By The Minister of State for Regional Development, Barr. Uba Maigari, has reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to accelerating development across the North East, in line with efforts being implemented in other regions of the country.
Speaking with journalists in Jalingo, the minister said the President is fully aware of the developmental setbacks facing the region and has demonstrated a strong resolve to reverse the trend.
He revealed that over the past two years, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) has executed numerous people-oriented projects across the six states of the region, aimed at rebuilding infrastructure and improving livelihoods.
Maigari noted that nearly two decades of insecurity severely hampered growth and development in the North East, creating significant socio-economic challenges.
However, he stressed that the current administration has made substantial progress in addressing insecurity as a foundation for sustainable development.
“Let us tell ourselves the truth. The bulk of the security challenges confronting the country were concentrated in the North East for a very long time. Naturally, you cannot achieve meaningful development under such conditions,” he said.
He explained that the administration first prioritized tackling insecurity and has now shifted focus to deliberate and strategic development interventions.
“I recently completed a tour with the North East Development Commission where we inspected, commissioned, and handed over projects to various state governors across the region. I must say the achievements are impressive. And this is just one agency. The Ministry of Regional Development is also working assiduously, alongside other ministries such as Works and Education, to deliver critical infrastructure,” he added.
The minister expressed optimism that the region is on the path to what he described as a “massive infrastructural revolution.” He urged residents to support government initiatives, take ownership of completed projects, and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
“We must be bold enough to stand against those who seek to keep the region in perpetual chaos. The people must refuse to harbour criminal elements and instead support security efforts,” he emphasized.
On concerns about the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state, Maigari dismissed the idea as unrealistic.
“Such notions may apply in very small countries, but not in a large and diverse nation like Nigeria. Nigeria can never become a one-party state. What we are witnessing is simply a vote of confidence in the President due to his prudent management and willingness to take bold decisions that previous administrations avoided,” he said.
He maintained that the ongoing reforms and policies of the administration would, in time, yield tangible benefits for all Nigerians.
“As we speak, the changes are beginning to manifest. Even those who may not see them now may eventually agree that these decisions were taken for the ultimate good of the country,” he stated.
