by Linus Tor-Hagher
When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the bill establishing the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) in February 2025, it was evident that the time for the infrastructural and socio-economic emancipation of the North Central region had finally come.
That singular act rekindled hope across the agriculturally rich, culturally diverse, and politically vibrant region, signalling that its long-awaited moment of renewal had arrived.
For years, the North Central region has remained resilient despite the burden of insecurity, poverty, and infrastructural decay. Yet, it has continued to make immense contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development.
Beyond producing some of the nation’s finest political and military leaders, as well as key figures in the private sector and entertainment industry, the region still grapples with underdevelopment and neglect.
The creation of the NCDC therefore represents more than just a glimmer of hope; it is a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring equitable development and opportunities across all regions under his Renewed Hope Agenda.
One major proof of this commitment is the appointment of highly qualified technocrats and seasoned administrators to steer the affairs of the Commission.
For instance, the President appointed Barr. Cosmas Ternenge Akighir, a distinguished legal practitioner, risk manager, agribusiness expert, and chartered forensic professional, as Chairman of the Board of the NCDC.
Barr. Akighir brings to the role over two decades of experience spanning legal practice, credit risk management, forensic investigation, agribusiness consultancy, and arbitration.
The accomplished lawyer, who holds multiple Master’s degrees earned both in Nigeria and abroad, is well prepared to lead the transformation of the North Central region in collaboration with his fellow board members and the Commission’s management team.
Another inspired appointment is that of Dr. Cyril Tsenyil, a seasoned technocrat and former Accountant-General of Plateau State, who now serves as the Managing Director of the Commission.
Dr. Tsenyil’s vast experience in policy formulation and implementation, fund and project management, and regulatory compliance positions him to promote transparency, accountability, and prudent resource utilization for the benefit of the region.
His expertise in financial analysis, reporting, and data-driven planning will no doubt be instrumental in identifying the region’s core needs and designing effective interventions with lasting impact.
The Board, under the leadership of Barr. Akighir, and the Management, headed by Dr. Tsenyil, are already working in synergy to ensure the successful execution of the Commission’s mandate.
Given the calibre of professionals appointed and their proven track records of excellence, there is every reason to believe that the NCDC will significantly alter the fortunes of the North Central states.
The region now stands on the threshold of transformation – from a zone characterized by poverty, hunger, and infrastructural deficits to one destined for abundance, rapid development, agricultural revolution, urban renewal, and prosperity.
Encouragingly, the Federal Government is making concerted efforts to release funds to enable the Commission to take off effectively.
The Nasarawa State Government has also provided a temporary office in Lafia, from where the NCDC will begin operations pending the construction of its permanent headquarters.
With these developments, the interventionist agency is firmly on course, and the people of the North Central region will soon begin to feel the positive impact of its establishment.
Written by Linus Tor-Hagher
