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  • SEDC to unveil vision 2050 agenda, seeks unified economic bloc for southeast

    SEDC to unveil vision 2050 agenda, seeks unified economic bloc for southeast

    The Southeast Development Commission (SEDC) will on Tuesday February 3rd unveil an ambitious long-term development blueprint for the region as it prepares to host the Southeast Vision 2050 Regional Stakeholders Forum  in Enugu.

    Speaking at a press conference in Enugu on Monday ahead of the forum, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Hon. Mark Okoye, said the initiative is aimed at addressing decades-long infrastructure deficits, ecological challenges, and economic fragmentation in the Southeast.

    Okoye explained that the SEDC, a federal government agency established to fast-track regional development, has spent the past 11 months laying a solid institutional and strategic foundation following its inauguration on February 10, 2025.

    “By law, the Commission was created to address infrastructure challenges in the Southeast dating back to the civil war era, as well as ecological issues, while also developing a long-term regional master plan in partnership with state and non-state actors,” he said.

    According to him, the Vision 2050 forum, themed “Charting a Shared Path to Sustainable Prosperity for the Southeast,” is the outcome of extensive engagements with Southeast governors and over 250 federal government agencies since the Commission became operational.

    He disclosed that although the Commission is yet to receive funding for project execution, it has developed robust ideas and frameworks to drive development and is determined not to rely solely on government funding.

    Read Also: SEDC approves Enugu relocation, programme rollout for 2026

    Okoye expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Commission decades after the end of the civil war, describing it as a critical step toward addressing historical development gaps in the region.

    He noted that the forum would bring together a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including state governments, the organized private sector, youth groups, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, development partners, commissioners for budget and planning, and the Ministry of Regional Development.

    The MD revealed that at least 73 Southeast indigenes from the diaspora would participate in the forum, while technical sessions would focus on agriculture, food security, energy, industrialization, and youth employment.

    Among key proposals to be discussed is a regional gas pipeline project aimed at ensuring energy security, boosting industrial growth, and creating jobs for young people.

    Okoye also announced plans to establish the Southeast Investment Company, the investment arm of the Commission, which will include a venture capital initiative to support tech startups and innovative enterprises in the region.

    He said a comprehensive policy document would be produced within six weeks after the forum, stressing that the SEDC’s interventions would complement—not replace—existing state-level development efforts.

    “We have clear designs and plans for the Southeast. What we need now is sustained collaboration and funding support to move from planning to execution,” he added.

  • SEDC approves Enugu relocation, programme rollout for 2026

    SEDC approves Enugu relocation, programme rollout for 2026

    The board of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has approved the relocation of the commission’s core operations to Enugu and the rollout of key programmes in 2026.

    The approval was given at the third extraordinary meeting of the board, which also served as its final statutory session for 2025.

    The meeting was chaired by Chief Emeka Wogu, chairman of the board of trustees, SEDC.

    The board reviewed the commission’s programme implementation, institutional performance, and strategic engagements undertaken in 2025.

    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, SEDC, Mark Okoye, described 2025 as a foundational year focused on building systems, governance structures, and strategic partnerships.

    Okoye thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting the establishment and operationalisation of the commission.

    He also acknowledged the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, and the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, for their guidance and collaboration.

    Okoye commended south-east governors for their support, especially Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu state, for providing office space to serve as the commission’s headquarters.

    He appreciated board members, executive directors, civil servants, and support staff for their contributions throughout the year.

    The board noted achievements recorded in 2025, including the development of governance and administrative frameworks and the establishment of internal management and advisory committees.

    It also noted strategic engagements with federal ministries, departments and agencies, development finance institutions, state governments, private sector leaders, and the south-east diaspora.

    The board said progress was made on the south-east regional development plan and the conceptualisation of major infrastructure and economic programmes.

    It added that concrete steps had been taken toward relocating the commission’s core operations to Enugu in early 2026.

    Following deliberations, the board endorsed the 2025 year-in-review report presented by the managing director.

    The board approved operational priorities for the first half of 2026, including full transition to the Enugu headquarters.

