FEATURE: FG SETS A NEW COURSE FOR REGIONAL GROWTH WITH A TRANSFORMATIVE POLICY DIRECTION

Written by Sani Datti

FEATURE: FG SETS A NEW COURSE FOR REGIONAL GROWTH WITH A TRANSFORMATIVE POLICY DIRECTION

…the bold resurgence of Nigeria’s regional development

For decades, the map of Nigeria has told a story of silent contrasts. From the bustling industrial corridors of the South to the resilient agricultural heartlands of the North, the nation’s immense potential has long been constrained by structural disparities and uneven development.

Today, however, a new narrative is emerging. As the present administration marks its third anniversary, the Federal Government is charting a fresh course, one where geography is no longer destiny, and where every region is positioned to become a productive hub of opportunity, growth, and prosperity. At the centre of this transformation stands the Ministry of Regional Development (MRD), an institution redefined to drive inclusive development across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The Ministry of Regional Development (MRD) was established on 23rd October 2024 following the restructuring of the former Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs by President Ahmad Bola Tinubu, GCFR. The development reflects a deliberate shift toward more inclusive regional development and a broader national strategy to accelerate socio-economic growth through dedicated regional development commissions.

The defunct Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs was created on 10th September 2008 by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, GCFR, with the mandate to formulate and implement policies for the development and security of the nine Niger Delta states: Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers. The Ministry operated with a single parastatal, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

Today, the Ministry of Regional Development oversees a far broader institutional architecture comprising the North East Development Commission, North West Development Commission, North Central Development Commission, Niger Delta Development Commission, South East Development Commission, South West Development Commission, and South South Development Commission. 

The Ministry now serves as the coordinating and supervisory body for these regional commissions, ensuring that their activities align with national development priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration.

In recent months, the Ministry has moved decisively to strengthen this new framework. One of the clearest demonstrations of this renewed direction was the successful conclusion of the 2026 Sectoral Retreat held in Benin City, Edo State, in collaboration with the Regional Development Commissions.

The two-day high-level retreat, themed “Generating Fresh Ideas to Unlock the Potential of the Regions,” brought together critical stakeholders, including the leadership of all seven Regional Development Commissions, representatives from the National Assembly, development partners, and senior public-sector officials.

More than a routine gathering, the retreat became a strategic platform for redefining the future of regional governance and sustainable development in Nigeria.

Discussions focused on strengthening governance systems, enhancing institutional collaboration, and unlocking innovative financing pathways to support long-term regional transformation. At the heart of the deliberations was a clear consensus: Nigeria’s regional development architecture must evolve beyond bureaucracy to deliver measurable economic impact and tangible improvements in citizens' lives.

Participants stressed the importance of strict compliance with governance frameworks, including the Public Procurement Act, the Public Service Rules, international accounting standards, and the Code of Conduct. These measures, stakeholders agreed, are essential to restoring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery.

The retreat also produced far-reaching resolutions aimed at repositioning the Regional Development Commissions to be more effective. These include strengthening the oversight functions of governing boards, institutionalising capacity-building programmes, and ensuring proper alignment between procurement plans and annual budget cycles.

A major highlight of the retreat was the strong push for economic diversification and self-sufficiency across the regions. The commissions were encouraged to invest in revenue-generating assets beyond statutory allocations, while simultaneously scaling up skills acquisition programmes in agriculture, entrepreneurship, and small-scale enterprise development to create jobs and stimulate local economies.

Stakeholder engagement also emerged as a critical component of the new development strategy. Participants emphasised the need for structured consultations on budgets, projects, and service delivery across constituent states, involving governors, traditional rulers, youth organisations, women’s associations, and community leaders.

Infrastructure development featured prominently in the discussions. Stakeholders underscored the urgent need for investments in electricity generation, intermodal transport systems, industrial clusters, and logistics networks to unlock trade and boost regional competitiveness. These interventions are expected to strengthen connections between production zones and both domestic and international markets.

Equally significant was the call for stronger engagement with development partners. To deepen international collaboration, the Ministry committed to convening a Development Partner Engagement Forum in the near future, and each commission is expected to designate an officer to facilitate access to international grants, climate financing, concessional funding, and other development opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at the close of the retreat, the Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to coordinated and results-oriented regional growth:

“We must strengthen regular, close coordination between the Ministry, the Commissions, board members, and management through smaller, more frequent engagements. From now on, all our actions will be firmly tied to the deliverables assigned to the Ministry at the start of the year.

