As ten-day nationwide protests over hunger and economic hardship escalate into violence across the country, the Agenda for Development in Africa (ADA) has explained why the protests had minimal impact in the Northeast region.
The group attributed the relative calm in the region to the effective leadership and development initiatives of the North East Development Commission (NEDC), led by Director/Chief Executive Officer Muhammad Alkali.
In a statement signed by ADA’s Executive Director, Samson Audu, on Saturday, the group praised the NEDC’s comprehensive approach to development, which includes the completion of numerous projects across the six Northeastern states.
The statement highlighted the implementation of the North East Stabilization and Development Masterplan, which has played a significant role in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable growth in the region.
“The ongoing nationwide protests, which have degenerated into chaos and crisis in some parts of the country, highlight the importance of exemplary leadership as shown by Muhammad Alkali, the Director/CEO of the NEDC,” the statement reads.
“While other regions grapple with violence, the Northeast has witnessed minimal unrest, a testament to the Commission’s effective governance and development initiatives. The NEDC’s achievements are noteworthy.
“The Commission has completed thousands of projects across the six states of the Northeast, spanning education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic empowerment. Additionally, the innovative North East Stabilization and Development Masterplan has promoted peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.”
The group emphasized that the NEDC’s commitment to community engagement, inclusive development, and strategic planning has created a model for other regions to follow.
“In stark contrast, other regions of the country have witnessed devastating violence and destruction. Protests have escalated, resulting in loss of lives, property damage, and displacement of people. There have been reports of widespread looting, arson, and clashes between protesters and security forces,” the statement continued.
“This has also disrupted economic activities, causing untold hardship to citizens and further exacerbating the country’s socio-economic challenges. The situation underscores the need for effective leadership and development initiatives that address the root causes of discontent and promote inclusive growth.
“We particularly commend the NEDC for its exceptional efforts in preventing the protests from escalating into a full-blown crisis in the Northeast. The Commission’s swift response to the region’s needs, its engagement with community leaders and stakeholders, and its commitment to inclusive development have all contributed to the relative peace in the region.
“By prioritizing the welfare of the people and addressing their grievances, the NEDC has demonstrated that development can be a powerful tool for conflict prevention and resolution. This is a testament to the Commission’s dedication to the people of the Northeast and its unwavering commitment to their well-being.”
The NEDC was established to aid the recovery of the Northeast after more than a decade of insurgency by Boko Haram, which severely impacted the region’s livelihoods.
