In a bold effort to alleviate the growing hardship among Nigerians, the North East Development Commission (NEDC) has extended critical support to vulnerable communities in Adamawa State, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The relief initiative, which focused on both food and non-food items, was executed in collaboration with the Adamawa State Government to ensure fair distribution among those most in need, particularly flood-affected residents.
Representing the Managing Director of NEDC, Mohammed Goni Alkali, the acting Coordinator for Adamawa State, Fatima Bakari, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to supporting marginalized communities. “Our goal with these donations is to provide immediate relief to the most vulnerable and help ease the burdens they face,” she said. The relief package included essential food items such as rice, spaghetti, and vegetable oil, as well as non-food supplies like mats, children’s clothing, and blankets.
These provisions were specially targeted at households affected by recent floods, religious groups, and PWDs, reflecting the NEDC’s inclusive approach to disaster response. “We are determined to ensure that no one is left behind. These items will reach all segments of society—especially those who need them most,” Bakari emphasized.
Strengthening Agricultural Productivity for Long-term Impact
Beyond providing immediate relief, the NEDC is tackling hunger and unemployment through strategic interventions in the agricultural sector. As part of its broader food security agenda, the commission supplied the Adamawa Food Security Committee with an array of modern agricultural machinery. The equipment included 16 rice mills, 8 oil press machines, 35 walking tractors, and other agricultural tools aimed at boosting productivity and strengthening the local economy.
Dishi Kwabe, Chairman of the State Food Security Committee, praised the NEDC for its forward-thinking initiative. “These tools will significantly enhance food production and empower farmers to increase output. This intervention will not only alleviate hunger but also restore livelihoods, enabling farmers to recover from the challenges they have faced,” he said.
Empowering Youth Through Capacity-Building Programs
In addition to food security, the NEDC has launched a robust youth empowerment initiative, training 400 young people in key areas such as renewable energy, solar installation, waste management, and climate change adaptation. These programs are designed to equip participants with practical skills that align with emerging global trends, ensuring they are better prepared for the evolving job market.
“This is about building a sustainable future,” Bakari noted. “By investing in our youth, we are fostering resilience and creating opportunities for economic growth within the region.”
Flood Prevention Efforts in Partnership with the State Government
Recognizing the recurrent threat of floods in Adamawa, the NEDC is also working closely with the state government to mitigate future disasters. A major part of this effort involves the desilting and clearing of 60,000 meters of drainage systems within the state capital, a preventive measure aimed at reducing flood risks. This environmental intervention demonstrates the NEDC’s proactive approach to disaster management and urban planning.
Appreciation from Religious Leaders and Local Stakeholders
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) expressed profound gratitude for the NEDC’s timely intervention. In a joint statement, both religious bodies applauded the commission for its inclusive efforts, which have brought relief to many families during these difficult times.
Kwabe echoed these sentiments, assuring the public that the items will be distributed transparently and fairly. “We will ensure that these supplies reach every intended beneficiary. Our focus is to reduce hunger and hardship, and we will make every effort to achieve that goal,” he assured.
A Lifeline for the North East
The NEDC’s intervention in Adamawa is part of its continuous commitment to uplifting vulnerable communities across the North East, a region deeply affected by years of insurgency, poverty, and environmental challenges. Through a combination of humanitarian aid, agricultural support, youth empowerment, and environmental management, the commission is demonstrating its dedication to sustainable development and regional stability.
These efforts underline the NEDC’s mission to build resilience within communities while laying the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity. As the people of Adamawa begin to rebuild their lives, the commission’s initiatives provide a much-needed lifeline, fostering hope for a brighter and more secure future.
