft
“First and foremost, it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of the Central Bank and Access Bank and we’ve seen how forward looking CBN is and how futuristic Nigeria has become; this kind of partnership is what we have been canvassing for since we assumed leadership of this industry.
“And because you know before COVID-19 aviation grew to be the second fastest sector of the economy in 2018 and in 2019 became the fastest growing sector, it is activities like these with support of central bank and other financial institutions like Access Bank that has made it possible so the policy we are putting in place is okay
“This aircraft will be dedicated to cargo and also the distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, so the aircraft is ready, the cargo shed is ready and everything is ready to receive the vaccine and distribute” Sirika said.
Managing Director of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe in his speech expressed pride to be part of the Allied Air venture, stressing that the aircraft will further increase the country’s capacity to distribute COVID-19 vaccines when they arrive.
He said,”We are proud to be part of this endeavour by allied air supported by the CBN and the Ministry of aviation but I think what is important is that these are little signals to show that we are coming out of a recession. We just visited the facility for cargo that would allow them ship things pout of the country. This shows Nigeria is opening up, we now have aircraft that would deliver COVID-19 vaccines across the entire country. Yes we receive products internationally but to distribute them across the country, now we truly have the facility to do all of that. We are very happy .”

Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika, CBN Governor Emefelie, Access Bank Managing Director Herbert Wigwe and others at the airport
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Uncategorized
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Published
4 days agoon
February 5, 2025By
SunriseBy James Aduku Odaudu, PhD
Introduction
Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.
Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria
The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth. However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:
1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.
2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.
3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.
4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.
5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.
The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:
1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks
The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.
2. Enhancing Energy Supply
By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.
3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure
The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.
4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation
Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.
5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development
The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.
6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development
Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro-processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.
Expected Impact of the NCDC
The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:
Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.
Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.
Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.
Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.
Challenges and Recommendations
As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:
Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.
Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.
Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.
Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.
Conclusion
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.
• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com
Uncategorized
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Published
4 days agoon
February 5, 2025By
SunriseBy James Aduku Odaudu, PhD
Introduction
Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.
Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria
The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth. However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:
1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.
2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.
3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.
4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.
5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.
The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:
1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks
The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.
2. Enhancing Energy Supply
By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.
3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure
The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.
4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation
Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.
5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development
The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.
6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development
Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro-processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.
Expected Impact of the NCDC
The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:
Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.
Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.
Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.
Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.
Challenges and Recommendations
As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:
Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.
Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.
Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.
Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.
Conclusion
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.
• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com
Uncategorized
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Published
4 days agoon
February 5, 2025By
SunriseBy James Aduku Odaudu, PhD
Introduction
Infrastructure development is generally recognised as a key driver of economic growth, social stability, and national progress. However, most parts of Nigeria have, over time, suffered from significant infrastructure deficits that have hindered their development potentials. The North Central region of the country, comprising states such as Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, and Plateau, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), like other regions, faces challenges in transportation, energy, water supply, healthcare, and education infrastructure. To tackle these challenges, the establishment of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) is crucial. This essay examines the role the NCDC can play in addressing infrastructure deficits in the North Central region, its potential impact, and the challenges it may face in achieving its mandate.
Current State of Infrastructure Deficits in North Central Nigeria
The North Central region of Nigeria is heavily endowed with vast natural resources and agricultural potential, which, ordinarily, should serve as catalysts for economic growth. However, it faces severe infrastructure challenges that hinder that bellies’ God-given resources. Some of the key deficits include:
1. Poor Road and Transportation Networks – Many roads in the region are in deplorable condition, making transportation of goods and people difficult. The absence of efficient rail networks further compounds the problem.
2. Insufficient Energy Supply – Despite hosting major hydroelectric dams like Kainji and Shiroro, many areas suffer from inadequate electricity supply, affecting industries and businesses.
3. Deficient Healthcare Facilities – The region has inadequate hospitals and healthcare centres, leading to poor health outcomes. Rural communities especially lack access to quality medical services.
4. Water and Sanitation Issues – Many communities face water shortages, poor sanitation, and lack of access to clean drinking water, contributing to disease outbreaks.
