By Murtala Adogi Mohammed

Subject: Strategic Recommendations for Nasarawa State’s Development

Your Excellency,

I commend your proactive decision to dissolve the Executive Council as part of efforts to reposition Nasarawa State for greater progress. This is an excellent opportunity to realign the state’s development priorities and governance structures.

With the expiration of the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy (NEDS) in 2023, it is critical to establish a new development framework before appointing new commissioners. 

I recommend setting up a Nasarawa State Development Council to review NEDS I and fast-track the development of NEDS II. This will guide commissioners in creating sectoral plans aligned with the state’s vision.

Here are some quick actionable steps:

1. Develop NEDS II.

Create a four-year strategic plan focusing on youth and gender-responsive initiatives, tackling unemployment, education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion.

2. Set Up a Delivery Unit.

Establish a Governance and Development Delivery Unit to oversee the implementation of key policies and ensure timely delivery of results.

3. Appoint Skilled Commissioners. 

Ensure at least 50% of new commissioners are technical experts in their fields, especially in critical sectors like health, education, agriculture, and economic planning.

4. Publish Annual Performance Reports. 

Adopt the practice of publishing annual governance and development reports to ensure transparency and engage citizens in the state’s progress.

5. Establish a Development Management Board. 

Create a board to coordinate efforts among government agencies, the private sector, development partners, and civil society. This will prevent duplication and drive impactful outcomes.

Implementing these recommendations will provide a solid foundation for your new cabinet and set the stage for sustainable development across Nasarawa State.

Murtala Adogi Mohammed, PhD

Founder/CEO, System Strategy and Policy Lab