The Honourable Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Abdullahi Ata, extends heartfelt congratulations to Professor Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji on his well-deserved appointment as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the North West Development Commission (NWDC).
This significant appointment reflects Professor Ma’aji’s extensive experience and unwavering commitment to the development of the North West region.
The Minister also expresses profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership in establishing the NWDC, a testament to his dedication to the inclusive growth and development of every part of Nigeria. The NWDC stands as a pivotal initiative to address the unique challenges faced by the North West geopolitical zone.
Despite its vast potential, the North West region has been grappling with significant developmental challenges. According to the 2019 poverty headcount data, states like Sokoto and Zamfara had the highest percentages of people living below the poverty line, underscoring the pressing need for targeted interventions in the region.
The establishment of the NWDC is poised to catalyze transformative change across critical sectors:
- Education: Enhancing educational infrastructure and access to quality learning opportunities to empower the youth and foster human capital development.
- Healthcare: Improving healthcare facilities and services to ensure the well-being of the populace, thereby reducing health-related vulnerabilities.
- Agriculture and Food Security: Promoting aggressive food production through modern techniques to achieve food sufficiency and stimulate economic growth.
- Infrastructure Development: Investing in roads, housing, water supply, and electricity to create an enabling environment for economic activities and improve the quality of life.
The Minister is confident in Professor Ma’aji’s leadership to steer the NWDC, especially during its formative years, to implement these initiatives effectively. His track record of excellence and dedication positions him as the ideal leader to drive the Commission’s mandate.
The NWDC’s strategy could unlock significant economic growth, transform the lives of its citizens, and position the region as a key player in Nigeria’s national development.
Hon. Ata emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among all stakeholders to ensure the success of the NWDC’s initiatives. By working together, the narrative of the North West can shift from one of challenges to a story of resilience, growth, and prosperity.
In conclusion, the Minister reiterates his congratulations to Prof. Ma’aji and reaffirms the Ministry’s support for the NWDC’s mission. With visionary leadership and collective commitment, the North West region is poised for a new era of accelerated development and improved quality of life for its residents.
Credit: Seyi Olorunsola
