05/02/2025
NILDS Press Statement
5th February, 2025
DG NILDS Hails Presidential Assent To NCDC Bill.
The Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Prof. Abubakar Olanrewaju Sulaiman, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for the historic assent to the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Bill.
This is contained in a statement by his Media Adviser Mohammad Abdulkadri on Wednesday 5th February, 2025 where he described the move as a bold and visionary step that underscores the President’s unwavering commitment to equitable development, national integration, and inclusive governance.
Prof. Sulaiman noted that the North Central Region has long been a pillar of Nigeria’s political, economic, and social stability. However, despite its enormous contributions to the national growth, the region has faced significant developmental challenges, including infrastructure deficits, security concerns, and economic setbacks. According to him, the establishment of the NCDC is a major milestone that will provide a structured and sustainable framework to address these issues, rebuild critical infrastructure, create economic opportunities, and uplift the people of the region.
The former Minister of National Planning also acknowledged the collective efforts of key stakeholders in ensuring the passage of the bill. He extended his deep appreciation to the Leadership of the National Assembly, President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, GCON and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, (Ph.D) GCON, for their commitment to legislative excellence.
Prof. Sulaiman further recognized the contributions of the Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazak, CON, whose strategic advocacy and relentless push for the advancement of the region played a crucial role in ensuring the Presidential Assent to the bill .
Now that the bill has been signed into law, Prof. Sulaiman emphasized the need for effective implementation. He called on all relevant stakeholders—including the federal and state governments, traditional rulers, private sector players, and civil society organizations—to work together to ensure that the commission delivers on its mandate.
He further reiterated confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and vision, stating that the President’s commitment to fostering balanced development across all regions is highly commendable and will significantly contribute to national unity, economic growth, and social stability.
“This is a defining moment for the North Central Region, and I urge all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity to drive sustainable development for the benefit of our people,” Prof. Sulaiman stated.
Signed -
Mohammad Abdulkadri Anipr
Media Adviser To DG NILDS