Once a Managing Director signs the performance bond, accountability becomes non-negotiable; you are required to report consistently and transparently on your deliverables.”

The retreat further reinforced the urgency of finalising and implementing the National Regional Development Policy (NRDP) 2026–2030, which is expected to serve as the central framework guiding strategic plans, annual work programmes, and budget implementation across all commissions. To ensure effective implementation and policy coherence, an inter-agency implementation committee is also expected to be established.

With clear timelines, actionable reforms, and renewed political will, the outcomes of the sectoral retreat signal a strong shift toward a more coordinated, transparent, and impact-driven regional development agenda for Nigeria.

In another major step toward institutionalising regional development, the Ministry, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), concluded a series of Zonal Technical Validation Workshops across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones to refine the draft National Regional Development Policy (NRDP) 2026–2030.

The workshops represent the final nationwide consultation phase and have brought together stakeholders from federal and state governments, Regional Development Commissions, local government authorities, civil society organisations, academia, the private sector, and traditional institutions.

The process reflects the Ministry’s determination to ensure that the policy is inclusive, participatory, and reflective of the realities and aspirations of communities across the country.

Speaking on the significance of the policy, the Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh described the NRDP as a unifying national framework capable of transforming regional governance and development planning in Nigeria.

“This policy provides the guiding framework for regional development in Nigeria. Each Development Commission is expected to derive its master plan and operational agenda from it, in line with the Ministry's mandate to coordinate regional development efforts. Stakeholders must now engage it critically to ensure it is robust, inclusive, and implementation-ready.”

Also speaking, the UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative, Ms Elsie G. Attafuah, described the policy as a decisive shift toward a people-centred and inclusive development model:

“The National Regional Development Policy signals a decisive shift, one that takes a people-centric and inclusive approach. At UNDP, we are proud to stand alongside the Ministry of Regional Development, Regional Development Commissions (RDCs) and state governments in advancing this ambition through our Integrated Smart States Programme (ISSP) approach. Through the ISSP, we are supporting a model of development that is balanced, locally driven, and connected, where trade, digital innovation, and sustainable energy converge to create jobs. By validating this approach across all six zones, Nigeria is strengthening its sovereign capability to turn regional diversity into a shared national collective advantage.”

Conclusion

As the present administration marks its third anniversary, the Ministry of Regional Development is steadily emerging as one of the Federal Government’s most strategic institutions for national transformation. Through bold policy reforms, strengthened governance systems, strategic partnerships, and an inclusive framework that recognises the unique strengths of every region, the Ministry is laying the foundation for a more balanced and prosperous Nigeria.

From the restructuring of the Ministry to the ongoing implementation of the National Regional Development Policy, the message is clear: regional development is no longer an isolated agenda but a central pillar of national progress.

What is unfolding is more than administrative reform; it is the deliberate construction of a new development architecture designed to unlock opportunities, reduce disparities, create jobs, and stimulate sustainable growth across all six geopolitical zones.

In many ways, this marks the bold resurgence of Nigeria’s regional development vision, one driven by coordination, accountability, innovation, and the collective determination to ensure that no region is left behind.

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT DONATES LABORATORY AND ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT TO UNIPORT

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

6 March 2026

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT DONATES LABORATORY AND ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT TO UNIPORT

The Ministry of Regional Development has donated new laboratory and engineering equipment to the University of Port Harcourt in Rivers State to enhance its research and learning capabilities. The Hon. Minister of Regional Development, Dr. Abubakar Momoh, said the equipment would provide students and researchers with hands-on training opportunities, foster innovation, and contribute to ground breaking research.

The handover ceremony was held on Friday, 6 March 2026, at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Port Harcourt, with representatives of the Ministry and university officials in attendance. The donation aims to promote academic excellence and innovation.

The Minister, represented by the Director of Environmental Management in the Ministry of Regional Development, Engr. Fredrick Odika, said, “We are committed to supporting institutions of higher learning in Nigeria, and this donation is a demonstration of our commitment to promoting academic excellence.

“We appreciate the partnership that made this possible and look forward to the discoveries to come as we embark on this new chapter. We recognise the importance of collaboration and investment in our educational infrastructure. This laboratory equipment represents a commitment to excellence in education and research,” he stated.

