FG Inaugurates Core Working Group on Regional Development

The Federal Government has inaugurated the Core Working Group (CWG) on Regional Development, a key step in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The CWG is tasked with driving coordinated and harmonised implementation of regional development initiatives nationwide, providing technical leadership, strategic alignment, and operational oversight.

Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh said the initiative reflects Tinubu’s commitment to balanced growth and inclusive national development.

Represented by Minister of State Uba Ahmadu, Momoh described regional development commissions as strategic tools for addressing long-standing gaps while responding to socio-economic and security challenges.

Ahmadu urged the CWG to craft a responsive policy framework that reflects local realities and comparative advantages, while aligning with national plans and global best practices.

Renewed Hope Agenda: From Strategy to Execution

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Regional Development, Dr Mariam Masha, described the inauguration as a shift from “strategy to execution.”

She said the Renewed Hope Agenda aims to reduce disparities in opportunity and human development by promoting inclusive growth rooted at the grassroots.

Masha noted that the Office of the Vice President – Regional Development Programmes (OVP-RDP) will provide strategic support across four pillars: productive economy, social development, infrastructure and connectivity, and peace and security.

Permanent Secretary Dr Mary Ogbe emphasised that regional development is central to reducing inequality, fostering cohesion, and unlocking opportunities.

She said the CWG will drive design and implementation of key policies, supported by a two-day training to promote a results-based and rights-focused approach.

International partners also pledged support. UNICEF Country Representative Wafaa Abdelatef, represented by Dr Hamidou Poufon, reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to fairness, inclusion, and resilience, particularly for children, women, and youth.

Similarly, UN Resident Coordinator Mohammed Fall, represented by Maryam Uwais, said the UN will back Nigeria’s efforts through technical leadership, capacity building, and knowledge sharing in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).