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

Mr 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.

The management of the commission was led by its board chairman, Olubunmi Adetunmbi.

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.

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

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

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

“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.”

He noted that collaboration was also key to the realisation of the mandate of the South-West Development Commission and the improvement of the livelihoods of the people.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He also applauded the vice president for his leadership of the National Economic Council (NEC), which was transforming governance at the subnational level through tangible projects executed across the country.

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

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

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

(NAN)