By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Minister of State for Regional Development, Alhaji Uba Maigari Ahmadu, has commissioned and handed over infrastructural projects constructed by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in Konduga, Jere, and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
“It is with great honor and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today here in Maiduguri, the heart of resilience and rebirth in the North East,” Minister Maigari said.
He extended his deepest condolences to the government and people of Borno State over the recent loss of lives and displacement resulting from the tragic flooding incident due to the spill from the Alau Dam.
“We stand in solidarity with you during this difficult time and reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting relief and long-term resilience efforts,” he added.
The Minister outlined the Ministry’s plans to work closely with the North East Governors Forum on several initiatives, including the establishment of a North East Regional Airline, a North East Rail Line linking the region to the Calabar Port, a North East Pharmaceutical Company to locally produce essential medicines, and a North East Power Generation and Distribution Company to ensure energy security.
Additionally, the Ministry plans to introduce a North East Integrated Feed Mill and Poultry Company to drive agro-industrial growth and a North East Civil Engineering Company to create jobs and retain construction expertise within the region.
“The establishment of the NEDC was borne out of the need to rebuild and stabilize the region after years of insurgency and economic disruption. It reflects our shared vision for sustainable peace, development, and prosperity in the North East,” Maigari said.
The Minister highlighted the Ministry’s focus on several critical sectors, including education, health, agriculture, infrastructure, ICT, transport, and logistics, as well as humanitarian response. Some of the initiatives include the “Brick to Bed” initiative to convert dilapidated schools to safe learning spaces, construction of 50-bed Women & Children Hospitals in each senatorial district, and promotion of carbon credits and climate-smart transport systems.
“Today’s handing over of completed projects by the NEDC is a testament to that vision. It aligns with the broader North East Stabilization and Development Plan (NESDP) and the 25-year Borno State Development Master Plan, which provides a long-term framework for social, infrastructural, and economic transformation,” he said.
“The future of the North East is bright, with unity of purpose, the commitment of our leaders, and the resilience of our people, we will rebuild a region that is not only stable but thriving,” Maigari added.
In his response, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed his appreciation to the Minister and NEDC for the projects. “We pledge to utilize these projects judiciously and properly for the benefit of the people of Borno State,” he said. Governor Zulum also charged journalists to be responsible and objective in their reportage, especially in security reports, noting that they are critical stakeholders in national security and national interest.
