The 149th National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, has outlined major initiatives aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy while paying tribute to victims of recent violent attacks in Benue and Plateau States.
Speaking after the meeting, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, described the council’s deliberations as bold and forward-looking. “At the heart of our deliberations were bold, forward-looking decisions aimed at revitalizing our economy and securing a prosperous future for our people,” he stated.
Among the key outcomes was the endorsement of the Cotton, Textile, and Garment Development Board, which Governor Alia said holds “immense promise for industrial growth, job creation, and revitalization of our once-thriving textile heritage.”
The council also approved strategies for agribusiness expansion and livestock transformation, projected to unlock up to $90 billion in economic value by 2035. In addition, a national office for the Green Imperative Project (GIP) will be established in Abuja, with regional offices across the six geopolitical zones to drive agricultural innovation and investment nationwide.
On a somber note, Governor Alia commended the NEC for observing a minute of silence in honor of victims of the recent killings in Benue and Plateau States. “I deeply appreciate this gesture and join the entire NEC in extending heartfelt condolences to the families and communities affected,” he said.
The meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to both economic revitalization and national solidarity amid ongoing security challenges.
