By Yusuf A Yusuf, Damaturu
The Kulen Allah Cattle Rearers Association of Nigeria (KACRAN) has called on the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to partner with the six North-East Governors to drive massive job creation, an agricultural revolution, and the exploration of natural resources in the region.
In a press release signed by its National President, Hon. Khalil Mohd Bello, the association described the NEDC as "unarguably one of the most successful Federal Government institutions" in the country, citing its achievements in rebuilding schools, houses, and offices destroyed by insurgency.
KACRAN, which said it is a direct beneficiary of the Commission's livestock development programmes including the provision of potable water for pastoral communities, animal feeds, and palliatives for internally displaced persons stressed that the NEDC has almost completed its reconstruction mandate, and should now focus on placing the region on a solid economic foundation.
According to the association, the NEDC has become "the father of the North-East," partnering with governments, traditional institutions, security operatives, and stakeholders to achieve its objectives.
KACRAN urged the Commission to extend its activities to economic development, describing it as a model worthy of emulation by other federal commissions.
KACRAN noted that millions of people, including university and college graduates, are searching for opportunities due to the devastation caused by insurgency. Employing them, the association said, would prevent them from being recruited into criminal activities.
Agricultural Revolution, this,according to KACRAN, covers the arable, livestock, and fisheries sectors. It would ensure food security, boost the nation's GDP through the exportation of processed food, and reduce the billions of Naira spent yearly on importing milk, meat, and rice. Under the proposed partnership, the NEDC would provide experts and financial backing, while the Governors would provide land and security.
The association noted that the North-East is richly blessed with natural resources that can be explored, processed, and exported, giving Nigeria more economic power to compete globally.
KACRAN also called on the newly established Development Commissions in the North-West and North-Central to emulate the system, expressing hope that it would revive the North from its current challenges.
The association commended the NEDC for procuring 10,000 luxurious buses, 18-seater buses, taxis, and tricycles in its bid to provide affordable transportation for the people of the North-East and other Nigerians.
It appreciated the Commission's Managing Director, Alhaji Mohammed Goni Alkali, the Director of Admin and Finance, Dr. Garba Iliya, other Directors, and the entire staff, wishing them more successes in the years ahead.
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