February 17, 2026 — The Nigerian Senate has issued a direct charge to the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), urging the body to place agriculture and regional security at the forefront of its 2026 fiscal planning.
During a recent oversight session, lawmakers emphasized that the North Central zone—widely regarded as the “food basket of the nation”—requires targeted investment to reclaim its agricultural dominance and protect farmers from persistent insecurity.
The Senate Committee overseeing the commission noted that while infrastructure remains important, the immediate survival and economic stability of the region depend on two interconnected pillars:
Agricultural Revitalization: Modernizing farming techniques, providing high-quality inputs, and supporting small-scale farmers to boost national food reserves.
Enhanced Security: Implementing strategic measures to protect farming communities from banditry and communal clashes, which have historically disrupted planting seasons.
The Senate underscored that the 2026 budget must reflect “impact-driven” projects rather than vague administrative expenditures. By focusing on these two sectors, the NCDC is expected to create jobs for the region’s youth and lower the rising cost of food across Nigeria.” The North Central has the potential to feed the entire country, but this can only happen if the environment is secure and the farmers are empowered,” the committee noted during the briefing.
Key Takeaways for 2026
Priority Area: Expected Outcome
Security Infrastructure: Safer trade routes and protected farmlands.
Agro-Processing: Increased value-add for crops like yams, grain, and cassava.
Resource Allocation: Transparent funding for grassroots developmental projects.
The NCDC is now expected to refine its budget proposal to align with these legislative priorities before the final defense.
