Nigeria’s Regional Development Commissions will have ₦2.49 trillion from the 2025 Budget to work with.
The whooping sum was earmarked by the Federal Government, with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) receiving the largest share of ₦776.5 billion.
The Bola Tinubu-led Federal Executive Council established the Ministry of Regional Development in October 2024 to oversee regional development commissions nationwide.
Significant Allocation For Regional Growth
The government says the allocation of ₦2.49 trillion to commissions demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to driving growth and development.
Regional Allocation Breakdown
Niger Delta Development Commission: ₦776.5 billion
North-West Development Commission: ₦585.9 billion
South-West Development Commission: ₦498.4 billion
South-East Development Commission: ₦341.3 billion
North-East Development Commission: ₦291 billion
Controversy Surrounds North-Central Region’s Omission
Meanwhile, the North-Central region, comprising six states and the Federal Capital Territory, was left out of the allocation, sparking concerns about equity in federal allocations.
The omission has sparked widespread criticism, with many Nigerians demanding equity in federal allocations.
Furthermore, Mr. Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, has also criticised the Federal Government for omitting the non-existent North Central Development Commission from the 2025 budget proposal.
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The Way Forward
As the National Assembly reviews the 2025 budget proposal, it remains to be seen how this issue will be addressed.
Most importantly, people are demanding that the Federal Government must ensure equity and inclusion in federal allocations.
They believe this would drive growth and development across Nigeria.
