Shettima tasks regional devt commissions on innovation, integrity

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged regional development commissions to be innovative, ensure effective collaboration and integrity in discharging their mandates.

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Shettima made the call on Wednesday when he received the management of the South West Development Commission (SWDC), on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the management of the commission was led by its board Chairman, Sen. Olubunmi Adetunmbi.

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He explained that the vision behind the creation of regional development commissions was to further unlock and harness opportunities in the various regions for Nigeria’s collective prosperity.

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The vice president said that President Bola Tinubu deserves to be praised for such foresight and directional leadership.

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Shettima noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda was about translating policy into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.

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“The South West region, with its history of enterprise, innovation, education and industry, has a pivotal role to play in Nigeria’s development journey.

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“Your commission must be known for delivery, not bureaucracy. Nigerians will measure your success by the quality of roads built, jobs created, businesses supported, and communities transformed.”

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He noted that collaboration was also key in the realisation of the mandate of the South West Development Commission and the improvement of the livelihood of the people.

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Shettima said across the world, successful regions are those that invest in innovation, human capital, technology and regional integration.

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According to Shettima, the South-West is well-positioned to lead Nigeria in these areas.

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“I encourage you to work closely with the state governments across the south west, traditional institutions, the private sector and development partners.

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“Development succeeds when institutions collaborate, not compete. Peer review is very important.

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“I urge you to reach out to the other regional development commissions and share ideas that will transform the fortunes of our various regions.”

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On project, Shettima said every project must be transparent, measure and capable of attracting private investment.

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“Our job as government is to create the enabling environment for investments to thrive.”

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The vice president reiterated the Federal Government’s support for every genuine effort that advances regional development and national prosperity.

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Earlier, Adetunmbi, commended Tinubu administration’s economic and structural reforms that culminated in the creation of the regional development commissions, among other benefits.

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He also applauded the Vice president for his leadership of the National Economic Council (NEC), which was transforming governance at the sub-nationals with tangible projects executed across the country.

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Adetunmbi briefed VP Shettima on the proposed roadmap for the commission’s interventions in infrastructure, human capital development and related projects across the region.

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He revealed a plan to conduct a robust baseline study to properly guide the commission’s programmes.

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The chairman sought the vice president’s guidance and support in working harmoniously with sub-nationals through the NEC to avoid the duplication of projects.

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