Federal Government Launches Initiative for Regional Economic Diversification
The Federal Government has placed a strong emphasis on the need for economic diversification and self-sufficiency across the country’s seven regions. This directive was outlined in a communique released by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Sani Datti, following a two-day retreat hosted by the Ministry of Regional Development in collaboration with the regional development commissions. The event took place in Benin City, Edo State.
The retreat, titled “Generating Fresh Ideas to Unlock the Potential of the Regions,” brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including government officials, representatives from the National Assembly, development partners, and senior public sector leaders. The gathering aimed to chart a clear path for accelerated regional development while addressing critical challenges facing the country’s regions.
According to the communique, one of the central themes of the retreat was the importance of strengthening governance systems and enhancing institutional collaboration. It also highlighted the need for new financing pathways to support sustainable development. A consensus emerged that Nigeria’s regional development architecture must evolve to deliver measurable economic impact.
Participants stressed the importance of adhering to governance frameworks such as the Public Procurement Act, Public Service Rules, international accounting standards, and the Code of Conduct. These measures are seen as essential to restoring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery.
Key Resolutions from the Retreat
The retreat produced several far-reaching resolutions aimed at transforming the operations of the regional development commissions. These include:
- Strengthening the oversight functions of governing boards
- Institutionalising capacity-building programmes
- Ensuring alignment between annual procurement plans and budget cycles
A major focus of the discussions was the push for economic diversification and self-sufficiency across the regions. The commissions were directed to invest in revenue-generating assets beyond statutory allocations. Additionally, there is a need to scale up skills acquisition programmes in areas such as agriculture and small-scale enterprise development to create jobs and stimulate local economies.
Stakeholder engagement across the regions was also identified as a priority. The communique emphasized the need for structured interactions on budgets, projects, and service delivery within the constituent states. This includes involving key actors such as governors, traditional rulers, youth groups, and women’s associations.
Infrastructure and Development Partnerships
Infrastructure development emerged as a critical priority during the retreat. Participants underscored the need for investments in electricity generation, intermodal transport systems, industrial clusters, and logistics networks to unlock trade and enhance regional competitiveness. These interventions are expected to strengthen linkages between production zones and both domestic and international markets.
Another significant outcome of the retreat was the call for stronger engagement with development partners. The ministry committed to convening a development partner engagement forum within six months. Each commission is also to designate a dedicated officer to facilitate access to international funding, grants, and concessional financing aligned with climate resilience and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Commitment to Accountability and Coordination
At the close of the retreat, the Minister for Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, reiterated the ministry’s pledge to drive coordinated, results-oriented regional growth. He emphasized the need for regular, close coordination between the ministry, the commissions, board members, and management through smaller, more frequent engagements.
Momoh added, “Once a managing director signs the performance bond, accountability becomes non-negotiable as you are required to report consistently and transparently on your deliverables.”
Finalising the National Regional Development Policy
The retreat further reinforced the urgency of finalising and implementing the National Regional Development Policy 2026–2030. This policy will serve as the central framework guiding strategic plans, annual work programmes, and budget execution across all commissions.
An inter-agency implementation committee is expected to be established to monitor progress and ensure policy coherence. This step is crucial for aligning regional development efforts with national goals and ensuring long-term sustainability.
