The Northern Minority Alliance for Balanced Leadership (NOMAL) has called on President Bola Tinubu to assent to the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) bill to address the unique developmental challenges facing the region.
It posited that the creation of the NCDC will ensure equitable development and reflect the administration’s commitment to balanced governance in the zone, which includes Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory.
The group, in a communique issued at the end of its three-day retreat in Jos, Plateau State, read by its Convener, Mr Ibrahim Bunu, said the appointment of sons and daughters of the region into prominent positions by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration marks a significant shift from the historical marginalisation the region experienced under previous administrations, adding that the appointments symbolise a leadership that prioritises equity and fairness in a multi-ethnic and multi-religious nation.
It pointed out that by recognising inclusiveness and balanced leadership, President Tinubu’s administration has demonstrated an unprecedented commitment to inclusive governance, particularly by giving Northern minorities a seat at the table of policymaking.
On the Tax Reform Bills before the National Assembly, the group commended the administration’s proposed tax reforms aimed at streamlining tax processes, closing revenue gaps, and fostering a business-friendly environment.
It added that the bills, currently before the National Assembly, represent a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic recovery efforts and urged the legislature to expedite their passage to strengthen fiscal stability and economic revitalisation.
The group also disassociated itself from the inflammatory statements from groups and some individuals from Northern Nigeria against the President’s appointments and policies of his administration, adding that such comments are divisive rhetoric.
“We categorically dissociate ourselves from such divisive rhetoric. The so-called ‘Northern Agenda’ does not represent us. We are not part of any scheming to undermine Mr President or to return to the divisive politics of the past. Instead, we stand firmly with a leader who has demonstrated a commitment to balanced governance, national unity, and inclusivity.”
The group therefore called on leaders: traditional, spiritual, other critical stakeholders, as well as citizens to rise above parochial interests and sentiments and support the Tinubu/Shettima administration and its return in 2027.
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