By Abdul Kareem

Bauchi, Nigeria – In a bid to assess the progress and quality of ongoing development projects in the Northeast subregion of Nigeria, the House of Representatives Committee on the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) recently conducted a comprehensive oversight function inspection.

The committee, led by its Chairman, Hon Usman Zannah, expressed immense satisfaction with the strides being made by the intervention commission.

Major Projects Underway:

House Committee chair, Usman Zannah (right), NEDC MD, Goni Alkali (middle) NEDC ED Fin/Admin, Garba Iliya during the inspection at Kalajanga, Bara tashan turmi Bridges

The inspection covered 31 major projects, each aimed at revitalizing the region’s infrastructure, healthcare, education, and overall socio-economic development. Among the notable projects are:

  1. Institute of Ophthalmology Complex at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi.
  2. Rehabilitation of Shira Healthcare in Alkaleri LGA.
  3. Completion of Community Health Care Center in Dagudi, Alkaleri LGA.
  4. Construction of Surgical Ward & Rehabilitation/Skills Acquisition at the National Obstetrics Center, Ningi.
  5. Construction and Equipping of a Triage Center at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi.
  6. Reconstruction of Culverts and Drainages on the Alkaleri-Futuk Road.
  7. Construction of Kirfi-Gombe Abba Road in Kirfi Gombe.
  8. Establishment of Three New Forestry Nurseries in Yashi (Alkaleri LGA), Bogoro LGA, and Bununu (Tafawa Balewa LGA).
  9. Construction of Input Stores, Toilets, Security Posts, Nursery Sheds, and Perimeter Fencing at three nursery sites in Jama’re, Darazo, and Nabordo (Toro LGA), Bauchi.

Additional projects include the drilling of boreholes across various locations, establishment of ICT training centers, and the construction of educational facilities such as the NEDC Mega Schools in various LGAs.

Kalajanga, Bara tashan turmi Bridges

A Vision for Sustainable Development:

Hon Usman Zannah commended the NEDC for its dedication to ensuring that the projects are not only on track but also of high quality.

“The progress and standards we have witnessed today are commendable. These projects will significantly impact the lives of our people, providing essential services and fostering economic growth,” Zannah stated.

The projects inspected also include the establishment of ICT training centers at Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic Bauchi, Bauchi State University (Gadau Campus), and the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, Misau. Other significant efforts include the construction of secondary and primary school blocks, administrative buildings, and staff quarters in various LGAs.

Newly completed Kirfi-Gombe Abba Road

The committee’s visit underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the utilization of public funds for development. The NEDC’s initiatives, from healthcare facilities to educational and infrastructural developments, are poised to transform the Northeast subregion, bringing about long-term benefits for its residents.

As the NEDC continues to execute its mandate, the House of Reps Committee’s oversight function remains crucial in ensuring that these projects meet the needs of the communities they are designed to serve. The collaborative efforts of the NEDC and the legislative oversight exemplify a commitment to sustainable development and the upliftment of the Northeast subregion.