The North Central States Elders Council (NSCEC) has described the creation of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) as a historic opportunity to unify and develop the region.
Speaking at its inaugural meeting in Abuja yesterday,Former Senate President, Ameh Ebute, who chaired the meeting, said the new commission marks a turning point for the region, long plagued by underrepresentation and fragmentation.
“The North Central consists of an agglomeration of tribes.
“This, in my opinion, has made it difficult for us to come together.”
Ebute stressed that the time had come for the region to consolidate and define its political and developmental priorities.
“With the creation of the Commission, we must speak with one voice,” he declared.
“The Presidency has gone around most zones. North Central has never produced a President. It is time we pressed our political interests.”
The North Central Development Commission was recently approved by President Bola Tinubu, fulfilling a long-standing demand from stakeholders in the region.
General Lawrence Onoja (Rtd),outlined the NSCEC’s purpose as a non-partisan, non-ethnic and non-religious advisory body.
“Our role is to advise the Commission on promoting unity and peace.
“We want to build bridges among ethnic groups and ensure security and inclusive growth”,Onoja said.
He added that the council would serve as a conflict prevention mechanism through regular consultations with communities and stakeholders.
Former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, described the Commission as “long overdue”.
“We thank Mr President for equipping the North Central with this vital institution.The Commission will help unlock the region’s vast development potential,she said .
She hailed the North Central as “the heart of Nigeria” and praised the council’s efforts to unite voices across the zone.
