North Sumatra Governor Outlines Three Development Priorities for Nias Islands

North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution has outlined three development priorities for the Nias Islands. The provincial government has divided the thematic development plan into three areas: developing an economic centre in Gunungsitoli City, establishing an agricultural hub in West Nias Regency, and strengthening the tourism sector in South Nias Regency. The governor made the statement after receiving representatives from the Banua Niha Keriso Protestan (BNKP) in Gunungsitoli, Nias Islands, on Thursday. He noted that the provincial government has mapped out the direction for Nias over the next five years. Bobby is conducting a five-day working visit to the Nias Islands from 5 to 9 August 2026 as part of efforts to accelerate development in the archipelago. He added that if there are agricultural areas in North Nias Regency, the provincial government will provide support. The governor also scheduled direct dialogues with various community elements in Nias to gather aspirations and communicate the development direction for the next five years. He expressed gratitude for BNKP’s support of the provincial government’s programmes, particularly development in the Nias Islands. Ephorus Ritter Dachi of BNKP affirmed the church’s commitment to continue backing the provincial government’s development programmes in the region. He also expressed hope that the provincial government would support the BNKP Synod scheduled to be held on Tello Island, South Nias Regency, in 2027, which will be attended by BNKP representatives from across Indonesia.