Peter Obi Criticizes Omission of NCDC Funding in 2025 Budget

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed strong disapproval of the exclusion of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) from the 2025 national budget. In a statement on Wednesday, Obi described the omission as deeply concerning and called for immediate revisions to the budget to address the issue.

He emphasized that the North Central region requires urgent support due to the severe insecurity plaguing the area.

“It is troubling that the North Central Regional Commission has been excluded from the ₦2.493 trillion allocated to other regional development commissions in the 2025 proposed budget. Such oversight undermines the balanced development and peace essential for national progress,” Obi stated.

Highlighting the dire situation in states like Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Niger, Obi noted that the region has suffered relentless terror attacks and banditry, resulting in significant loss of life and forcing countless families into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. He described the North Central as one of Nigeria’s most vulnerable regions.

Obi also underscored the region’s role as the nation’s agricultural hub, stressing the need for enhanced security and support to unlock its potential for national benefit.

“The North Central region, known as the agricultural backbone of the nation, deserves targeted investments to promote stability and development. Neglecting this vital region will have far-reaching negative consequences for the country,” Obi said.

He called on the government and National Assembly to immediately address the omission and ensure that the NCDC receives the necessary allocations.

“An inclusive and equitable Nigeria depends on our collective effort to support every region fairly. I urge the government to review this decision and prioritize the North Central’s development,” he concluded.