by Okoi Obono-Obla
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has performed tremendously well in just three years of being in power, despite the challenges it met on ground and the global economic difficulties that have impacted Nigeria’s economy. However, there appears to be a deliberate attempt by some vested interests, motivated by politics, to score cheap political points by underreporting, misrepresenting, or distorting the achievements of the government. Some even go to the ridiculous extent of accusing the administration of sectional or ethnic-centric discrimination in the siting of developmental projects. I find this type of dangerous and incendiary narrative deeply troubling. Therefore, I decided to research what the administration has done for all geopolitical zones of the country. Today, I present my findings concerning the North-East geopolitical zone.
Key Projects and Initiatives (2023–2026)
1. Road Infrastructure and Transportation
– Kano–Maiduguri Road Rehabilitation: Continued work on the multi-section road connecting Kano to Borno State, a vital commercial corridor.
– Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Expressway: A major 422km highway expansion project linking North-East states.
– Biu–Numa Road (Borno/Adamawa): Rehabilitation and construction works valued at ₦61.76 billion.
– Kashamu–Amshi–Guru–Gurus Road (Yobe): Infrastructure upgrades including binder courses and a new vehicle bridge.
– Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway: A 1,068km superhighway enhancing north-south connectivity, with significant impact on the North-East.
2. Agriculture and Rural Development
– Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL): A World Bank-funded program restoring 1 million hectares of degraded land in Northern Nigeria.
– North-East Development Commission (NEDC) Interventions: Construction of schools, hospitals, and clinics, including model schools in all senatorial districts.
– Livestock Development: Establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, with grazing reserves in states like Borno.
3. Energy and Economic Development
– Kolmani Integrated Development Project (Bauchi/Gombe): Investment in oil fields to boost economic activity.
– Solar Project Interventions: Deployment of solar-powered energy solutions for rural communities and public institutions.
4. Education and Social Infrastructure
– Model School Construction: NEDC-built complexes with clinics, staff residences, and revitalized Almajiri schools.
– Teacher Training & Improvement: Over 10,000 teachers trained through UBEC programs by mid-2024.
5. Security and Regional Development
– Humanitarian-Development Transition: Shift from immediate aid to long-term reconstruction in conflict-affected areas.
– Community-Led Projects: Initiatives in Adamawa and Borno states to build schools, healthcare facilities, and water infrastructure.
Conclusion:
The evidence from my research indicates that the Tinubu administration has made significant strides in the North-East geopolitical zone under the Renewed Hope agenda. With ongoing work in road infrastructure, agricultural development, energy projects, and social services, the administration has demonstrated a strong commitment to inclusive growth and regional integration. These achievements reflect a deliberate effort to rebuild and empower the North-East, countering narratives of neglect or discrimination.
Okoi Obono-Obla
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