The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has revealed that the 2025 federal budget allocates over ₦585 billion to the Northwest Development Commission (NDC), a figure exceeding the budget presented by the Kano State governor Abba Kabir Yusuf.
Senator Barau disclosed this during a send-off ceremony for 70 youths sponsored by his foundation to pursue master’s degrees in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics Engineering, and other advanced fields in India.
Speaking at the event, Senator Barau underscored his commitment to restructuring the Northwest region, focusing on critical sectors such as education, security, infrastructure, and healthcare.
He explained that the substantial allocation to the NDC is part of a broader vision to address the region’s developmental challenges.
“This allocation reflects our resolve to uplift the Northwest and lay the foundation for sustainable progress. Education and skill development are central to this mission.”
Senator Barau praised the NDC for its initiatives and urged its Managing Director, Professor Abdullahi Ma’aji, to design programs that send youths abroad for advanced studies and promote local skill development.
“I told Prof. Ma’aji to prioritize programs that equip our youths with globally competitive skills. This is crucial to reducing reliance on government jobs and fostering entrepreneurship.”
The Deputy Senate President expressed confidence that the youths would return with expertise to drive innovation and economic growth in the region.
Senator Barau reaffirmed his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing his alignment with the government’s vision for Nigeria.
“My loyalty to President Tinubu is unwavering, and I remain committed to supporting policies that ensure Nigeria’s development.”
As the youths prepared to depart for India, Senator Barau’s initiatives stood as a testament to his vision of transforming the Northwest through targeted investments in education and youth empowerment.
Peoplesmind