    It approved the activation of priority programmes such as the South-East Venture Capital Programme, the M. I. Okpara fellowship, the South-East Investment Company, and the Project Preparation Facility.

    The board also approved the commencement of stakeholder consultations and technical work on the south-east regional development plan.

    It endorsed plans to strengthen institutional capacity through targeted recruitment.

    The board noted the fiscal realities and national policy environment outlined in the 2026 call circular.

    It commended management for maintaining strong partnerships with development finance institutions, federal agencies, state governments, and the private sector.

    The board directed its standing committees to continue providing strategic oversight across environment, projects and partnerships, commercial and industrial development, diversity and inclusion, finance, security, and legal matters.

    The board expressed confidence in the commission’s readiness to roll out visible programmes in 2026.

    Early priorities include operationalising the Enugu headquarters and launching flagship human capital and innovation programmes.

    The board said bankable infrastructure projects would be activated through the project preparation facility and the Southeast Investment company.

    It added that collaboration with south-east state governments would be strengthened on infrastructure, agro-industrial, and social programmes.

    It said engagement with the diaspora and private sector would be expanded to unlock co-financing and investment opportunities.

    “In endorsing the Commission’s relocation to Enugu, the Board affirms that SEDC must remain firmly rooted in the region it was created to serve. This move is more than administrative; it is a symbolic and strategic step toward ensuring our work is directly felt by the communities whose future we are shaping,” Wogu said.

    “The South East is ready for bankable projects. Our focus is to build credibility, structure, and partnerships that unlock long-term financing for transformational infrastructure,” Okoye said.

    The board reaffirmed its commitment to supporting management in building a transparent, disciplined, and high-performing development institution.

    The board thanked partners, stakeholders, and residents of the south-east, expressing optimism that 2026 would be defined by delivery and measurable impact.

  • Budget passed, SEDC yet to get funds – Deputy Speaker Kalu

    Budget passed, SEDC yet to get funds – Deputy Speaker Kalu

    The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has revealed that the release of funds for the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has been delayed but will happen soon.

    Kalu made this known when he appeared as a guest on a Channels Television programme, Political Paradigm.

    Speaking on the progress made so far regarding the SEDC, Kalu said, “Where we are is implementation, release of funds, which is a general problem.

    “The fund is going to come when others are coming, and in a few days, a few weeks, the agency will have funds to begin to activate the dreams of the region.”

    Read Also: SEDC director seeks renewed partnership in regional development

    Kalu said the commission was conceived to address the “Reconstruction, Reintegration and Reconciliation” promised to the region after the civil war, but never implemented.

    “You know, Southeast passed through a civil war. Even though the history books are no longer talking much about it, which is not right because we have to learn from history, for it does not repeat itself,” he stated.

    He said failure to implement the three Rs deepened bitterness in the region for decades, making the SEDC an essential tool for healing.

    Kalu said the National Assembly passed the bill with bipartisan support, while the president assented to it because of his love for the South East.

    The Deputy Speaker added that the SEDC would support agriculture, power, infrastructure, technology, and commerce in the region, while also addressing insecurity through economic empowerment.

    Kalu also noted that the president had approved the South East Investment Company (SEIC) to attract diaspora and private equity contributions for regional rebuilding.

  • SEDC director seeks renewed partnership in regional development

    SEDC director seeks renewed partnership in regional development

    The Executive Director of Corporate Services at the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Dr. Sylvester Okonkwo, has called for renewed partnership in regional development.

    Okonkwo, who stated this while extending appreciating Dr. Owen Chiedozie Nwokolo, Bishop on the Niger, for the warm letter of felicitation from the Diocese following his appointment by the Federal Government to the newly inaugurated Commission, expressed gratitude for the recognition accorded to him.

    Okonkwo, a devout Anglican and Knight of Saint Christopher, made this known in a statement in Abuja, following the conclusion of the 33rd Synod of the Diocese on the Niger, held from June 5-8, 2025 at St. Barnabas Anglican Church, Ojoto, in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State.

    The Synod, with the theme “Christ in You, the Hope of Glory” (Colossians 1:27), brought together over 720 clergy and laity, including high-ranking members of the clergy, government officials, traditional rulers and community leaders. It was a profound moment of spiritual reflection, regional unity and national advocacy.

