The Senate on Thursday passed the bill seeking the establishment of a North East Development Commission to rebuild the insurgency-ravaged North East region of Nigeria.
The bill passed the third reading after earlier disagreements over funding sources and headquarters.
The Senate approved the allocation of three per cent of Value Added Tax accrual to the Federal Government in the next 10 years for the rebuilding of the North East through the proposed commission.
The report on the commission was laid by Murtala Nyako (APC-Adamawa), chairman of the committee on special duties.
In his remark after the bill was passed, Senate President, Bukola Saraki, said, “With this commission, I hope we can collaborate and address humanitarian crisis and challenges in the North East.”
“The Senate will transfer the bill to the House of Representatives for concurrence before forwarding it to President Muhammadu Buhari for assent.”
“If it scales the remaining procedural hurdles, the commission will have its headquarters in Borno State, the worst hit by Boko Haram terrorism.”
“I am truly elated at the passing of the NEDC bill today by the 8th National Assembly of the Federation. Today marks the beginning of a new future for the North East, and the vision of its restoration shall now soon be a reality.”
“This milestone would not have been possible without the contributions of you all who have been active every step of the way advising, debunking and criticising, strategizing and constructively debating aspects of this Bill that would in the end determine the impact of this great avenue for restoration of our homes and heritage.”
“It is therefore with great pride and joy that I celebrate with you today on this strategic achievement that will ensure a better future for the entire North Eastern Region in particular and Nigeria in general,” he added.