The North Central Development Commission is facing funding challenges that could affect the implementation of its development programmes, the Senate Committee overseeing the Commission has warned.
The committee, however, commended the NCDC leadership for establishing strong structures despite delays and shortfalls in funding.
Chairman of the Senate Committee, Senator Titus Zam, spoke after the Commission’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Cyril Yiltsen Tsenyil, briefed lawmakers on its activities. Zam said the committee was impressed with the Commission’s vision and prudent management, despite funds released being below the approved budget.
“Despite the slow release of funds, which is far below the approved budget, we are encouraged by the prudent management and vision demonstrated by the Commission. We will engage the relevant authorities to ensure more funds are released for it to achieve meaningful results”, he said.
He added that the committee would soon visit the Commission’s headquarters in Lafia, Nasarawa State.
Tsenyil thanked President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly for supporting the establishment of the NCDC, saying the Commission had begun building partnerships with government agencies and states across the region.
He disclosed that Nasarawa, Plateau, Kogi and Benue states had pledged support, while agreements with agencies including REA, SMEDAN and NIRSAL were at the final stage.
The NCDC chief executive added that the Commission had approved its Strategic Development Roadmap and commenced steps to attract alternative funding through an investment company.
