……Inaugurates Second Phase of Jere-Bowl Road Construction and Agricultural Inputs Distribution
By Fatima Saka
Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated the federal government’s resolute commitment to fostering economic revival and progress in the North East region of the nation.
Senator Shettima emphasized that the revitalization and reshaping of the narrative of the North-East region can only be achieved through collective effort.
The Vice President made this declaration on Wednesday while commencing the construction of the new headquarters building of the North East Development Commission.
He mentioned that the event was a manifestation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge, a confirmation of his dedication, and a reinforcement of the significance of the North-East region to the country.
VP Shettima expressed his deep honor to witness the commencement of a legacy of service that transcends the presence of all those in attendance.
In his address to the audience, he stated, “NEDC is a product of the populace, and it shall promote the interests of the nation. It is this fundamental principle that steers the NEDC. Consequently, this institution epitomizes our joint determination to alter the narrative of this region—from one tainted by hopelessness and ruin to one characterized by regeneration and victory.
“Today signifies a manifestation of our pledge, an assurance of our dedication, and a reminder of the importance of this sub-region to the nation.”
The VP elucidated that the foundation-laying ceremony was a stride towards fulfilling President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to prioritizing initiatives that safeguard the interests of the North East region.
“This commitment is not just a political vow but a moral duty to the individuals who have endured so much and merit nothing less than a future characterized by peace, stability, and prosperity,” he articulated.
The Vice President underscored that the new headquarters transcends mere infrastructure, embodying the vigor of the nation’s collective resolve to reconstruct, reinstate, and surmount the challenges that have impeded the region’s progress.
“This headquarters shall epitomize the fortitude of our mutual aspirations as a populace with shared goals. As we lay this foundation, we do so with a vision of a North-East that is lively, resilient, and forward-thinking.
“We do so envisioning our contributions to constructing a nation where every child has access to top-notch education, where healthcare is within reach of all, where infrastructure buttresses thriving economies, and where peace and security are the cornerstone of everyday life,” he appended.
The Vice President also evaluated the advancement of the initial phase of construction on the 27km Jere Bowl Road Network in Mafa/Jere local government area, at the same time as he initiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the second phase of the project.
The projects, Senator Shettima pointed out, reaffirm the federal government’s commitment to the growth and prosperity of Borno State.
“This project signifies our dedication to enhancing the livelihoods of our populace, boosting security, and fostering economic expansion. It is a testament to our unwavering determination to construct a Nigeria where every citizen, irrespective of their location, has the chance to flourish,” he underscored.
Regarding the significance of the project, Senator Shettima expounded: “A robust road network expedites the process of urbanization. As rural areas become more accessible, we will witness the development of new urban centers, leading to better access to education, healthcare, and other essential services.
“Each road we construct bolsters security, commerce, and agriculture. They enhance the standard of living for our populace. Without a reliable network of roads, we cannot fulfill our promises to the people, nor can we sustain our democracy. The full participation of remote communities in our nation’s development hinges on a dependable road network.”
Emphasizing the socio-economic importance of Borno State to the North East region, the Vice President further stated that the “economic agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is rooted in supporting each state of the federation in achieving its objectives and fulfilling our promises to the nation.
“Borno State plays a pivotal role in our nation’s economy and will always remain a top priority in our endeavors to stabilize and foster unity and peace across the nation,” he concluded.
Earlier, Gombe State Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, who is also the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum, commended Vice President Shettima for mobilizing support for the seamless operations of the NEDC.
“We are exceedingly proud of your leadership in the North East region by ensuring the smooth commencement of this project and enhancing the operations of the NEDC,” Governor Yahaya expressed.
He urged Governors and other stakeholders from the North East states to collaborate towards achieving the objectives of the NEDC.
The Governor, however, lamented the devastating impact of the Boko Haram insurgency, which he said set the North East zone back by 50 years.
“We, therefore, need to strive to recover the lost ground, and with Vice President Shettima’s inspiration and support, we can achieve that,” he concluded.
The Governor of Borno State, Usman Kadafur, on his part, commended the commendable work done by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) in the six states of the region.
“The efforts of the NEDC are regarded as a highly successful narrative and it is the pride of the various state governments across the North East region,” he remarked, regretting that the Boko Haram insurgency had a pervasive impact on the region, with Borno State bearing the brunt.
He, however, highlighted that the Borno State government took decisive measures by unveiling comprehensive strategies that have significantly contributed to addressing the menace.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Governing Board of NEDC, Major General Paul Tarfa (rtd), mentioned that the laying of the foundation for the construction of a fitting headquarters has inaugurated a new chapter in the history of the Commission, symbolizing growth.
Earlier while welcoming guests, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Engr. Mohammed Goni Alkali, stated that the event was a milestone in the history of NEDC and the entire North East region.
He observed that the master plan for the North East is in harmony with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.
He also called for cooperation and synergy among stakeholders to actualize its objectives.
Engr. Alkali outlined the amenities of the proposed NEDC headquarters to include offices, conference rooms, a sick bay, and a humanitarian center, among others.
There were messages of goodwill from the Chairmen of both the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Special Duties, whose committees oversee the activities of the NEDC, as they pledged further support for the Commission.
In a related event, the Vice President also initiated the distribution of farming equipment and inputs.
Other dignitaries present at the event included Yobe State Deputy Governor Alhaji Barde Gubana; Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Sen. Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Mines and Steel Development Uba Maigari; the Shehu of Borno Abubakar Ibn Garbai, and Emir of Fika Dr. Muhammadu Idrissa, among others.
