The Board of the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing climate change and the impacts of years of insurgency.
Major General (Dr) Paul Chabri Tarfa (Rtd), Chairman of the NEDC, emphasized this in his opening remarks during the Management retreat in Gombe State.
“This retreat is an essential milestone for the NEDC as we come together to reflect, strategize, and set the course for the effective implementation of the North-East Stabilisation and Development Master Plan (NESDMP).” he emphasize.
READ ALSO: Governor Yusuf launches ambitious tree planting initiative in Kano to combat climate change
Tarfa stated, “Our work here over the next two days will define not just the operational efficiency of the Commission but also the future well-being of millions of people who call this region home.”
He highlighted the significant challenges, including the Boko Haram insurgency and climate change impacts, stating, “These challenges, though daunting, are surmountable if we ingeniously harness the opportunities.”
He called for collaboration and innovation, reminding participants that the NEDC was established to rebuild, stabilise, and accelerate the development of the Northeast. He urged them to engage fully, noting that the future of the Northeast depends on the outcomes of this gathering.
The NEDC’s involvement in COP28 in Dubai in December 2023 is part of a broader strategy to tackle issues such as desertification, biodiversity loss, and climate-induced displacement. The NEDC is committed to sustainable development guided by the NESDMP, which includes pillars like Peaceful Society and Protected Environment.
The upcoming North Eastern Climate Summit (NECS 24) will provide a platform for stakeholders to develop strategies to protect the environment and enhance resilience in the region.
Tarfa concluded, “Let us seize this opportunity to build the foundations of a prosperous and resilient Northeast.”