He appealed to the students and faculty to make the most of the resource, saying, “Let it inspire curiosity, drive innovation, and push boundaries. The possibilities are endless, and we expect great things from the University of Port Harcourt.”

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Port Harcourt, Professor O.A. Georgewill, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Regional Development, saying, “The entire management and staff of the University of Port Harcourt are thrilled to receive this donation, which will significantly enhance our research and learning capabilities. We are grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the Hon. Minister of Regional Development, Dr. Abubakar Momoh; the Minister of State, Uba Maigari Ahmed; and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, for their unwavering support.”

The VC said the equipment would have cost the university millions of naira if not for the ministry’s intervention, adding that it would greatly benefit the Faculty of Engineering, particularly the Departments of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

Commenting, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor T.A. Briggs, said the equipment would enhance research and academic programmes, saying, “We are grateful for this donation, which will aid our accreditation process and improve our research capabilities. The equipment will enable our students to conduct cutting-edge research and develop innovative solutions to real-world problems.”

Also speaking, the Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, Dr. Chioma Awodiji, promised to take good care of the equipment, saying, “We will ensure that the equipment is used effectively and maintained properly. This donation is a game-changer for our department, and we are excited to explore the possibilities it presents.”

Sani Datti

Head of Information and Public Relations

FG AWARDS CONTRACT FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF TWO BRIDGES AS MORE PROJECTS ARE COMMISSIONED IN TARABA STATE

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

PRESS RELEASE

15th FEBRUARY 2026

FG AWARDS CONTRACT FOR RECONSTRUCTION OF TWO BRIDGES AS MORE PROJECTS ARE COMMISSIONED IN TARABA STATE

The Federal Government has awarded the contract for the reconstruction of the Namnai Bridge and the construction of the Bantaje Bridge in Taraba State as part of efforts to restore critical infrastructure and stimulate economic activities across the North-East. The projects will be funded through the North-East Development Commission (NEDC).

The Hon. Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, disclosed this during the inspection and commissioning of projects in Jalingo and other parts of the state.

The delegation inspected the ongoing reconstruction of the Namnai Bridge along Wukari Road. The nine-span, 180-metre bridge, including a two-kilometre approach road, commenced last month. The Minister also inspected the proposed site for the Bantaje Bridge.

Speaking during a visit to the government house, the Minister stated, “Our visit to Taraba is to inspect and commission projects that directly impact the lives of the people. The NEDC has provided streetlights across all local government areas and executed water projects statewide. We have also reached underserved and marginalised persons with critical support,” the Minister said.

In Jalingo, the Minister commissioned the Institute of Entrepreneurship Building at Taraba State University, the Virology Laboratory, and the MRI Block at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jalingo.

In Zing, the Minister commissioned a renovated and fully equipped 60-bed ward at Zing General Hospital and officially handed it over to the Taraba State Government. He also delivered three two-bedroom staff quarters to the government. He noted that the initiatives would not only improve health outcomes but also provide a conducive environment for patients and healthcare workers.

Outside the state capital, he inspected key projects in Donga and Wukari Local Government Areas, including the Mega School at Kwararafa University, the ICT Centre at Federal University Wukari, and the NEDC Mass Housing Units. 

Governor Agbu Kefas commended the Federal Government for the interventions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaboration. “We will continue to work closely with the Federal Government to attract more development projects and improve the welfare of our people,” the Governor stated.

Sani Datti

Head of Information and Public Relations

Federal Government Unveils Mega School, MRI Centre, Roads and Bridges in Adamawa

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

11TH FEBRUARY 2026

Federal Government Unveils Mega School, MRI Centre, Roads and Bridges in Adamawa

As the Federal Government, through the North East Development Commission (NEDC), expands its footprint in the North East region, the Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmed, has commissioned a series of impactful infrastructure projects across Adamawa State, strengthening the Federal Government’s drive for sustainable development in the region.

The projects span health, education, water and road infrastructure within Yola/Jimeta and across Guyuk, Mayo Belwa, Garkida, Hong and Madagali Local Government Areas.

In Yola, the Minister commissioned the newly constructed MRI Block and inspected the ongoing Accident and Emergency project at Modibbo Adama University Teaching Hospital. He also inaugurated the 1.1km road, borehole and solar streetlights at the Federal College of Education, Yola, and upgraded water facilities at the Adamawa State School of Nursing and Midwifery.

