Peter Obi, the former governor of Anambra State, has criticized the exclusion of the North Central Development Commission from the 2025 budget estimates.
In a statement, yesterday, Obi said, “The exclusion of the North Central Regional Commission from the budgetary allocations provided to other Regional Commissions in the 2025 proposed budget is deeply troubling.”
Obi, who also called for the immediate reversal of the decision, said, “Such an anomaly does not make for even development and peace that is needed for progress in the country.”
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He explained that a total of N2.493 trillion had been allocated to five regional development commissions, notably excluding the North Central Regional Commission.
According to the Labour Party leader, “The North Central region requires special attention due to the severe challenges it faces today. Relentless terror attacks and banditry in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Niger States have caused immense suffering, resulting in significant loss of lives and forcing countless families into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
“These persistent tragedies have made the North Central one of the most affected and vulnerable regions in Nigeria.”
He emphasized that the North Central region, often referred to as the agricultural backbone of the nation, deserves strong support to improve security, stability, and development, ultimately benefiting the entire country.
“I, therefore, call on the government and National Assembly to urgently review and rectify this decision that will impact negatively on the region and area most needed for the development of the country.”