     Okonkwo, while expressing gratitude for the recognition accorded to him, emphasized the historical and spiritual significance of the Diocese on the Niger—the oldest Anglican Diocese in Nigeria, tracing its foundation to the mission of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther and the Church Missionary Society in 1864.

    “I am deeply honoured by the Diocese’s gracious acknowledgment of my appointment. To be recognized by this great citadel of faith, where discipline, development, and devotion converge, is a most humbling gesture,” Okonkwo said.

    He lauded the Synod for what he described as “a robust communiqué grounded in truth and national healing,” particularly its commendation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the South East Development Commission (SEDC)—a visionary act that finally responds to the post-war promise of Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Reconciliation (RRR).

    Read Also: Akpabio constitutes standing committees for SSDC, SEDC, NWDC, SWDC, NCDC

    “The Diocese rightly framed this as not just a political gesture, but as a historic turning point for justice, equity,l and reintegration of the South East into the core fabric of national development. We at SEDC embrace this responsibility with open hearts and clear minds,” he added.

     Okonkwo also extended appreciation to His Royal Highness, Igwe Gerald Mbamalu, Eze Ojoto III, for his exceptional leadership and gracious hosting of the Synod in Ojoto, a community he described as “a beacon of Igbo hospitality, excellence, and spiritual grounding.”

    The SEDC Executive Director used the opportunity to call on the faithful, government leaders, and development partners to join hands with the Diocese on the Niger, and by extension the Church, in elevating its far-reaching efforts in education, healthcare, youth empowerment, and social development.

    “The Church is more than a spiritual refuge. It is an agent of transformation. For over a century, the Diocese on the Niger has built schools, hospitals, moral institutions, and leaders. Supporting this institution is not optional—it is essential to building a resilient and ethical society,” Okonkwo emphasised.

  • Minister sets agenda for development commissions

    Minister sets agenda for development commissions

    Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, on Thursday, urged the development commissions to work towards a common national objective of equitable and sustainable development that leaves no citizen behind in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    He spoke in Lagos at the opening of a three-day ‘retreat on institutional coordination for development’.

    Its theme is: “Improving institutional coordination for better development results.”

    The participants include the management and staff of the ministry, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), North East Development Commission (NEDC), South East Development Commission (SEDC), and North West Development Commission (NWDC).

    On the tasks before them, the minister said: “Our agenda must prioritise growth, bridges, transportation needs, investments, healthcare delivery, security, digital infrastructure, and youth/women empowerment.”

    To drive and sustain performance, Momoh stressed that the ministry will introduce a system of peer review among the commissions to foster healthy competition and continuous improvement.

    According to him, NEDC, SEDC, and NWDC will sign a performance bond with the ministry, with benchmarks and performance indicators against which they will be assessed.

    He urged the management and staff of the ministry and commissions to operate with the spirit of healthy competition and work in harmony.

    “As success is collective, the development of one region contributes to the stability and prosperity of the entire nation,” he said.

    Giving insight into why the agencies were created, Momoh said: “The president, in his characteristic wisdom and foresight, has prioritised regional development, planning and implementation by establishing five new regional development commissions, in addition to the two already in existence, each representing the six geo-political zones.

    “This bold initiative is anchored on a strategic commitment to development, recognising the need for a multi-sectoral approach to catalyse regional development.”

    He said the NEDC is rebuilding infrastructure and restoring hope; the SEDC is expected to catalyse economic growth, industrialisation, infrastructural development, and social integration, while the NWDC will focus on restoring stability, enhancing agricultural productivity, and rebuilding infrastructure in communities affected by banditry.

    Read Also: Minister greets women, staff on Workers Day

    He said new projects will commence while existing ones will be completed.

    Momoh said the event was an opportunity to reflect on the assignment and strengthen the synergy between the ministry and the commissions with the aim of transforming the regions into “zones of prosperity”.

    Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, said there is a plan to replicate the 50-bed hospital project in most of the commissions.

    He said the new commissions will conduct a needs assessment, adding that new projects will be initiated where necessary, while existing ones will be completed.

