FG Unveils 5-Year National Regional Devt Policy, Says Document Will Guide Operations

Nigeria's federal government has unveiled a five-year National Regional Development Policy, designed to guide the operations of the nation's regional development commissions. The policy comes after the inauguration of the first two batches of these commissions in February and August 2025. Regional Development Minister Abubakar Momoh stated that the ministry previously lacked a formal policy framework, which had prompted inquiries from international agencies and development partners seeking clarity on its strategic direction.

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We came to brief the National Economic Council on the National Regional Development Policy. Since the inauguration of the first set of regional development commissions in February 2025 and the second set in August 2025, the ministry has not had a policy document to guide its operations.

Momoh explained that the policy's development involved technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and a committee coordinated by the Permanent Secretary. Consultations and validation exercises were conducted across the country's six geopolitical zones to ensure broad stakeholder participation. The policy's presentation to the National Economic Council (NEC) marks a significant step toward its final approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC).

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Several international and development partners requested the ministry’s policy framework, but we were unable to provide one because it did not exist.

Governors at the NEC meeting generally supported the initiative, though some raised constitutional questions. Momoh addressed these concerns by highlighting that the commissions were established through Acts of the National Assembly and are legally constituted institutions, having undergone extensive legislative scrutiny.

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A number of governors supported the policy and commended the initiative. Some also raised constitutional issues. However, these commissions were established through Acts of the National Assembly and duly constituted by the President.