FG Tasks Regional Commissions with Coordination, Project Completion

In a clear directive aimed at enhancing efficiency and accountability, Nigeria's Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, has issued a stern warning to regional development commissions. As reported by The Punch, Momoh’s message, delivered during a sectoral retreat in Benin, Edo State, emphasizes the critical need to conclude existing projects before embarking on new ventures. This directive directly addresses persistent challenges of project abandonment and resource wastage that have plagued development initiatives across the regions.

“

One of the recurring challenges we face is duplication of efforts, uncompleted projects, and inter-agency rivalry.

The minister’s admonition against 'duplication of efforts and inter-agency rivalry' is particularly significant. These issues often lead to fragmented progress and hinder the coordinated approach necessary for meaningful regional transformation. By insisting that new projects commence only after existing ones are 'substantially completed and assessed for impact,' Momoh seeks to instill a culture of completion and measurable outcomes. This focus aligns with President Bola Tinubu's vision of leveraging geo-spatial development for multi-sectoral, area-based transformation.

“

This has to stop. New projects must only commence when existing ones are substantially completed and assessed for impact.

Furthermore, the retreat, themed “Fresh ideas to unlock the potential of the region,” served as a platform to reiterate the core mandate of these commissions: to drive economic and social progress through targeted interventions. Momoh urged the commissions to prioritize key areas such as infrastructure, healthcare, security, and empowerment, ensuring their efforts contribute to the national objective of 'equitable and sustainable development.' The proposed introduction of a peer review system aims to foster healthy competition and continuous improvement, reinforcing the commitment to delivering tangible results for the regions and their inhabitants. This proactive approach signals a renewed determination to unlock Nigeria's regional potential.

“

I will also admonish the regional development commissions to ensure they complete a project before embarking on another.