    According to him, the retreat was to understand each commission’s mandate and share ideas, adding that it will not be another talk shop.

    Also at the event were chairmen and managing directors of the commissions.

  • Okechukwu lauds Tinubu’s committment to SEDC

    Okechukwu lauds Tinubu’s committment to SEDC

    The Executive Director (Projects), South-East Development Commission (SEDC) and former Deputy Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Toby Okechukwu, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his vision and commitment in integrating the South Eastern part of Nigeria into his developmental policies, through the interventionist commission.

    Okechukwu gave the commendation on Tuesday during the Orji River Economic and Development Summit held in Orji River Local Government Area of Enugu State.

    The primary objectives of the Economic and Development Summit were to: create awareness of the potential of Oji River in terms of location and natural resources, promote long term and sustainable development and prosperity and Encourage investment and collaboration between public and private sectors as well as external stakeholders.

    Delivering his goodwill message at the event,  Okechukwu, who once represented Aninri, Awgu, and Orji River Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, said that the SEDC was set up with a clear mission to drive sustainable development and position the South-East as Africa’s preferred investment destination by 2030.

    The former lawmaker lamented the war decades ago damaged more than infrastructure, as it also broke the region’s momentum, stressing that the mission of the commission is to drive sustainable development, economic growth, and unity in the South East through strategic investments and empowerment initiatives.

    Okechukwu said: “The Commission was established under the SEDC Act 2024 and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as a critical vehicle to accelerate the recovery, reinvention, and prosperity of the South East region. 

    “The war decades ago damaged more than our roads and homes, disrupted our economic rhythm, slowed our institutions, and deepened a sense of marginalization. SEDC is our collective answer to that history. We must not wait for the centre to fix the East. We have to do it ourselves and do it smartly.

    “Our mission is to drive sustainable development, economic growth, and unity in the South East through strategic investments and empowerment initiatives.

    ” Our vision is to position the South East as the preferred investment destination in Africa by 2030. We are therefore taking action: To build a $1 billion asset base within 10 years by strategically leveraging both public and private capital. We are developing programs for urban renewal, energy hubs, innovation corridors, and agro-industrial zones.

    “The war decades ago damaged more than our roads and homes, disrupted our economic rhythm, slowed our institutions, and deepened a sense of marginalization. SEDC’s clear roadmap demonstrates that we are not just a bureaucracy; we are focused on long-term goals while executing in real time.

    ” It is a business-minded, regionally driven platform for catalytic change. We are launching security interventions, investing in startups, restoring broken infrastructure, and activating our human capital.”

    Focusing on the summit’s host community, Orji River, Okechukwu described the Local Government Area as uniquely positioned within the Awka–Enugu–Onitsha economic corridor, whose economy, when properly harnessed, should be above many in the country.

    He urged stakeholders in Oji River to take advantage of key SEDC opportunities, including the Priority Project Fund, diaspora-driven urban planning, youth enterprise grants, regional security investments, and the planned 50,000-hectare agricultural development initiative.

    “Oji River is not on the margin of development. It is on the edge of opportunity. The future of this region depends on smart alignment, and Oji River should not be looking only inward. 

    “We should be thinking across borders economically, logistically, and strategically. Oji River doesn’t need to wait to be absorbed into someone else’s plan. It has to position itself and shape the agenda.

    “SEDC has allocation available to each state for high-impact projects. This money is not allocated based on size; it is allocated based on readiness. Identify the land. Mobilise your cooperatives. Get into the conversation. If you are stable, connected, and well-policed, you become a node of confidence in the regional economy.”

    He also emphasised the need for strategy and coordination as the people of Oji River mobilize for the new wave of growth.

    Read Also: PDP must apologise for overheating polity – APC chieftain Okechukwu 

    “The people of Oji River are not lacking in talent. We are not lacking in ideas. What we need now is organisation, structure, and speed. There needs to be a deliberate effort to identify Oji River’s comparative advantage. Put together your priority project list. Build your partnerships. Package your proposals. Make them bankable.”