Outside the state capital, the Minister commissioned the NEDC Mega School and Skills Acquisition Centre in Guyuk; another Skills Acquisition Centre in Mayo Belwa; a Primary Health Care Centre with additional facilities in Uba Town, Hong LGA; a 2.5km road in Garkida; and another 2.5km road at the College of Education, Hong. He also inaugurated key bridges at Kuzum, Dilichim, Wuri Gyayadi and Tashan Tsamiya in Madagali LGA, and inspected the 10km Fufore–Ribadu road.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Governor, the Minister stated, “We are advancing multiple infrastructure projects across Adamawa, spanning health, education and water sectors. These projects reflect our firm resolve to deliver long-term development outcomes and will be handed over to the state government for proper utilisation and maintenance." 

He commended the positive leadership and transformation under Governor Ahmadu Fintiri, noting that it has created an enabling environment for the successful implementation of the interventions.

Receiving the Minister on behalf of the Governor, the Deputy Governor of Adamawa State, Her Excellency Kaletapwa G. Farauta, expressed appreciation for the interventions. 

“On behalf of His Excellency, we warmly welcome you to Yola. We are grateful for these projects and assure you that the state government will take ownership, maintain and upgrade them for generations to come. We also urge an expanded NEDC presence in Adamawa, considering the pressures we face as a frontline state in the region,” she said.

Sani Datti 

Head Information and Public Relations

FG HANDS OVER 500-CAPACITY STUDENT HOSTELS IN KUMO AND KALTUNGO, AS MINISTER COMMISSIONS MORE PROJECTS IN GOMBE

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

PRESS RELEASE

9TH FEBRUARY 2026

FG HANDS OVER 500-CAPACITY STUDENT HOSTELS IN KUMO AND KALTUNGO, AS MINISTER COMMISSIONS MORE PROJECTS IN GOMBE

The Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmed, has commissioned and handed over major development projects executed by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in Gombe State, including 250-capacity student hostels in Kumo and Kaltungo, collectively providing 500 bed spaces for students.

The Minister led the commissioning and inspection tour alongside members of the NEDC Board and the Managing Director, reiterating the Federal Government’s resolute determination to deliver infrastructure, education, and healthcare development in the country.

At the handover ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Gombe State, His Excellency Manasseh Daniel Jatau, formally received the 250-bed hostel at the Government Science Technical College, Kumo, and the 250-bed hostel at the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Kaltungo, on behalf of the state government.

Deputy Governor Jatau commended the NEDC for its impactful interventions, assuring that the facilities would be properly maintained and fully utilised to enhance student welfare and access to quality education across the state.

Within the Gombe metropolis, the Minister commissioned several NEDC-funded projects, including a 40-bed maternity complex at Bogo Quarters, a 40-bed maternity complex at Billiri, two Central Medical Stores, four lecture halls at Gombe State University, 10 senior staff quarters, and key secondary school infrastructure. The delegation also visited critical facilities at the Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH), Gombe, including the MRI housing facility, ENT unit, and trauma centre.

The Minister further inspected the ongoing construction of two NEDC-funded bridges in Gombe, aimed at improving connectivity, easing transportation challenges, and boosting economic activities within the state.

Hon. Uba Maigari Ahmed reiterated that NEDC interventions remain people-focused, sustainable, and aligned with the Federal Government’s broader regional development agenda.

The commissioning and inspection exercise took place over Saturday, 7th and Sunday, 8th February 2026, covering projects within and outside Gombe town.

Sani Datti

Head Information and Public Relations

MINISTER OF STATE COMMISSIONS SEVERAL PROJECTS IN BAUCHI STATE

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

PRESS RELEASE 

7TH FEBRUARY 2026

MINISTER OF STATE COMMISSIONS SEVERAL PROJECTS IN BAUCHI STATE

The Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmed, has commissioned approximately 10 projects executed by the North East Development Commission and inspected other ongoing projects in Bauchi State between February 4 and 6, 2026. The projects which were all handed over to the state government, cover critical sectors, including education, health, infrastructure, agriculture, and markets, all designed to improve the welfare and living standards of the people in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President.

The minister, who first paid a courtesy visit to Governor Bala Mohammed, stated that the delegation was in the state to commission and inspect completed and ongoing projects being executed by the NEDC across the state. He commended the president for his commitment to regional development.

