The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has outlined its priorities and plans to drive sustainable development across the region.
Speaking at a maiden press briefing on Wednesday in Lafia, Nasarawa State, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Dr. Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, said the NCDC is committed to addressing critical infrastructure and social challenges across the six North Central states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The Commission, established by an Act of the National Assembly and inaugurated on August 28, 2025, is mandated to implement projects in key sectors including roads, health, education, housing, agriculture, industrialisation, water supply, electricity, and telecommunications.
SPONSOR AD
It is also tasked with tackling ecological problems arising from mining and mineral exploration in the region.
Dr. Tsenyil expressed appreciation to the governors of the North Central states, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and traditional leaders for their support since the Commission’s inauguration. He also acknowledged the Nasarawa State Government for donating and furnishing the Commission’s new headquarters in Lafia.
Following its inaugural board meeting, the NCDC approved the establishment of 13 committees to oversee different aspects of its operations, adoption of its 2025 budget estimates, and plans for a policy development retreat in October. The Commission also announced that it would embark on state-wide tours and meet with North Central governors in Abuja to harmonise development strategies.
“We are mindful of the areas that need immediate attention in the lives of the people of the North Central region. These cut across roads and bridges, resettlement and rehabilitation, economic recovery, health, housing, water and energy, peace and security, education, environmental restoration, transportation, and agriculture,” Dr. Tsenyil said.
He stressed that the Commission would not duplicate projects of federal or state governments but rather focus on filling development gaps to promote integrated growth.
“We assure the people of the North Central Region that we will be fair and carry every state along in our operations. While we give every state its due share of projects and programmes, we will not give room for sentiments of faith, tribe or ethnicity. As far as we are concerned, we are one North Central,” he added.
The NCDC leadership reaffirmed its readiness to work with stakeholders and the media to ensure transparency and deliver on its mandate.