    The former lawmaker also appreciated the National Assembly, particularly, the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Benjamin Kalu for legislative ingenuity in ensuring that SEDC Act was enacted, passed, and assented to.

    Chronicling President Tinubu’s administration’s efforts for the development of the South East region, He hailed the President for several projects that are beneficial to the region such as the construction of the Abia Airport, launch of the 5th Expanded National MSME Clinic in Enugu State and so on.

    Rt. Hon Toby used the occasion to reaffirm his personal and professional commitment to the growth of Oji River and the Greater Awgu region.

    “I may hold a new portfolio, but my commitment to this place has never changed. Where Oji River is building, I will be there. Where your ideas are ready, I will open doors. Where your ambition matches your execution, I will match it with advocacy. Let’s not talk about the future anymore. Let’s build it,” he added.

  • South East Investment Corporation and the dawn of a new economic era in Alaigbo

    South East Investment Corporation and the dawn of a new economic era in Alaigbo

    By Jerrywright Ukwu

    The South East Development Commission (SEDC) inaugurated an ad-hoc committee to develop the conceptual framework that would help establish the South East Investment Corporation (SEIC) on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. 

    This initiative comes at a time when the south east needs to harness its vast economic potential and position itself as a key player in Nigeria’s investment landscape. 

    With a well-thought-out structure, the committee members drawn from the organized private sector, will position the SEIC to play a critical role in transforming the south east into an economic powerhouse, not just within Nigeria but across Africa.

    One of the most commendable aspects of the committee is the calibre of professionals who make up its members. The committee members are not only drawn from the south east but also different parts of Nigeria, ensuring that the initiative is inclusive and aligns with the principles of federal character. 

    This diversity of thought and experience is expected to bring innovative solutions to the challenges of investment attraction and economic growth in the region.

    The committee comprises a distinguished group of professionals with extensive expertise across various sectors. Michael Nzewi, the Group Managing Director/CEO of CardinalStone Partners, has significant experience in investment banking, having worked with Standard Chartered Bank, Vetiva Capital Management, and PwC. 

    Ogonna Nneji, Partner at Albourne Partners, leads the Risk Advisory unit and has a PhD in Finance from the University of Reading. 

    He has a background in quantitative analysis, including his previous role as a Quantitative Strategist at FBNQuest Asset Management. 

    Stella Duru, a Partner at Banwo & Ighodalo, is a highly regarded legal expert with over 23 years of experience in the energy and natural resources sectors. 

    She earned her LL.B from the University of Lagos and has been recognized as a top leader in project development and corporate law.

    The committee also includes Fola Fagbule, Senior VP and Head of Financial Advisory at the Africa Finance Corporation, who brings vast expertise in infrastructure and corporate finance. Fola holds an MBA from Lagos Business School and a BSc in Physics from the University of Lagos. 

    Obianuju Uchenna, a structured finance expert, has a rich background in investment banking and international development consulting, having worked at Goldman Sachs and Avery Row. She holds advanced degrees from Oxford, Sciences Po, and Columbia University. 

    Ifeatu Onejeme, a seasoned finance professional, previously served as the Commissioner for Finance in Anambra State and has significant experience in banking. 

    He graduated with First Class Honours in Accounting from the University of Nigeria and has attended prestigious institutions, including Wharton Business School. 

    Read Also: Arthur Eze hosts SEDC board members, articulates vision, goals for regional transformation

    Chinedu Nwigwe, an expert in infrastructure development and PPPs, has nearly two decades of experience in sectors like transport, urban infrastructure, and energy. He holds an MBA in Public-Private Partnerships from the Malaysian University of Science and Technology. 

    Mukhtar Mohammed, with 24 years of experience in the financial sector, specializes in banking, pension funds, and asset management, holding two master’s degrees in business and international affairs.

    The SEIC is expected to facilitate investments into critical sectors such as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), agribusiness, manufacturing, and services. By focusing on these sectors, the corporation aims to create a thriving business ecosystem that can compete nationally and internationally. 

    The committee members, working virtually without pay for an initial four-week period, are expected to draft a white paper outlining the conceptual framework for the programme. This document will serve as the foundation for the SEIC’s operations, detailing strategies for investment attraction, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.

