Proposed budget of N2.4 trillion for regional commissions in the new fiscal year has sparked widespread outrage, particularly over the exclusion of the North-Central geopolitical zone.
The budget includes significant allocations for other regions, but left out the North-Central, fueling calls for more inclusion and equity.
The budget proposal outlines allocations for various regional development commissions, including N585.9 billion for the North West Development Commission, N498.4 billion for the South West Development Commission, N341.2 billion for the South East Development Commission and N291billion for the North East Development Commission.
However, no provision was made for the North-Central region which raised concerns about fairness and political representation.
Reacting to the development, the North-Central People’s Forum, through its Secretary-General, Mr Khaleel Bolaji, expressed frustration with the exclusion.
Bolaji, who highlighted the region’s long history of marginalisation, said it was not expected that allocations would be made to regions without final presidential approval of their commissions, which he believes should have been the case for the South-West and North-Central.
Calling for the inclusion of the North-Central in the budget, Bolaji emphasised the need for equitable development across all regions.
He emphasised his discontent over the exclusion, which has also fueled criticism within political circles.
The forum’s spokesman noted that the region, with its six states and the Federal Capital Territory, had long been seen as a critical player in maintaining the unity of the country, with its diverse ethnic groups and strategic location at the heart of the nation.
Bolaji’s call for unity and inclusion echoes the broader sentiment that Nigeria’s development should not be at the expense of one region over another.
The North-Central has contributed significantly to the country’s political, economic and social fabric, and its citizens continue to demand their fair share of the nation’s resources. The exclusion from the 2025 budget is seen as a stark reminder of the need for a more inclusive approach to national development.
With the budget still under review, there is an opportunity for the National Assembly to make amendments and make provisions for the North-Central Development Commission.
Similarly, spokesmen of the region, Mr. Sule-Dikcson Audu said the North-Central has faced numerous challenges, including insecurity, environmental crises and economic setbacks.
Noting that the exclusion could have been an oversight, he advocated for the inclusion of the region to ensure fair treatment in national development.
He explained that the North-Central Development Commission would complement the efforts of the state and federal governments, especially in addressing regional developmental challenges.
Activists and political leaders from the region are hopeful that the issue will be addressed before the budget is finalized.
As discussion continues on the budget, the region remains resolute in its demand for fair treatment, while urging the federal government and the National Assembly to prioritise the developmental needs of the North-Central geopolitical zone.
With the budget still under review, it is believed that the National Assembly will address the exclusion by making required budgetary allocation for the commission in the spirit of fairness and national development.
