Tinubu Warns Regional Commissions

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned regional commissions against wasting public funds on projects that offer little value to Nigerians. The President urged the commissions to focus on projects that can address development gaps and improve lives across their regions. The President gave the warning on Monday while declaring open the first North Central Stakeholders Development Summit in Abuja. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Tinubu Warns Regional Commissions Over Spending

Tinubu said the era of “white elephant projects” must end, stressing that the commissions were created to address development gaps and improve the lives of people across their regions. He urged the commissions to focus on practical projects that can unlock economic opportunities and strengthen regional connections. These include roads, rail transportation, industrialisation, security, education, healthcare and human-capital development. The President also warned the boards and management of the commissions against corruption, politicisation, marginalisation and ethnic considerations in the management of government programmes. According to him, officials found guilty of such practices will face sanctions.

President Orders Release of Commission Funds

Despite his warning over spending, Tinubu directed the SGF’s office to ensure the timely release of funds due to the Regional Development Commissions. He also encouraged the commissions to look beyond government funding by attracting private investment, donor support, development financing and Public-Private Partnerships. The President said Nigerians should measure development by its impact on their lives, rather than by the number of projects or reports produced. At the summit, the North Central Development Commission unveiled a proposed 20-year development plan. It focuses on agriculture, solid minerals, infrastructure, human capital and regional economic growth. Tinubu said the plan should produce practical outcomes and not become another document that officials eventually abandon. The President’s warning comes as the Federal Government continues to promote regional development commissions. The initiative aims to reduce development gaps and expand economic opportunities across the country. The commissions should therefore direct public funds towards useful projects. These projects should create jobs, attract investment and deliver measurable benefits to Nigerians.