The Northern Regional Minister, Hon. Ali Adolf John, has called for renewed commitment, discipline, and stronger collaboration among Heads of Departments to accelerate development across the Northern Region.
Addressing the first Management Meeting of Regional Heads of Departments and Units of the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC) held at the Conference Hall on Tuesday, 28 April, 2026, the Minister underscored the pivotal role of leadership in translating government policies into tangible outcomes for the people.
Welcoming participants to the maiden meeting of the year, Hon. Ali Adolf John expressed appreciation for their dedication despite prevailing challenges, while extending New Year wishes. He described the meeting as a critical platform to strengthen coordination, enhance efficiency, and ensure that government programmes deliver meaningful impact.
βThe role you play in shaping policies, implementing programmes, and translating government priorities into tangible results cannot be over-emphasized,β he stated.
In his opening remarks, the Acting Chief Director, Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu, warmly welcomed participants and expressed gratitude for their presence and commitment to the meeting.
He subsequently led a comprehensive session reviewing the performance of various departments, where Heads of Departments engaged in detailed discussions on challenges confronting their respective sectors. The deliberations also focused on practical solutions and strategic measures to improve performance and ensure greater efficiency in the delivery of services going forward.
The Minister stressed that effective collaboration remains the cornerstone of regional development, noting that challenges in key sectors such as health, education, water and sanitation (WASH), roads, and security are interconnected and cannot be addressed in isolation.
He, however, expressed concern over the practice of some Heads of Departments delegating subordinates to attend crucial meetings and delays in submitting reports. He cautioned that such actions undermine coordination and reflect disregard for established procedures.
Hon. Ali Adolf John urged all departmental heads to desist from the practice and actively participate in meetings, emphasizing that timely reporting and direct engagement are essential for informed decision-making and collective progress.
βWe must not work in silos. Let us foster a culture of transparency where information is shared and solutions are developed collectively,β he advised.
The Minister also commended the Heads of Departments for their contributions to the successful two-day regional βResetting Tour,β noting their sacrifice and commitment in ensuring its success.
He further charged them to take keen interest in developments at the Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs), emphasizing their supervisory role in guiding and monitoring projects within their respective sectors.
Touching on key government initiatives, Hon. Ali Adolf John highlighted the rollout of the 24-hour economy markets across all 16 MMDAs in the region. He noted that these markets are expected to integrate essential social services such as kindergarten schools and clinics, requiring the active involvement of the education and health sectors.
He also pointed to the increasing number of infrastructure projects in education, WASH, and healthcare being undertaken by MMDAs, stressing the need for departmental heads to stay informed and prepared, as these facilities will eventually be handed over to their respective departments for management.
The Minister urged all Heads of Departments to familiarize themselves with the governmentβs Resetting Agenda and align their sectoral activities accordingly. He emphasized that understanding national priorities is crucial for effective policy implementation at the regional level.
He encouraged open dialogue during the meeting, inviting participants to share ideas, challenges, and recommendations. While assuring them of his leadership and support, he emphasized that effective governance requires initiative, dedication, and a results-driven mindset from all stakeholders.
Concluding his address, Hon. Ali Adolf John called on all participants to leave the meeting with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to service delivery.
βLet us work together, lead with integrity, and deliver on our mandate,β he urged.
The meeting is expected to strengthen coordination and enhance performance among departments in the Northern Region as government intensifies efforts to drive development and improve livelihoods.