5. Educational Infrastructure Challenges – Schools in the region are often underfunded, with inadequate classrooms, teachers, and learning materials, limiting educational opportunities for young people.
The Role of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC)
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), recently established by the Tinubu administration, is expected to serve as a special intervention agency aimed at addressing these pressing infrastructure needs of the region. Modelled after the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the North East Development Commission (NEDC), and other similar regional development commissions, the NCDC is expected to focus on the following key areas:
1. Improving Transportation and Road Networks
The commission can invest in the construction and rehabilitation of major roads, bridges, and railways to enhance connectivity within and outside the region. Prioritizing major highways and rural access roads will facilitate economic growth and boost commerce.
2. Enhancing Energy Supply
By partnering with power sector stakeholders, the NCDC can develop projects that expand electricity distribution, support renewable energy initiatives, and optimize the hydroelectric potential of the region. Special emphasis should be placed on rural electrification to support small businesses and industries.
3. Developing Healthcare Infrastructure
The commission can improve healthcare services by building and upgrading hospitals, equipping medical centres, and providing modern medical facilities. Additionally, it can facilitate the training and recruitment of healthcare professionals to bridge the gap in medical services.
4. Boosting Water Supply and Sanitation
Water projects, including borehole drilling, dam construction, and water treatment plants, can be undertaken by the NCDC to ensure access to clean and safe drinking water. Improved sanitation facilities will also help reduce the spread of waterborne diseases.
5. Investing in Education and Human Capital Development
The commission, given its mandates, can prioritize education by constructing new schools, renovating existing ones, and providing scholarships and vocational training programs. A well-educated workforce is essential for the region’s long-term development.
6. Promoting Agriculture and Industrial Development
Since agriculture is the backbone of the North Central economy, the NCDC is expected play significant roles in establishing new irrigation projects whilst simultaneously rehabilitating the very many abandoned ones, provide farm inputs, and establish agro-processing enterprises. Industrial parks and business hubs are also expected to attract the intervention of the commission in order to boost investments and create employment opportunities.
Expected Impact of the NCDC
The successful implementation of the NCDC’s programme is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:
Economic Growth: Improved infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investors, and boost economic productivity in both urban and rural areas.
Job Creation: Construction projects, industrial development, and service sector expansion will generate employment opportunities.
Improved Quality of Life: Better healthcare, education, and basic amenities will enhance living standards across the region. The will a multiplier effect on rural-urban migration, as the presence of the hitherto unavailable facilities will make migration unattractive.
Security Enhancement: Infrastructure development can help address security challenges by reducing poverty and unemployment, which are often linked to criminal activities.
Challenges and Recommendations
As laudable as the aims and mandates of the commission are, the NCDC may face several challenges, which can hinder their realization. These include:
Corruption and Mismanagement: To prevent misappropriation of funds, transparency and accountability mechanisms must be put in place. Adequate monitoring and control of projects need to be established.
Political Interference: The commission should be, as much as humanly possible, insulated from political influence to ensure its programs are implemented effectively. This is a big call, as political office holders will be interested in projects, needed or not, to their constituencies. The same goes for appointments.
Funding Constraints: Adequate budgetary allocations and alternative funding sources, such as public-private partnerships (PPPs), should be explored. The Act establishing the commission has tried to address this by properly identifying sources of funding for the NCDC and similar organisations.
Bureaucratic Bottlenecks: Streamlining administrative processes will enhance efficiency and timely execution of projects. As much as possible, technocrats with administrative capacities should be identified to run the critical departments to ensure strict adherence to rules.
Conclusion
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC), as envisaged by the Establishment Act, presents a viable solution to addressing the region’s infrastructure deficits. By focusing on roads, energy, healthcare, water, education, and agriculture, the commission can unlock the economic potential of the North Central states. However, strong corporate governance, financial accountability, and efficient project execution are essential for the NCDC to achieve its mandate. With proper implementation, the NCDC can significantly contribute to regional development and national prosperity.
• Dr James Odaudu is a development administrator and can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com
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Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission

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