It might sound amazing to say that the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) is rebuilding the North-East from the rubbles of Boko Haram/Islamic State of West African Province (ISWAP) terror and other related predicaments bedeviling the region.
To all stakeholders in the region’s affairs, it is most-striking to review the expansive array of concrete achievements the agency has recorded in its six years of operation in rebuilding the region across all sectors of development.
It would require volumes to roll out these achievements. It is, however, pertinent to slice out of that expansive array a sizeable portion that could present a fascinating modicum to show that the commission is discharging its statutory mandate by demonstrating its profound commitment to rebuilding the region through strategic and impactful initiatives across the six-state region.
The recent commissioning and handover of the state-of-the-art Arikime Mega School in Potiskum Local Government Area, Yobe State, is a shining example of the Commission’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing education in the North-East.
The two-storey Arikime Mega School, accommodating both Primary and Junior Secondary School students, is a transformative intervention aimed at decongesting overcrowded classrooms, improving access to quality education, and fostering a conducive learning environment.
The project was commissioned by the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu Bello, and handed over to the Yobe State Government, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Baba Malam Wali, mni, on behalf of Governor Mai Mala Buni.
Mohammed Goni Alkali’s announcement of two additional mega school projects in Gashua, Bade LGA, and Buni Yadi, Gujba LGA, reflects the NEDC’s commitment to holistic and inclusive development.
The smiles on the faces of the Arikime pupils who warmly welcomed the NEDC team underscored the profound impact of these interventions, rekindling hope and enthusiasm among young learners who have long endured the harsh realities of the insurgency.
Education, one of the worst-hit sectors during the insurgency, suffered immense destruction of infrastructure, depriving countless children of their right to learn and grow.
The NEDC’s unwavering efforts in reconstructing and equipping schools go beyond physical buildings—they represent a pathway to recovery, resilience, and renewal for communities in the North-East.
Baba Malam Wali, speaking on behalf of the Yobe State Government, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the NEDC’s dedication to education and other critical sectors.
He lauded the Commission for its collaboration with the state in addressing key developmental challenges and uplifting the standard of living for residents.
The Arikime Mega School stands as a beacon of hope, signifying the region’s determination to rebuild, educate, and empower its future generations.
Through these strategic interventions, Mohammed Goni Alkali and the NEDC are not just reconstructing schools—they are reconstructing dreams, aspirations, and a brighter future for the North-East.
The efforts of the NEDC in education, health, infrastructure, and livelihood restoration remain a source of inspiration and a model of effective governance in post-crisis recovery. As the Commission continues its mission, the people of the North-East will forever hold its contributions in high esteem.
Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari, recently commissioned and handed over a total of 13 infrastructural projects constructed by the North East Development Commission (NEDC) worth more than six billion naira to the Borno State government.
The exercise which took place on Wednesday were witnessed by the Chairman House Committee on NEDC and member representing Gubio/Magumeri/Kaga federal constituency, Borno State, Usman Zannah, Chairman Board of the Commission, Major General Paul Tarfa (Rtd), Managing Director NEDC, Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali and other dignitaries
Unveiling the projects, Uba Maigari Ahmodu, State Minister of Regional Development, said: “The establishment of the NEDC was borne out of the need to rebuild and stabilize the region after years of insurgency and economic disruption. It reflects our shared vision for sustainable peace, development, and prosperity in the North East.”
He said the future of the North East is bright, with unity of purpose, the commitment of our leaders, and the resilience of our people, we will rebuild a region that is not only stable but thriving.
Responding,Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, expressed deep appreciation to the Federal Government and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for delivering multiple impactful projects aimed at rebuilding conflict-affected communities and enhancing social infrastructure in the state.
Zulum highlighted the significance of the interventions across key sectors such as healthcare, security, water supply, and governance restoration.
Among the flagship projects commissioned was the upgrading of the State Dental and Eye Hospital in Maiduguri to meet residency training standards in both dental surgery and ophthalmology.
“This is a major step forward in building our local human capacity in specialist healthcare delivery,” Zulum said. “We commend the NEDC for this timely intervention.”
Also inaugurated was the newly reconstructed Borno State Drug Management Agency, now equipped with a sustainable power supply to ensure proper storage of essential medicines. “We have the drugs,” the governor noted, “but without reliable electricity, we risk compromising their efficacy. This project closes that gap significantly.”
In a major boost for law enforcement and governance, the NEDC also delivered residential and administrative accommodations for police personnel in two local government areas previously overrun by Boko Haram. “These facilities are critical to restoring civil authority and law and order in these recovered areas,” the governor said.
Additionally, 60 boreholes were commissioned to address the pressing need for potable water across various communities. “Water is life,” Zulum emphasized. “Access to clean water is not only essential for survival but also for public health and livelihood restoration.”
Reiterating his administration’s long-term vision, Governor Zulum referenced the state’s 10-point agenda and 25-year Development Plan, noting that the NEDC’s interventions align well with Borno’s strategic pillars of security, livelihood recovery, housing, education, healthcare, and water supply.
He added: “The NEDC has touched almost every sector we are working on. While we appreciate what has been done, we urge a shift from short-term, non-sustainable projects to medium- and long-term, transformative investments. We have given the NEDC a vote of confidence and look forward to deeper collaboration.”
The minister also said that establishment of regional companies would help reduce over dependent of exports and provides job opportunities for the teeming youths, saying that his visit formed part of activities scheduled ahead of the commissioning of various projects executed by the North East Development Commission in Borno.
He said the project when completed will accelerate development and connect the region with countries in the lake Chad.
According to him, ” The ministry will work closely in collaboration with Northeast governors forum to attempt to turn around the fortunes of the region. We are looking at the possibility of within a very short time establish the North east regional airline to connect the state of the North east and maximise opportunities with our neighbors including Chad, Niger and Cameroon.
He assured, “We also have on the table the North east rail line to link the region and ultimately create trade opportunity and safeguard the lives and properties of our citizens while undertaken their routine businesses. The North east pharmaceutical company which will help in locally producing essentials including drugs and essential medicines and reduce dependency on import.
He added that “the Northeast power generation and distribution company is also on the table. We intend to take advantage of several water sources dams, and carnals, possibly to generate electricity and also set up a distribution unit to make money for the North east development commission.”
Speaking earlier, Mohammed Alkali, the managing director of the North East Development Commission, stated that the commission has completed various projects that are set to be handed over to the state government
He said: We are going to hand over about 60 boreholes constructed across the state, 3,509 Solar street lights, construction and fully equipped DSS ultra modern clinic, ICT centre for Monguno polytechnic, alot of building materials including blocks, zinc, ceilings, nails and wiring materials among others.”
Responding, Governor and Chairman of North East governors forum, Babagana Zulum appreciated the Federal Government’s commitment to the welfare of the people and its quest in ensuring stability in the North east after the over a decade of insurgency
“The tremendous support that you have been rendering to the good people of North east region. We appreciate and sincerely acknowledge the good work that you have been doing especially here in Borno State,” he said.
