North Central Development Commission (NCDC), barely a month into its official establishment, has submitted a ₦140 billion budget proposal for the 2025 fiscal year as part of efforts to kickstart its operations and deliver developmental projects across the North Central region.
In a statement released on October 3, the Commission confirmed that it had defended the proposed budget before the Senate Committee overseeing the NCDC on September 30, during what it described as a “robust session.”
“The Commission’s management appeared before the Senate to defend the budget proposal and had a robust session where members of the Senate Committee on NCDC scrutinised the submission and received clarifications,” the statement read.
Following the session, the Senate Committee made observations and adjustments to the proposed allocations, ultimately granting preliminary approval—pending the concurrence of the House of Representatives.
The Commission clarified that while the overall budget figure of ₦140 billion remains unchanged, specific allocations published in some media reports do not reflect the adjustments made by the Senate Committee. These will be incorporated into the final document once the House completes its legislative scrutiny.
“The final budget approved will only be determined when the House of Representatives Committee on North Central Development Commission carries out its legislative scrutiny and concurs with the Senate, where the final figures and line distributions will be authenticated and released,” the Commission stated.
Describing the current budget as a “working document,” the NCDC emphasized that the final figures will align with the national budget cycle.
The Commission also reassured stakeholders of its commitment to transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to Nigeria’s financial regulations.
“While the NCDC appreciates public interest in and concerns for the successful takeoff and implementation of key projects that will impact the North Central region, the Commission wishes to assure its stakeholders and, indeed, the general public, that it will operate in a transparent and accountable manner,” said James Uloko, Executive Director of Corporate Services at the NCDC.
Uloko further noted that the Commission is committed to ensuring equity and inclusivity across all states in the region, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), by conducting thorough needs assessments and engaging in strategic consultations.
“In executing its mandate, the NCDC Management will work closely with all stakeholders across the North Central States and FCT to ensure equity and inclusivity,” he added.
The NCDC was recently established to drive infrastructure, economic growth, and social development in Nigeria’s North Central zone.
