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TINUBU ELECTED ECOWAS CHAIRMAN, HARPS ON REGIONAL SECURITY
Published
2 years agoon
By
Nats Odaudu
…seeks private sector-led economic growth in sub-region
…Says ECOWAS must rise against coup d’etat
In a unanimous endorsement that signals the trust and confidence reposed in him by his counterparts, President Bola Tinubu emerged the new Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government on Sunday in Bissau, Guinea-Bissau.
A statement by the Special Adviser to the President, Special Duties, Communications & Strategy, Dele Alake said President Tinubu, who is the latest entrant into the exclusive club of Heads of State in West Africa, enthusiastically accepted the honour, on behalf of Nigeria, with a solemn pledge to bear the responsibility of the office and run an inclusive administration of the regional organisation.
The Nigerian leader, however, warned that the threat to peace in the sub-region had reached an alarming proportion with terrorism and emerging pattern of military takeover that now demand urgent and concerted actions.
He said insecurity and creeping terrorism were stunting the progress and development of the region.
President Tinubu called for a collective action from member-states, pledging that under his leadership, frameworks would be harmonized to actualize the dreams of ECOWAS.
“On peace and security, the threat has reached an alarming level, and needs urgent actions in addressing the challenges. Indeed, without a peaceful environment, progress and development in the region will continue to remain elusive. In this regard, we must remain committed to the utilisation of all regional frameworks at our disposal to address the menace of insecurity,” he declared.
President Tinubu noted that ECOWAS had developed a security architecture, which he noted, “covers a wide range of areas that involved kinetic and non-kinetic operations, including preventive diplomacy. There is also the Regional Plan of Action on Fight against Terrorism 2020-2024 as well as the operationalization of the ECOWAS Standby Force on Fight Against Terrorism.
“I will ensure that we immediately harmonize these plans and mobilize resources as well as the political will to towards the actualisation of the initiatives. As terrorists do not respect boundaries, we must work collectively to have an effective regional counterterrorism measure,” the President further stated.
On his emergence as Chairman on his first participation at the summit, having just started out as the elected leader of Nigeria, President Tinubu stated that he was humbled and honoured by the trust to assume the leadership of the regional body, pledging his commitment to serve the interest of the community.
He said: “Indeed, I’m humbled and honored by this trust, and want to assure you of my unalloyed commitment to provide the necessary leadership with dedication to serve the interest of the community.”
To underscore his commitment towards regional integration, the Nigerian President declared that he would prioritize political stability, peace and security, regional economic integration and strengthening of the ECOWAS institutions, declaring that democracy and good governance remain the abiding cornerstone of peace and sustainable development. While decrying the emerging pattern of coup d’etat in West Africa where soldiers have toppled the popular mandate of the people through barrel of guns, President Tinubu charged ECOWAS to stand firm in defence of democracy.
“We must stand firm on democracy. There is no governance, freedom and rule of law without Democracy. We will not accept coup after coup in West Africa again. Democracy is very difficult to manage but it is the best form of government.
There is no one here among us who did not campaign to be a leader. We didn’t give our soldiers resources, we didn’t invest in them, in their boots, in their training to violate the freedom of the people. To turn their guns against civil authorities is a violation of the principles upon which they were hired which is to defend the sovereignty of their nations. We must not sit in ECOWAS as toothless bulldogs,” the President warned.
On political stability, he said: “You will all agree with me that democracy and good governance are the cornerstones of peace and sustainable development of every society. I’m fully committed to deepening democracy and good governance in the region.
“We must strengthen our democratic institutions and ensure the respect for human rights and the rule of law. I will enhance engagements with the countries in transition to ensure their quick return to democratic rule.
The new ECOWAS Chairman called for improved private sector participation in the effort towards the economic development of Member States as well as their social integration.
“We would work collectively to pursue an inclusive economic integration, which will be significantly private sector driven, in order to unlock the vast economic potentials of our region. We would actively promote trade, investment, and business cooperation among Member States by addressing the barriers impeding intra-regional trade, as well as creating a conducive business environment.
“We must encourage economic partnerships to raise the level of trade and investments in our region, hence facilitating employment creation and sustainable development and prosperity for our citizens.
“To this end, we must look inward and work with our regional economic facilitation platforms such as the Federation of West of West Africa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FEWACCI) as well as ECOWAS Trade Organisation Network to attain our desired goals, “he said further.
President Tinubu assured the regional leaders of the immediate implementation of his vision for the body, declaring that:
“In furtherance of my vision for our region’s economic recovery and growth, Nigeria intends to convene an ECOWAS Extra Ordinary Summit on Trade and Investment in October 2023.
“The event will provide opportunity for Member States to showcase their potentials and encourage match-making, in order to evolve business cooperation among the various organized private sector within the region,” he added while calling for the strengthening of the institutions of the body.
“In the area of strengthening our Organisations Institutions and ensuring effective performance, we underscore the need for the conclusion of the on-going institutional reforms of the organization.
“Given that Community Levy remained the biggest source of generating funds to run our organization, we must ensure that our citizens being taxed must be positively impacted by the programmes and projects of ECOWAS. This is in line with the shift of ECOWAS slogan from “ECOWAS of State” to “ECOWAS of People,” the Nigerian President emphasised.
He appreciated the Authority of Heads of States and citizens of the Community for trusting him to lead the West African body.
President Tinubub said: “Your Excellencies, let me conclude by once again deeply appreciating the Authority of Heads of State and the citizens of the Community for your trust in me. Together, we can shape a brighter future of shared values of peace, democracy, and economic prosperity of our region.”
In his welcome address, the outgone ECOWAS Chairman and President of Republic of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Mokhtar Sissoco Embalo saluted his fellow leaders for sustaining the vision of the organisation despite the global economic headwinds and trouble spots within the region. He cited Mali, Burkina Faso and Republic of Guinea as countries where the constitutional order had been distorted while congratulating Nigeria and Sierra Leone for sustaining constitutional order through democratic process with the recent successful elections.
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Who’s Dr James Aduku Odaudu?
Published
6 days agoon
February 13, 2025By
SunriseDr. 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.

Uncategorized
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Published
2 weeks 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
2 weeks 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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Who’s Dr James Aduku Odaudu?
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission
Addressing Regional Infrastructure Deficits through the North Central Development Commission

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