North Central Development Commission: A Step Forward, But What About the Middle Belt Identity?
The recent signing of the North Central Development Commission (NCDC) Bill has been met with mixed reactions across the region. While many celebrate it as a long-overdue step toward rebuilding and developing a part of Nigeria that has suffered years of neglect, insecurity, and economic hardship, others question why it wasn’t named the Middle Belt Development Commission (MBDC)—a name that resonates more deeply with the people of the region.
A Region in Need of Special Attention
The North Central region—comprising Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)—has been at the epicenter of farmer-herder conflicts, banditry, and ethno-religious crises. The creation of the NCDC is a response to these challenges, similar to how the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) was established to address the unique issues of the oil-rich South-South region.
With the commission in place, there is hope for improved infrastructure, economic empowerment, and post-conflict reconstruction. But beyond development, there is a lingering issue: identity.
Why “North Central” and Not “Middle Belt”?
For decades, the Middle Belt has been more than just a geographical expression—it has been a socio-political movement. The term represents a diverse collection of ethnic groups who have long struggled for political recognition and autonomy, distinct from the dominant Hausa-Fulani influence of the North.
Many people from the region feel that calling it the Middle Belt Development Commission would have been a stronger acknowledgment of their identity, struggles, and aspirations. They argue that North Central is merely a geopolitical term created by the government, while Middle Belt is a cultural and historical reality.
Government’s Likely Reasoning
While the push for the Middle Belt name was strong, the government likely settled for North Central for a few reasons:
- Official Recognition: North Central is one of Nigeria’s six recognized geopolitical zones, making it easier to pass the bill and secure funding.
- Avoiding Political Controversy: The Middle Belt identity has often been viewed as a challenge to the Northern establishment. Naming the commission after it might have sparked resistance from the core North.
- Following Precedent: Other development commissions, such as the North East Development Commission (NEDC) and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), are named after geopolitical zones rather than cultural or ethnic identities.
Beyond the Name: The Real Work Begins
While the debate over the name continues, what matters most is ensuring that the commission delivers real impact. Advocates of the Middle Belt cause must now focus on holding the government accountable to ensure that the NCDC truly serves the interests of the people, regardless of its name.
The battle for recognition doesn’t end here. If anything, the establishment of this commission proves that when the people speak with one voice, the government listens—at least to some extent. The next step is ensuring that this voice continues to push for policies that reflect the true aspirations of the Middle Belt.
