North East Regional Minister Ibrahim Tia has declared that communities experiencing recurring conflicts risk missing out on government development projects. He stressed that peace remains a prerequisite for infrastructure investment and socio-economic development. This firm stance was communicated during a working tour of the Bunkpurugu-Nakpanduri and Yunyoo Districts, where Mr. Tia inspected several ongoing and completed government initiatives.
The Minister's tour covered a range of vital infrastructure, including schools, health facilities, roads, bridges, and the flagship 24-Hour Economy Market projects. His warning directly links local stability to the allocation of public funds for essential services. This policy aims to incentivise peaceful coexistence among communities in the region.
This directive aligns with the broader national agenda to foster development across all regions, particularly those historically affected by communal tensions. The government's investment in infrastructure, such as the GHS 4.2 billion allocated for road projects in the 2024 budget, is contingent on creating an environment conducive to construction and long-term sustainability. Persistent conflicts not only disrupt project timelines but also escalate security costs, diverting resources from core development objectives. The North East Region, like many others, relies on these investments to bridge development gaps and improve living standards.
Mr. Tia explicitly stated, "Any community where there is conflict, not even a single project will go there, no matter what." He added, "Communities where there are conflicts have not received projects, and until there is absolute peace, we will not send any project there." This clear message from the Regional Minister underscores the government's non-negotiable position on peace as a foundation for progress.
The immediate implication is that communities with ongoing disputes must resolve their differences to attract government development. Decision-makers and local leaders will need to prioritise peacebuilding efforts to ensure their areas benefit from planned infrastructure. The government's commitment to projects like the 24-Hour Economy Market, designed to boost local trade, will only materialise in stable environments. This policy will likely influence local governance and community engagement strategies in the coming months, as regions compete for limited development resources.
During his inspection, Mr. Tia visited Nyalinkpa, an underserved community near Nakpanduri, to observe the construction of a new primary school. This project aims to improve access to quality basic education, replacing makeshift structures where pupils previously studied. The headteacher, Emmanuel Konlan, expressed hope that the new building would be completed before the new academic year in September.
The Minister also inspected the Sayegu-Mambaga-Kanbatiak Road project, which he described as critical for improving transportation and economic activities. At Najong Two, a completed health facility received praise for improving primary healthcare access. However, community members appealed for the introduction of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) services at the facility to maximise its benefits.
A planned Technical Senior High School faced a setback after Mr. Tia found structural defects in its 12-unit classroom block. He directed that the facility remain closed until all deficiencies are rectified, suspending plans to admit students in September. This decision prioritises student safety over immediate occupancy. Mr. Tia also urged contractors on the Najong-Bunkpurugu section of the Nakpanduri-Bunkpurugu Road to accelerate construction.
In Bunkpurugu Township, the Minister inspected the ongoing construction of the 24-Hour Economy Market. The contractor requested timely release of funds, which Mr. Tia assured would be communicated to the appropriate authorities. The tour continued in the Yunyoo District, covering the newly constructed Jimbale Bridge, the proposed site for the Yunyoo Senior High School, and another 24-Hour Economy Market project at Nasuan. These inspections highlight the government's broad investment in regional development, contingent on peace.