Zonal Development Funds: A New Era for Equity and Progress in Nigeria
The establishment of the Zonal Development Commissions in Nigeria has elicited mixed reactions from the political class and society. Some critics claim that the commissions are a parasitic dependency of the federal government by politicians, but it is important to emphasize that the fundamental principle of the federal system of government is the need for balanced development. In a country as vast and diverse as Nigeria, it is imperative to ensure that each region enjoys harmonious development, especially when it comes to infrastructure.
The traditional annual budget system has failed to ensure balanced development. Almost all regions of the country complain of “marginalization,” which underscores the need for a mechanism that allows for deliberate distribution of federal funds to each of the six geopolitical zones to address this perceived inequality and promote harmonious development.
Since the end of the Nigerian civil war, with the proclamation of the three “Rs” – Reconstruction, Reconciliation and Rehabilitation of the former Eastern Region, development policies have evolved. The Federal Government established the Oil and Gas Development Commission, OMPADEC, and later replaced it with the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, to address claims of neglect by Niger Delta militants.
The government of President Muhammadu Buhari promptly initiated the establishment of the North East Development Commission to address the destruction of the region by Boko Haram jihadist terrorists. Legislation to establish other zonal development commissions followed, namely the South East and North West Development Commission, with the South West Development Commission recently passed in the Senate.
To ensure the success of these commissions, direct oversight by the Office of the President with the active participation of the National Assembly is essential to ensure adequate funding and transparent execution of projects. These Zonal Development Commissions are a step towards national unity if properly managed.
In conclusion, it is imperative to foster equity and transparency in the allocation of budgetary funds while ensuring that corruption is completely eradicated. These Commissions provide an unprecedented opportunity to promote balanced development and spur progress in all regions of Nigeria.