    There are expectations that SEIC will explore various funding sources for the benefit of the south east by collaborating with private investors, utilising federal and state government subsidies, establishing regional funding pools, engaging with development institutions like the African Development Bank or the World Bank for potential funding opportunities and consider bonds or sustainable infrastructure financing options for projects in the region. 

    Another major area of focus for the SEIC is the enhancement of economic activities in Aba, Onitsha, and Nnewi, three of the most industrious cities in the south east. Aba, known for its entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship, stands to benefit from increased investments in manufacturing and SME development. 

    Onitsha, a commercial hub with one of the largest markets in West Africa, will witness an upsurge in trade opportunities and improved infrastructure. Meanwhile, Nnewi, the industrial nerve centre of the south east, will see a renewed push towards industrialisation, fostering local production and reducing reliance on imports.

    Beyond facilitating immediate investments, the SEIC will be tasked with developing a comprehensive master plan for the long-term economic transformation of the south east. 

    This entails securing strategic partnerships like collaborating with the Nigeria Railway Corporation to initiate rail transport and logistics. SEIC can leverage the NRC’s existing infrastructure and expertise to develop new rail lines or upgrade existing ones, enhancing connectivity within the region. 

    This collaboration can focus on creating efficient transportation networks that support economic activities, especially in industrial hubs like Nnewi and commercial centres like Onitsha and Aba. 

    The corporation will also ensure transparent financial management, accounting for every kobo that flows into the region, and creating mechanisms to attract private investors, especially from Ndigbo, to reinvest in their homeland.

    More importantly, the SEIC’s objectives align with the investment agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritises attracting investments into Nigeria. 

    The President’s manifesto insists on fostering an enabling environment for businesses, improving access to finance, and enhancing the country’s overall economic competitiveness. 

    By establishing a dedicated entity for investment promotion in the south east, the SEIC will contribute to the realisation of these national objectives while ensuring that the region becomes a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s economic growth strategy.

    The launch of the committee represents a proactive approach to addressing the economic challenges facing the south east, all thanks to the Mark Okoye-led SEDC. 

    With a well-structured committee, a clear mandate, and a commitment to sustainable development, the corporation is set to become a catalyst for transformation. If successfully implemented, this initiative will not only boost the region’s economy but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall prosperity.

    The south east has long been known for its entrepreneurial excellence and industrious spirit. With the SEIC in place, the region will have a structured mechanism to translate its economic potential into tangible growth and development. 

    This is not just an initiative; it is a movement towards a prosperous and self-sustaining south east, and indeed, a stronger Nigeria.

    The journey to economic transformation has begun. The task ahead is immense, but with the right policies, partnerships, and commitment, the south east is poised to become an investment destination of choice.

    – Jerrywright Ukwu, a journalist writes from Abuja. He can be reached at jerrywrightukwu.o@gmail.com.

  • SEDC board launches South East tour, visits Ebonyi Gov

    SEDC board launches South East tour, visits Ebonyi Gov

    The Board Members of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) led by its Board Chairman, Dr. Emeka Wogu, have embarked on their first official working visit across all five states of the South East.

    This strategic engagement commenced with a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru.

    The visit underscores SEDC’s commitment to fostering sustainable development, regional integration and economic transformation in the South East. 

    Discussions focused on SEDC’s roadmap, collaboration with state governments and strategic interventions to drive industrialization, job creation, security and sustainable investments across the region.

    During the meeting, the SEDC delegation emphasized the pivotal role of Ebonyi State in achieving the Commission’s objectives. 

    The team called for stronger collaboration with the State Government,  and key ministries to ensure the seamless execution of impactful initiatives.

    Governor Nwifuru commended the SEDC’s vision and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive inclusive economic growth and social transformation.

    Read Also: SEDC gets N250b take-off budget

    He urged the Commission to adopt a practical, results-driven approach and cautioned against reliance on external expertise at the expense of local talents. He further stressed that South Easterners expect visible, high-impact projects from the SEDC within a short timeframe.

