Minister Momoh Leads High-Level Retreat In Benin To Boost Project Delivery

The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Regional Development, has organised a high-level sectoral retreat bringing together top officials of the ministry and Regional Development Commissions to improve coordination, accountability, and project execution nationwide.

The four-day retreat, taking place from April 15 to 18, 2026, at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, is being led by the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, was represented at the opening by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, while the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mary Ada Ogbe, also participated.

In his keynote address, Momoh described the gathering as a strategic effort to strengthen collaboration between the ministry and regional commissions in line with President Bola Tinubu’s development agenda.

He noted that the creation of additional Regional Development Commissions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones reflects the government’s commitment to a structured approach to tackling regional imbalances and boosting economic growth.

While acknowledging that each commission has its specific mandate, the minister stressed the need for a unified national vision focused on balanced and sustainable development.

Momoh highlighted persistent challenges such as project duplication, abandoned initiatives, and rivalry among agencies, stating that better coordination and accountability are essential to achieving tangible results.

To address these issues, he said the ministry would prioritise completing ongoing projects before initiating new ones to ensure continuity and real impact. He also announced plans to introduce performance bonds for commission leaders, with clear targets to improve efficiency, transparency, and measurable outcomes.

The minister further encouraged the exploration of alternative funding options, including Public-Private Partnerships, while maintaining strict compliance with due process and financial discipline.

Key focus areas outlined at the retreat include infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, digital connectivity, security, and empowerment programmes for youth and women, all aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He emphasised that development efforts must remain inclusive, people-focused, and results-driven, with active stakeholder engagement at every stage.

The retreat is expected to generate practical strategies that will strengthen collaboration among the commissions and enhance development outcomes across the country.