Northern Regional Minister Demands Accountability from MMDAS to Tackle Underdevelopment
The Northern Regional Minister, Mr. Ali Adolf John, has challenged Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) in the region to raise more Internally Generated Funds (IGF) and embrace transparency to bridge the region’s infrastructure and jobs gap.
Speaking at the First Expanded Northern Regional Coordinating Council meeting for 2026 held on Thursday, July 2, at the Residency Round Pavilion in Tamale, the Minister said over-reliance on the central government transfers was no longer sustainable.
Mr. Ali Adolf John addressed MMDCEs, Presiding Members, Heads of Departments and development partners that despite progress under President Mahama’s Resetting Agenda, the region still grapples with infrastructure deficits, youth unemployment, erratic rainfall affecting farming, and peace and security challenges.
“We have a common enemy in underdevelopment, and together we must confront it by creating opportunities that will enable our people to thrive,” he said.
He announced the government’s commitment to increasing the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) allocations to Assemblies. Still, he stressed that this must be matched by stronger IGF mobilisation at the local level.
The Minister urged MMDCEs to provide inclusive leadership by working closely with Coordinating Directors, Presiding Members and communities to ensure projects reflect actual local needs.
He emphasized that prudent financial management, transparency and accountability in handling public resources are non-negotiable for sustainable development.
Acting Chief Director, Mr. Sumaila Ewuntomah Abudu, who welcomed participants, described the RCC as the highest coordinating body in the region.
He urged technocrats to give sound technical advice and reminded public servants that their loyalty is to the government of the day.
The meeting reviewed sector reports, including updates on the Government’s Big Push Infrastructure Projects, with ongoing road works and implementation challenges and progress on the 24-Hour Economy Model Market Initiative in the various districts among other important issues.
Bala Ali, ISD
