By Peter Oriri
The Minority Leader of the 10th Senate and Senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, Senator Patrick Abba Moro, has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing into law the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Bill and the College of Agricultural Technology, Opialu-Ojapo, Establishment Bill. Both bills, sponsored by Senator Moro, aim to drive regional development and enhance food security in North Central Nigeria.
Senator Moro also extended his gratitude to the 10th Senate, led by Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, for prioritizing the interests of the North Central region. He expressed confidence that the Tinubu administration would allocate the necessary funding to enable the North Central Development Commission to commence operations immediately.
The senator in a media briefing with the National Assembly Online Media, further urged the President to expedite the constitution of the leadership team for the newly established Federal College of Agricultural Technology, Opialu-Ojapo, to facilitate its swift implementation and contribution to national food security efforts.
Highlighting the pressing challenges in the North Central region, Senator Moro noted that years of insecurity, kidnappings, farmers-herders conflicts, and internal displacement have severely hindered development in the region. With the highest number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the country, he emphasized that the NCDC would play a crucial role in rebuilding communities, fostering economic growth, and improving the living conditions of affected residents.
Senator Moro acknowledged that although the headquarters will be situated in Lafia, Nasarawa State, there are ongoing discussions regarding its possible relocation to Minna, Niger State, with a final decision expected in the coming days.
The senator urged stakeholders and residents of the North Central region, particularly Benue South, to take pride in this legislative achievement. He assured them of his commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in the utilization of funds allocated for the region’s development.
Senator Moro reaffirmed his dedication to working with all relevant parties to maximize the benefits of these newly established institutions for the advancement and prosperity of the North Central zone.
