President Bola Tinubu Nominates New Leadership for Development Commissions.

In a notable move aimed at bolstering regional development in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has nominated Alhaji Lawal Samai’la Abdullahi as the new Chairman of the North West Development Commission (NWDC). This decision comes alongside the nomination of Hon. Emeka Atuma as Chairman of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), marking significant appointments as the President seeks to enhance governance and strategic development initiatives across the country.

In September 2024, President Tinubu initially proposed Amb. Haruna Ginsau as Chairman of the NWDC, accompanied by Senator Tijani Yahaya Kaura and Hon. Abdulkadir S. Usman as board members. However, following adjustments made by the Senate to the NWDC’s establishment act to incorporate representatives from various geopolitical zones, the President revised his nominations. The updated list now includes Ja’afar Abubakar Sadeeq and Yahaya Aminu Abdulhadi, while Professor Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji will retain his role as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer.

Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, revealed that the President’s revised nominations include a diverse board comprising Chukwu Chijioke, Ahmed Mohammed, Engr. Ahmed Rufai Timasaniyu, and Macdonalds Michael Uyi, among others. This strategic inclusion reflects the government’s commitment to equitable representation.

As for the South East Development Commission, Hon. Emeka Atuma’s nomination, alongside Hon. Mark C. Okoye as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, is also subject to Senate confirmation. These appointments are anticipated to further strengthen the development frameworks within their respective regions.

Through these nominations, President Tinubu demonstrates his administration’s dedication to fostering regional development and ensuring that leadership across Nigeria is reflective of its diverse geopolitical landscape.