By Gloria Ikibah
The North Central Development Commission (NCDC) has issued a clarification regarding its 2025 budget proposal, following widespread media reports that misrepresented aspects of the ₦140 billion estimates submitted to the National Assembly.
This was contained in a statement by the Executive Director, Corporate Services, James Uloko, on Friday.
Uloko stressed that the Commission is in the early stages of its establishment, having been operational for barely a month and that the ₦140 billion budget represents its foundational plan for full takeoff.
According to him, the management of the NCDC appeared before the Senate Committee overseeing the Commission on 30 September 2025, where it defended the proposed budget in both open and closed sessions. The Senate Committee, after a “robust engagement,” scrutinised the figures, sought clarifications, and made several observations and adjustments before giving a provisional approval.
However, the Commission noted that the figures being circulated in the media do not reflect the adjustments made during the legislative review.
“While the budget proposal of ₦140 billion was not altered, the allocation of figures cited in media reports does not take into consideration the adjustments made, which will be reflected in the final document,” the statement read.
The NCDC further explained that the budget remains a “working document” until the House of Representatives Committee on North Central Development Commission conducts its own review and concurs with the Senate’s version. Only then will the final figures and line distributions be authenticated and released.
He Commission reassured the public of its commitment to transparency, and that it would operate strictly in accordance with national financial regulations.
“The NCDC appreciates the public’s interest in its activities and assures all stakeholders that the Commission will work transparently, accountably, and inclusively in delivering on its mandate,” the statement added.
Executive Director Corporate Services said the Commission will engage extensively with stakeholders across the North Central States and the Federal Capital Territory to ensure fairness and equity.
He also noted that the NCDC will carry out comprehensive needs assessments and strategic consultations in designing its development roadmap.
The North Central Development Commission, established earlier this year, is tasked with coordinating reconstruction, rehabilitation, and development efforts across the North Central region, which has faced years of underdevelopment and infrastructural challenges.