Reps inaugurate committee on South-East Development Commission

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has inaugurated the House Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC). Speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday in Abuja, Abbas said the committee’s inauguration reflects a collective commitment to ensuring the South-East receives the development and investment it deserves. He described it as the beginning […]

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has inaugurated the House Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

Speaking at the ceremony on Wednesday in Abuja, Abbas said the committee’s inauguration reflects a collective commitment to ensuring the South-East receives the development and investment it deserves.

He described it as the beginning of renewed efforts to unlock the South-East’s full potential, highlighting the region’s resilience, industry, and strong entrepreneurial spirit.

According to Abbas, establishing the SEDC demonstrates recognition of the urgent need for targeted infrastructural development, economic revitalisation, and social progress in the South-East.

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He noted that the region has long struggled with challenges such as gully erosion, infrastructural decay, economic downturn, youth unemployment, and the lingering effects of insecurity.

Abbas stated that the commission was created to drive recovery, modernisation, and progress, positioning the South-East as a hub for innovation, commerce, and industrial growth.

“I charge this committee to ensure the commission hits the ground running by prioritising infrastructure, supporting industries, developing human capital, and fostering peace and security.

“This is not just about policy oversight; it is about improving the lives of millions who look to us for leadership and tangible solutions,” he said.

Abbas urged committee members to approach their responsibilities with diligence, patriotism, and a deep commitment to the South-East and Nigeria as a whole.

“The task ahead is enormous, and expectations are high. However, with determination and collaboration, I am confident you will rise to the challenge and make a lasting impact.

“You are the first committee to oversee the commission. The foundation you lay will leave a significant mark on the history of this institution,” he added.

He emphasised the need for inclusivity, transparency, and a results-driven approach, ensuring that all policies and projects serve the greater good of the region and the nation.

Abbas pledged the House’s full support to the committee in its efforts to ensure the commission meets its objectives and becomes a model for regional development.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the committee, Rep. Chris Nkwocha, described their work as a transformative journey towards securing a prosperous and sustainable future for the South-East.

He called the establishment of the SEDC, 54 years after the civil war, a monumental achievement that complements the President’s Reintegration, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation (RRR) initiative.

According to him, this action has resonated deeply within the South-East, earning goodwill and paving the way for stronger regional cooperation with the Federal Government.

“As a committee, our mandate is clear: we oversee all matters concerning the South East Development Commission,” Nkwocha stated.

He stressed the need for accountability, ensuring the commission remains transparent and meets the trust and expectations of Nigerians.

“In our oversight duties, we will enforce strict scrutiny to guarantee transparency and effectiveness in all commission activities,” he said.

Nkwocha urged the commission to prioritise impactful, long-term projects rather than superficial initiatives like streetlights or minor interventions with limited benefits.

“Our focus is on ensuring that every intervention delivers lasting value and tangible benefits to the people of the South-East,” he emphasised.

Despite challenges, Nkwocha expressed confidence in the committee’s expertise and dedication to ensuring the SEDC fulfils its mandate and drives real progress.

He urged committee members to uphold the highest standards of transparency and accountability in their work.