    According to the SEDC Team, this visit marks the beginning of engagement with all five South East governors. The Commission said it will continue its regional tour, meeting with stakeholders to align development strategies, harmonize policies and accelerate strategic investments.

    With visionary leadership and strong partnerships, the South East Development Commission is set to unlock new opportunities, drive economic prosperity, and chart a transformative path for the region.

  • SEDC gets N250b take-off budget

    SEDC gets N250b take-off budget

    • Reps committee okays regional agency’s 2025 appropriation

    The House of Representatives Committee on South East Development Commission (SEDC) has approved this year’s budget of about N250 billion for the regional agency.

    The committee expressed optimism that the approval would mark the beginning of developing the area, which has been neglected for over 54 years after the civil war.

    Addressing reporters after the budget defence by the commission’s management yesterday in Abuja, Committee Chairman Chris Ukwanta expressed optimism that the approval of the budget would mark the beginning of good things in the Southeast region.

    Praising President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the SEDC Bill into law, the committee chairman noted that with the regional development agency’s budget in place, the neglected part of the Southeast would henceforth begin to witness government presence in infrastructural development.

    He added: “You are aware that after the civil war, the Southeast has been what it ought to be. Remember that at the end of the civil war, there was this promise that was made to us. 

    “You know the three Rs: (Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction promised by the military government of General Yakubu Gowon after the end of the 30-month civil war in 1970). Till today, that has not been done until this President signed the Bill into law. We are talking about 54 years after the civil war.

    “This budget is essentially going to target those areas where there is deficit in infrastructure, erosion and other areas of human capital development need.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s administration not skewing road projects to South — Umahi

    “The commission will be expected to build roads, bridges, railways, and manpower.

    “Although the money will not be enough, this is just a take-off grant. This is just the beginning because the SEDC is just a growing concern and the President has given them this take-off grant.

    “The commission also expects money to come in from federal allocation. I am told that money is also expected to come from the five Southeastern states, from ecological funds coming into the country and from oil companies operating in the Southeast.

    “Even though this is not enough, we need to start from somewhere. But we are grateful to the President that after six military heads of state and five democratically elected Presidents, attention has been given to the Southeast.

    “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a step. Even those boys that are causing trouble, when they see that the region is now being taken care of, what they are doing now will not continue. 

    “If you want to develop the Southeast, there has to be love. If there is no peace and security, there is nothing we can do. The budget is also aimed at addressing insecurity, unemployment, and youth develop

  • Former DG Governors’ Forum Onaiwu hails Tinubu on creation of SEDC

    Former DG Governors’ Forum Onaiwu hails Tinubu on creation of SEDC

    A former Director-General of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, has congratulated President Ahmed Tinubu on the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), describing it as a bold step towards addressing the long-standing developmental challenges in the region.

    The SEDC, a newly established initiative, aims to tackle critical issues such as erosion, insecurity, and the decline in education that have persisted in the South East since the end of the Nigerian Civil War.

    The commission will be responsible for coordinating development projects, attracting investments, and spearheading key infrastructure development, including roads, bridges, and water resources.

    In a statement, Onaiwu praised President Tinubu’s vision and commitment to ensuring the progress of the South East, emphasizing that the SEDC would play a crucial role in boosting economic growth, improving living conditions, and enhancing the overall well-being of the people.

    “I commend President Tinubu for his vision and commitment to addressing the development needs of the Southeast region,” Onaiwu said. “The establishment of the SEDC is a significant step towards promoting economic growth, improving living standards, and enhancing the overall well-being of the people in the region.”

    Read Also: Tinubu arrives Ethiopia for AU summit

    He also called on South East Governors to fully align with the President’s agenda for the SEDC, urging them to collaborate with local communities and other stakeholders in identifying the region’s most pressing needs and implementing strategic solutions.

    According to him, such a partnership would ensure that development efforts are tailored to the specific requirements of the South East, leading to maximum impact.

    Onaiwu reaffirmed his support for the initiative, pledging to contribute towards the successful implementation of the SEDC’s mandate.

    The establishment of the SEDC marks a significant milestone in the federal government’s efforts to address the unique challenges facing the South East, paving the way for sustainable growth and development in the region.