MBJF lauds Tinubu for assent to North Central development bill

The Middle Belt Journalists Forum (MBJF) on Friday highly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the bill establishing the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) in to law.

The forum also expressed gratitude to the executive governors of the North Central geopolitical zone for pushing the initiative to a logical conclusion, and the National Assembly for standing with the president to ensure that the bill received presidential assent.

Recall that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had on Wednesday, assented to the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) bill which was approved by the tenth Senate since 2024, and passed into law. The bill seeks to, among other things, address the challenges of underdevelopment in the geopolitical region.

A release signed by Mark Mayah, the National President and Ladi Emmanuel, National Secretary -MBJF stated that “we immensely commend you for your role in the notable and pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to address various pressing challenges including infrastructure deficit, insecurity and economic downturns. The timely response of your government would no doubt make lasting positive impact.

“The people of the North Central geopolitical zone have long hoped and awaited this crucial moment. It is therefore heartwarming to see that our yearnings and aspirations have been recognised by the Renewed Hope Agenda of your administration. To us, it is a soothing balm.

“The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) assuring represents hope for our distraught people and their communities which have for many decades, suffered immeasurable destruction and severe losses due to sustained attacks by marauding herdsmen. The establishment of the commission has invariably confirmed your commitment to listening to the shrieking and cravings of the people of the region.”

While expressing optimism that the NCDC would achieve its objectives, the MBJF calls for positive collaboration from all and sundry from the region to ensure that the commission effectively and efficiently implements its mandate.

The MBJF also enjoins the good people of the region to support policies and programmes of the Tinubu-led Federal Government, as they are geared towards the socio-economic development of the people of Nigeria.

“As men and women of the fourth estate of the realm, we pledge our unflinching commitment to airing the activities of your administration towards the commission when it finally kicks off.

“Thank you, Mr. President, once again, for demonstrating unwavering allegiance to the welfare of our people.”