FG Launches 5-Year National Regional Development Policy

The Federal Government of Nigeria unveiled a 5-Year National Regional Development Policy, which aims to provide a strategic framework for operations in regional development. Minister Abubakar Momoh disclosed this in Abuja, stating that the policy became necessary following the inauguration of the first batch of regional development commissions scheduled for February 2025, with a second batch to follow in August 2025.

The ministry had been operating without a formal policy framework, which had become increasingly apparent as international development partners sought clarity on the ministry's strategic direction. The National Economic Council (NEC) was briefed on the policy, which is currently undergoing a critical approval process.

The document will ensure broad stakeholder participation and ownership, with consultations planned across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. The policy has received general support from governors, although some constitutional concerns regarding the number of regional development commissions were raised.