NWDC MD Says Climate Resilience Central to North-West Development Agenda
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the North-West Development Commission (NWDC), Prof. Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji, says climate resilience must be central to the development strategy of the North-West.
Prof. Ma’aji, who was represented by the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Mal. Bello Ibrahim, stated this today in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the North-West Climate Summit themed “Advancing Climate Resilience, Green Investment and Sustainable Development in North-West Nigeria.”
The summit, convened by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North-West), Alhaji Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, brought together Governors of the seven North-West states and Chairmen of 186 Local Government Areas.
Prof. Ma’aji noted that the region is increasingly affected by irregular rainfall, drought, desertification, flooding and pressure on water resources, with attendant threats to agriculture, livelihoods and infrastructure.
He said the establishment of the NWDC provides a platform for a coordinated regional response and assured that the Commission will integrate climate considerations into its programmes on infrastructure, agriculture, water, education, health and youth empowerment.
He described the proposed North-West Climate Initiative — anchored on the Climate Academy, Climate Investment Marketplace and Climate Fund — as a viable framework, but stressed that it must translate into practical programmes with measurable impact.
To achieve this, he proposed six priority areas: climate-smart agriculture, water security, environmental restoration, renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and green skills for youth and women.
He further called for a clear coordination mechanism involving the NWDC, state governments, local governments and development partners to avoid duplication and ensure tangible benefits for communities.
Abdulrashid Safana, the Commission’s Head of Press and Public Relations, in a statement said Prof Ma’aji reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to build a North-West that is economically productive and environmentally sustainable.
