The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the North-West Development Commission, Professor Shehu Abdullahi Ma’aji, says climate resilience must be central to the development strategy of the North-West.
Professor Ma’aji, represented at the event by Director Planning, Research and Statistics, Mal. Bello Ibrahim stated this today in Abuja while delivering a keynote address at the North-West Climate Summit with the theme “Advancing Climate Resilience, Green Investment and Sustainable Development in North-West Nigeria.”
The Summit, convened by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North-West), Alhaji Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai, brought together Governors of the seven North-West States and Chairmen of 186 Local Government Areas.
Professor Ma’aji said the region is increasingly affected by irregular rainfall, drought, desertification, flooding and pressure on water resources, which threaten agriculture, livelihoods and infrastructure.
He said the establishment of the NWDC provides a platform for coordinated regional response, and that the Commission will integrate climate considerations into its infrastructure, agriculture, water, education, health and youth empowerment programmes.
He described the proposed North-West Climate Initiative — anchored on the Climate Academy, Climate Investment Marketplace and Climate Fund — as a viable framework, but stressed it must translate into practical programmes with measurable impact.
To achieve this, he proposed six priority areas: climate-smart agriculture, water security, environmental restoration, renewable energy, climate-resilient infrastructure, and green skills for youth and women.
He called for a clear coordination mechanism involving the NWDC, State Governments, Local Governments and development partners to avoid duplication and ensure tangible benefits for communities.
He reaffirmed NWDC’s readiness to work with all stakeholders to build a North-West that is economically productive and environmentally sustainable.
Signed:
Abdulrashid Y. Safana, anipr
Head, Press and Public Relations.
20/10/2026.
