Uncategorized
Without Reforms, Nigeria Cannot Develop, says NSIB Boss, Olateru
Published
1 year agoon
By
Nats Odaudu
* Bags Most Outstanding Public Servant of the Year award
…
The much-desired development will continue to elude the country as long as Nigerians do not embrace all-round reforms.
This was the view of the Director General Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau( NSIB) Engr. Akin Olateru who has canvassed for comprehensive reforms in the country’s socio-economic sectors as the only way to enhance the wellbeing of the citizenry and overall growth and development of Nigeria.
Olateru who stated this in a key note address titled: “Breaking Barriers to National Development, ” at the Nigerian Service Award organised by COA Media in Abuja on Thursday, noted that engaging in agribusiness, job creations, strengthen public services,implementing fiscal and monetary measures aimed at stimulating the economy and achieving quick recovery, improved working conditions for civil servants in both private and public sectors for optimal Performance, among others, are required to adequately address the economic and social barriers that have hindered the national development .
A statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, of the Bureau, Dr James Odaudu quoted the NSIB boss as lamenting that Nigeria has the largest economy and population in Africa for rapid human and infrastructural development, but 63 years after her independence the nation still faces multiple socio-economic barriers fully manifested in the low and fragile economic growth, poor infrastructure, poor electricity/ energy supply, primary product dependency, foreign currency gap and capital flight, human capital inadequacies, poverty, corruption, insecurity, illiteracy, unemployment, among others.
Explaining further, Olateru said the socio-economic barrier challenge has also caused many Nigerians to continue to leave the country in droves in search of greener pastures in other countries of the world.
This, he said, has resulted in massive emigration of the country’s greatest minds in search of more favorable living conditions and greener pastures across the world.
“Inadequate infrastructures such as, good road network,lack of stable power supply that hinder economic activities in the areas of local manufacturing and production of the domestic products that has grossly affected the volume of the country export according to him has made a lot of Nigerians rely heavily on imported products”.
The Director General who was honoured as the ‘Most Outstanding Public Servant’ at the event for his transformative efforts at NSIB, further Pointed out that an estimated of 3.5 million Nigerians join the labour market yearly with their prospect of being gainfully employed at the end of the day very weakened due to lack of job creations and unavailability of entrepreneurial skills.

Director General, Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, Engr Akin Olateru receiving the award of Outstanding Public Servant of the Year at the Nigeria Service Awards in Abuja
He said the poverty rate in Nigeria according to the world Bank is expected to reach 37%in 2023, with an estimated 84million Nigerians living below the poverty line. “This would make Nigeria the world’s second largest poor population after India, saying that the world Bank however, predicted that Nigerian economy is to grow at an average of 3.4% between 2023 to 2025, as a result of the reforms the government has embarked upon.
He therefore called on all Nigerians to key into, and support the current government of president Bola Ahmed Tinibu’s Socio-economic Reform programmes aimed at repositioning the country for the benefit of all.
You may like
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
Archives
- February 2025
- January 2025
- December 2024
- November 2024
- October 2024
- September 2024
- August 2024
- July 2024
- June 2024
- May 2024
- April 2024
- March 2024
- February 2024
- January 2024
- December 2023
- November 2023
- October 2023
- September 2023
- August 2023
- July 2023
- June 2023
- May 2023
- April 2023
- March 2023
- February 2023
- January 2023
- December 2022
- November 2022
- October 2022
- September 2022
- August 2022
- July 2022
- June 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- February 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
- November 2021
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
- July 2021
- June 2021
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February 2021
- January 2021
- December 2020
- November 2020
- October 2020
- September 2020
- August 2020
- July 2020
- June 2020
- May 2020
- April 2020
- March 2020
- January 2020
Categories
Meta

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

Hope Rises For International Travellers, As Aviation Minister Promises Resumption “In A Matter Of Weeks”

Resumption of International Flights flights: We’ll Not Grant Waivers to Operators – NCAA

Unity Schools Teachers Groan Over Unpaid Salaries, Appeal To Buhari
Trending
-
Aviation5 years ago
Hope Rises For International Travellers, As Aviation Minister Promises Resumption “In A Matter Of Weeks”
-
Aviation4 years ago
Resumption of International Flights flights: We’ll Not Grant Waivers to Operators – NCAA
-
Education4 years ago
Unity Schools Teachers Groan Over Unpaid Salaries, Appeal To Buhari
-
Uncategorized5 years ago
Thunder Kills 18 Suspected Kidnappers While Sharing Ransom In Adamawa
-
Aviation5 years ago
INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS TO RESUME SOON – PTF *AS Government Sets Up Facilitation Committee
-
Uncategorized5 years ago
RIVERS STATE TO CONSTRUCT FOURTH FLYOVER IN PORT HARCOURT
-
Aviation2 years ago
Aviation Ministry, MOFI Agree on Collaboration for National Asset Register
-
Aviation4 years ago
THERE IS NO JUSTIFICATION FOR UNIONS STRIKE… Nimet Management