The Nation Newspaper

Tag: South East

  • South East Development Commission Forum For Vision 2050: Politics or economy?

    South East Development Commission Forum For Vision 2050: Politics or economy?

    A few years ago, this column challenged the South East Governors to be more pragmatic in the way they handle issues concerning the region. It recalled that over the years, several organizations and corporate bodies had organized several economic summits, conferences and other events geared towards developing the region that has seemingly become the weeping child of the Nigerian project.

    More often than not, politicians from the region are tempted to regurgitate the post-war marginalization song that saw the region abandoned despite the vague promises by the Gen. Gowon (Rtd.) administration of the three Rs of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction. As it turned out, nothing was done about the promise of the three Rs but he told the world that the post war petro-dollars was so much for the country they never knew what to do with same. Fifty five years after, the same Gowon is blaming late Emeka Ojukwu for lying about the Aburi Accord and surreptitiously sparking off the war. The response to the ‘praying’ former Head of state is left to historians. But I digress.

    In talking about the South East development issues, it is pertinent to always put our minds back to why we should be talking about the development or lack of same of regions and states that make up the Nigerian federation. There is a place where like the great literary legend, late Achebe said, the rain started beating the South East.

    The first and visible presence of the Igbos in post-civil war Nigeria was in 1979 when Chief Alex Ekwueme became the Vice President to President Shehu Shagari of the National Party of Nigeria. In his home state, Anambra, Chief Jim Nwobodo, a member of the Nigeria Peoples Party was the governor. That was the beginning of the developmental challenges that has plagued the region till today.

    Historians and avid readers of politics in Nigeria can recall with a certain level of disbelief how these two sons of the region ‘fought’ each other for supremacy in that republic. One son was number two at the federal level, the other a governor of a state that comprised; Enugu, present day Ebonyi and Anambra states. The supremacy battle sipped down to developmental projects. The issue was basically who takes credit for what? Would credit go to Chief Ekwueme as an NPN man or to Chief Nwobodo of the NPP? The fight was as devastating to the region as it chronically affected the development of the region. The legendary crying of the then governor of Imo state, late Chief Sam Mbakwe, a member of the NPP party for the sorry state of federal presence to his state would be a reference point to generations for the impact of divisive politics in the region.

    Since 1999, the South East region has been an economic victim of divisive political strategies by the politicians who have represented the people both at state and federal levels. From 1999 to 2011, the region had the privilege of producing several Senate Presidents as the region got the post zoned to it by the ruling PDP. It had the shame of having the greatest turnover of Senate Presidents based on intra-regional intrigues. While other regions plan well politically, the bulk of the politicians from the region display dizzying levels of individualism and selfishness. It hasn’t waned in the 4th republic.

    Beyond the battle for the Senate presidency, the governors and the National Assembly members started their own supremacy battles. Who was more politically relevant, the governors, or their representative at the National Assembly? We had the Ebeano political group in Enugu created to identify with the then Chimaroke Nnamani against his former mentor, Senator Jim Nwobodo, then governor Sam Egwu of Ebonyi was at daggers drawn with Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, then in Imo, it was governor Achike Udenwa vs Senator Ararume, in Abia, former governor Orji Uzor Kalu was slugging it out with Senator Adolphus Wabara and in Anambra, governor late Chinwoke Mbadinuju was on a parallel line basis with the NASS members as the cry of godfatherism brought the state to its knees. The South East region is the only region with five states as against other regions with six. The agitation for a 6th Anioma state would ultimately help to balance the equation.

    Read Also: Kwara attack: NEMA deploys response team, relief items to Kaiama

    So with so much individualistic ego trips by politicians, the South East has never been strategically calculative to drive any solid economic program in a region with the best educated, entrepreneurial, diligent and commercially savvy individuals on earth. The tragedy of the region is not lack of cerebral capacity or diligent manpower, the region is plagued by people who are too vainly egocentric plan for regional economic development.

    While other regions’ politicians are very non-partisan in their strategic politics, the South East has self-aggrandizing if not almost mercantilist players in politics. The political players are often very peripheral players who assume that associating with certain power brokers validate their relevance. That is why on every election year, there are politicians of the region who lead other politicians to make often very vacuous promises of projects that are never actualized till the next campaign.This has led to politicians from other regions joking that the politicians from the zone have a price. The gaping holes in the development index of the region should be blamed on the politicians who play selfish politics and have refused to pull resources together to develop the region in spite of politics and its divisive tactics.

