The Senate, on Thursday, July 4, 2024, passed the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) bill, marking a significant legislative achievement. This development occurred after the Senate thoroughly reviewed the report from its Committee on Special Duties, which was presented by the committee’s chairman, Senator Kaka Shehu.
The bill, initially introduced by Senator Abba Moro, who represents the Benue South Senatorial District, garnered widespread support. Every senator from the North Central region co-sponsored the bill, reflecting the broad consensus on its importance.
The legislative journey of the NCDC bill began on October 5, 2023, when it was first introduced in the Senate. It subsequently passed its second reading on February 21, 2024, demonstrating the lawmakers’ commitment to fast-tracking its progress through the legislative process.
Senator Moro, the bill’s primary sponsor, expressed his deep gratitude for the bipartisan support it received. He emphasized the urgent necessity for establishing the commission, citing the North Central region’s pressing developmental deficits. According to Senator Moro, the creation of the NCDC is crucial for addressing the region’s longstanding issues related to poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and various social challenges.
The proposed NCDC is envisioned to emulate the successes of other regional development commissions in Nigeria. These commissions have historically played pivotal roles in mitigating poverty, bridging infrastructure gaps, and tackling social problems in their respective regions. By establishing the NCDC, lawmakers aim to provide a structured and focused approach to the developmental needs of the North Central region, ensuring sustainable growth and improved living standards for its residents.
With the Senate’s approval, the bill now moves to the House of Representatives for concurrence. If it secures approval there, the final step will be obtaining presidential assent, which will formally enact it into law. The establishment of the NCDC is expected to usher in a new era of development for the North Central region, addressing its unique challenges through targeted interventions and coordinated efforts.
The bipartisan support for the NCDC bill underscores a shared recognition among lawmakers of the critical need for focused regional development initiatives. The North Central region, which has faced numerous developmental challenges over the years, stands to benefit significantly from the commission’s establishment. The NCDC is anticipated to foster economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance social services, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the region’s population.
The passage of the NCDC bill by the Nigerian Senate on July 4 marks a pivotal step towards addressing the developmental needs of the North Central region. With continued support and successful passage through the House of Representatives, followed by presidential assent, the NCDC will become a reality, promising a brighter and more prosperous future for the region and its inhabitants.
