ACF Thrilled By Development Commissions In The North

By Ayodele Oni

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed the hope that establishing Development Commissions in the three geo-political zones of the Northern region will further boost socio economic development of the areas.

ACF commended the Federal Government for the move, and expressed hope that appointments into the Commissions will not be politicised.

Chairman of the Forum, Mamman Mike Osuman, gave the commendation when members of the forum paid a courtesy visit to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya in Gombe.

According to him, the establishment of the North East, North West, and North Central Development commissions would reduce poverty, inequality, enhance infrastructure and social amenities in the regions, as well as improving living standards for people in the areas.

Mr Osuman added that the commissions are similar to the New Nigeria Development Company, which was created in 1949, and boosted North’s commercial and industrial development.

While highlighting the potential for economic growth, he cautioned against politicising appointments within the commissions.

“Politicising the commissions could undermine their purpose. As such, appointments should be based on merit to preserve the integrity of these development initiatives.”

Mr Osuman also urged unity among northern governments and citizens to address regional challenges.

Earlier, the Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, stated that the delegation was in Gombe to brief the governor on the ACF’s activities and plans to revitalise its core mandate.

Responding, Governor Yahaya reaffirmed the commitment of the 19 northern governors to tackle the regional challenges, pointing out that the North is rich in resources to drive its development.

He stressed the urgent need for collective action to tackle the challenges facing Northern Nigeria, particularly insecurity and underdevelopment.