Uba Maigari noted that the delegation comprised officials from the Ministry of Regional Development, members of the National Assembly, the NEDC Board, and senior management staff responsible for policy direction, funding oversight, and day-to-day administration of the Commission.

In receiving the minister and the delegation, His Excellency, Governor Bala Mohammed, applauded the NEDC team for their hard work and professionalism. He observed that the Commission’s interventions are visible and meaningful across the state, adding that the NEDC interventions have complemented state efforts and accelerated progress in critical sectors.

The commissioned projects include: a newly constructed NEDC State Office, a mega School Dungel along Jos Road, a Medical Emergency Complex at ATBUTH, a modern fire service station and truck at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU), Gubi Campus, and renovated GSS Yelwan Duguri, Bauchi.

Other projects are: two Primary Health Centres in Yashi and Shira, a renovated school in Maina Maji, an ultra-modern cattle market in Alkaleri LGA, and the commissioning of Kalajanga-Bara-Tashan Turmi Bridges along Bauchi-Gombe Road. 

The Minister also inspected the ongoing project at GSS Bauchi, comprising 2 blocks of classrooms, an administration block and a laboratory, as well as the ongoing project of the Gombe Abba-Kirfi Road.

Sani Datti 

Head Information and Public Relations

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND EUROPEAN UNION PARTNER TO ADVANCE REGIONAL PROJECTS

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

22ND OCTOBER 2025

PRESS RELEASE 

MINISTRY OF REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND EUROPEAN UNION PARTNER TO ADVANCE REGIONAL PROJECTS

The Honourable Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, has reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the European Union (EU) and other development partners. He made this known during a courtesy visit by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gautier Mignot, to the Ministry today, 22nd October 2025, in Abuja.

The visit, which centred on strategic alignment and partnership, served as a platform for both the Ministry and the EU to explore ways to strengthen cooperation in achieving sustainable regional development across the country. “Our mandate is unequivocal; there are meaningful developments we need your support for,” the Minister stated.

Welcoming the Ambassador, Engr. Momoh expressed optimism that the EU would play a vital role in supporting the Ministry’s work. “Our Ministry is dynamic in its operations as it covers all regions of the country. We are closely coordinating the work of  Regional Development Commissions to ensure that the right projects are executed to meet the needs of each region,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of technical assistance from the EU, particularly in manpower training, institutional capacity-building, and defining a clear operational focus for the Ministry. “We would appreciate EU support in manpower development to strengthen our coordination and implementation capacity. Our previous engagements with other development partners have been strategic and impactful, and we believe this collaboration will further build on that foundation,” he added.

Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, described the visit as timely, coming at a period when the Ministry is consolidating its mandate across all regions. He explained that the Ministry, which evolved from the former Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, now oversees seven regional development commissions — three in the North and four in the South.

“We see this as an excellent opportunity to strengthen partnerships. Our commitment remains steadfast in driving development initiatives that span the environment, agriculture, housing, and human capacity development,” he noted.

The Minister of State further highlighted progress on the North-East Development Master Plan and the Ministry’s collaboration with the Northern Governors’ Forum to promote inclusive regional growth. “We have cultivated a strong relationship with the governors to ensure a unified regional development initiative. For instance, the proposal for a regional airline in the North-East and rail line, as well as plans to renovate two secondary schools per senatorial zone under the PBED programme, are among our practical steps toward sustainable growth,” he stated.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Dr Mary Ogbe, reaffirmed the Ministry’s readiness to sustain effective collaboration with international partners. She disclosed ongoing discussions with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to organise a roundtable meeting aimed at developing a comprehensive master plan for the regional development commissions. “The UNDP has shown great interest in working with us to create a master plan and provide manpower training for the commissions,” Dr Ogbe explained.

On his part, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Gautier Mignot, commended the Ministry’s strategic vision and expressed the EU’s interest in supporting its initiatives. “The purpose of our visit is to understand how work will begin and how the regional development commissions can be further strengthened. It is important to focus on priority projects that unify the regions,” Ambassador Mignot stated.

He further noted that the EU is open to exploring new areas of cooperation, including investments and financial support aimed at boosting productivity through the Regional Development Strategy.

The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a technical working group to identify key priority areas and define mechanisms for EU support.

Sani Datti

Head, Information & Public Relations