Northeast Development Commission And Infrastructural Development In Wukari Local Government, Taraba State, Nigeria

• Adeoti Janet Alaki

  Department of Political Science, Federal University, Wukari, Nigeria

  Author

• Benjamin Dantani

  Taraba State College of Education, Zing

  Author

• Samuel Douglas Banja

  Taraba State College of Education, Zing

  Author

• Joseph John

  Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Taraba State University, Jalingo

  Author

Infrastructural development is a critical driver of post-conflict recovery and socioeconomic stability in regions affected by insurgency and chronic underdevelopment. Established in 2017, the Northeast Development Commission (NEDC) was tasked with leading the reconstruction and development efforts in Nigeria's northeast. While its interventions in epicenters of the Boko Haram conflict have been documented, its role in stabilizing neighboring areas like Taraba State remains under-examined. This study investigates the scope and assesses the effectiveness and sustainability of NEDC-led infrastructural projects in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State. Anchored on the Basic Needs Theory, the study employed a descriptive survey design, utilizing primary data from semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with community leaders, beneficiaries, and local officials, supplemented by secondary data from relevant publications. Findings reveal that the NEDC has implemented a multi-sectoral portfolio of projects with significant investments in road rehabilitation, water infrastructure, and education, alongside healthcare, electrification, housing, and skill acquisition. These interventions have tangibly improved agricultural trade, access to clean water, educational conditions, and healthcare delivery, thereby addressing fundamental human needs and enhancing federal government presence. However, the study uncovers critical challenges related to sustainability, including a top-down implementation approach that limits community ownership, the absence of formal maintenance frameworks leading to early infrastructure decay, and inadequate capacity-building components. The study concludes that while the NEDC has made commendable strides in infrastructure provision, the long-term developmental impact in Wukari is jeopardized by these structural weaknesses. It recommends a strategic shift towards institutionalizing participatory governance and integrated sustainability protocols.

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