    A few days ago, politicians, technocrats and policy advocates gathered again for the South East Development Commission (SEDC) Forum for Vision 2050 in Enugu which was facilitated by the office of the Vice President,  Senator Kashim Shettima. While this column applauds the SEDC and those who planned and supported the forum, we advocate that it should not be subsumed by the noise for 2027 strategies. The region must not be continually thrown under the bus by its own politicians. The people want politicians to work for them not work against them. Let’s hope the message can sinks in.

    It was interesting listening to some of the the governors’ speeches. The host governor, Peter Mbah insisted that the region would no longer beg for a seat at the table, they are ready to build the table. He reminded his colleagues that there is a need for regional infrastructural development to enhance movement and commerce, security cooperation built on information-sharing and a centralized response hub. Recognition of the value of the regional economic hub to him is a valid aspiration. He stated his commitment to the vision 2050 project.

    With his success with governance in Abia state one anchored on infrastructure, Governor Alex Oti proposed a coordinated regional energy strategy to drive industrialization leading to job creation and rapid industrialization. Aba is presently a poster child for effective power and infrastructural development. Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra state proposed a marshal plan for regional security, infrastructural development and institutional framework.

    The President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Senator John Azuta Mbata believes that a strong financial support for the SEDC by the federal government would be of immense development and reconciliation value. Despite the great contributions of the South East to national development, feelind of exclusion and a sense of marginalization still persist. The SEDC Managing Director, Mark Okoye insists the vision 2050 is intended to produce a long-term development framework for te South East. The zone must work toards transforming into an industrial hub leveraging strategic leadership, regional cooperation and deliberate investment to end decades of underdevelopment.

    As the 4-day event came to a close, the Roundtable Conversation believes that this would not be just another talk shop or a strategically expedient partisan move. No region develops through economic or political rhetoric. There must be the readiness to commit to action. The political elite in the region must walk the talk. Development is merely the idea of working towards enduring legacies that uplift the people. When the region remembers the Akanu Ibiams, the Micheal Okparas, the Ojukwus, the Mbakwes and others it is because they left admirably lasting legacies. The time to start is now.

    • The dialogue continues…  
  • South East happy with appointment of Ihedioha into NRS – Onoh

    South East happy with appointment of Ihedioha into NRS – Onoh

    The former Southeast spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chairman of the Forum of Former Members of the Enugu House of Assembly, Denge Josef Onoh, has defended the appointment of Obinna Ihedioha as an Executive Director, People, Stakeholders & Communication in the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS).

    Onoh described the Federal Government’s appointment as a recognition of professionalism and urged the protesting southeast APC youths to embrace unity since the appointment is merit-driven and aligned with national interest.

    Onoh noted that Ihedioha is a senior-level strategist with over 24 years of distinguished experience in strategy, governance, public sector reform, portfolio management, accountability frameworks, human capital strategy, and stakeholder management.

    He said that Ihedioha’s professional record is exemplary and directly relevant to his new role, where the Directorate oversees human capital management, workforce development, corporate communications, and stakeholder engagement; ensuring a skilled workforce, coherent messaging, strong institutional relationships, and a trusted organizational brand for the NRS.

    Ihedioha had served as the Senior Adviser and Head of Strategy at the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) where he managed an investment portfolio exceeding $4 billion and played a pivotal role in establishing flagship national platforms such as the Africa Sovereign Investment Platform, InfraCredit, Nigeria Mortgage Refinance Company, Development Bank of Nigeria, and RIPLE (Renewable Investment Platform for Limitless Energy).

    Ihedioha also held the positions of Deputy Managing Director at the UK-Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNIAF); Senior Infrastructure Investment Adviser for Adam Smith International, supporting the Presidency and Ministry of Power – Contributing to high-level national and international bodies, including as a member of the G20 Technical Working Group.

    Ihedioha also worked as the World Bank Climate Finance Working Group; Presidential Task Force on Power and the Nigeria Economic Management Team. He had served on the boards of impactful organizations such as CFG Africa, FundiCo, and the Clean Energy Local Currency Fund UKNIAF.

    Onoh stated that Ihedioha’s educational credentials further underscore his expertise, holding a BSc in Political Science from the University of Abuja; an MSc in Public Policy & