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Buhari at 80 : He has shown Honest and Selfless Service, says Osinbajo

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Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN and his wife, Her Excellency, Dolapo Osinbajo have congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari on the occasion of his 80th birthday today.

In a personally signed statement, the Vice President wrote:

“Happy 80th Birthday, Mr. President!

“Your extraordinary life of unblemished service to the nation in the army, as a Governor, Minister, Military Head of State and as two-term Civilian President demonstrates that it is possible to serve the nation and our people honestly, forthrightly and selflessly.

“Dolly and I, and the family wish you many more happy years in peace and good health in Jesus’ name. Amen”

Senate President, Dr. Ahmad,, in a statement which he personally signed, extolled the leadership virtues of President Buhari.

“Your Excellency, millions of Nigerians are inspired by your life story and legacy of service to our dear and great country.

“As a soldier, military Head of State and democratically elected President, you consistently fought for the unity, development and progress of Nigeria.

“As we approach the end of your tenure on 29th May, 2023, you can rest assured that millions of Nigerians across our vast country genuinely appreciate your achievements in nation-building and in strengthening the guardrails of democracy in Nigeria.
“The record of your administration in infrastructural development across the nation is unrivaled and will continue to speak for your stewardship long after your retirement.

“Your Excellency, once again, I wish you happy birthday celebration and many more years in good health and happiness,” Lawan said.

Meanwhile, the Deputy President of the Senate and Delta APC Governorship Candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, has felicitated with President Muhammadu Buhari, as he celebrates his 80th birthday on Saturday.

In a congratulatory message personally signed by him, the Delta Central lawmaker extolled the President’s contribution to our national growth and development.

He pointed out that President Buhari will continue to remain a reference point in Nigerian politics because of his selfless and humane nature, stressing that the current administration is committed to finishing strong.

“Mr President, your purposeful leadership, anti-corruption stance, commitment to the cause of the masses, personal integrity and commitment to people-oriented policies and programmes have endeared you to millions of citizens both here and in the Diaspora.

“It didn’t come as a surprise to us that President Joe Biden of the United States invited you to the US-Africa Leaders Summit and lauded your efforts in deepening democracy not only in Nigeria, but also in Africa.

“On behalf of the people of Delta Central Senatorial District, I send my felicitations and best wishes and thank you for your selfless service to humanity and the nation as you mark your 80th birthday,” he said.

In a similar vein, the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila has congratulated the President.

Describing President Buhari as a beacon of hope, Gbajabiamila eulogized the president, noting that his footprints would remain indelible in the sands of time.

The speaker recognized that President Buhari has made sacrifices for Nigeria and Nigerians over the years, especially in the last seven and a half years of his stewardship as the democratically elected president twice.

Buhari, Gbajabiamila added, will be remembered as the Nigerian leader who brought infrastructure development closer to the people.

Noting that Buhari’s democratic credentials are uncommon, Gbajabiamila said the president has allowed democratic institutions to operate unhindered, which he said is the hallmark of democracy.

“Attaining the age of 80 is a milestone, especially when one uses a large chunk of that in service to humanity. That is the case with our President.

“President Buhari has provided democratic direction and redefined democracy in the Nigerian context in the last seven and half years.

“I join millions of our compatriots to wish the President a happy 80th birthday. I pray that the Almighty Allah will continue to guide and protect our President and grant him more wisdom,” Gbajabiamila said.

All Progressives Congress Presidential Candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his part, in a statement by his Media Office signed by Mr. Tunde Rahman, hailed the president for his commitment to nation-building and long years of patriotic service to the country.

The APC Presidential candidate described President Buhari as “a patriot, selfless and steadfast leader of uncommon zeal,” and noted that Buhari enlisted himself into the service of the country as a teenager who joined the military immediately after secondary school.

Asiwaju Tinubu said at 80, President Buhari can look back and be proud of his unblemished record of service to the nation throughout his military career as a soldier, platoon commander, General Officer Commanding, Military Governor, Minister of Petroleum, Head of State, Chairman of Petroleum Trust Fund and as the current leader of the country.

“I heartily congratulate my president and my leader, Muhammadu Buhari, on the momentous and remarkable occasion of his 80th birthday.

“An officer and a gentleman, President Buhari has been a selfless and steadfast leader, and a patriot with uncommon zeal who has dedicated almost his entire life to the service of Nigeria.

“Our country is lucky to have this great man and dedicated public servant at this time. President Buhari has led an extraordinary life of service to Nigeria at every duty post with unassailable integrity. History will be kind to him and record his contributions to the progress, unity and stability of Nigeria in volumes.

“As a people, we are truly blessed to have a president who sees no higher honour than the opportunity to serve his people, a responsibility he has always carried with utmost dedication.

“We are proud that at age 80, this noble man, an officer and a gentleman is still rendering his service, recording tremendous achievements, the country making remarkable progress under his leadership, and his steady hands gradually guiding the country to the Promised Land.

“On behalf of our great party, APC, and my family, I join the family, friends, associates and all well-wishers of President Buhari to wish him happy birthday and many happy returns of the day in good health.”

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Personality Profile

Who’s Dr James Aduku Odaudu?

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Dr. James Aduku Odaudu is a Nigerian professional with extensive experience in public affairs, communications, and development administration. He holds degrees in Theatre and Communications Arts from the University of Jos and a PhD in Public Administration from Nasarawa State University, Keffi.

Throughout his career, Dr. Odaudu has played a key role in information management across various sectors, including health, communication, agriculture, security, and aviation. Following his retirement from the Federal Civil Service in April 2022, he was appointed as the Special Adviser on Public Affairs by the  Minister of Aviation.  He also served as the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), where he was responsible for transparent communication regarding aviation incidents and investigations.

Beyond his contributions to public affairs, Dr. Odaudu is a development administrator with a strong interest in public-private partnerships and rural development. His scholarly work includes published articles on development issues in major academic and research journals.

A deeply public-spirited individual, Dr. Odaudu is known for his compassion toward the less privileged, particularly orphans and widows. His commitment to social welfare and community development underscores his dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.

Dr James Aduku Odaudu

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Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission

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By 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

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By 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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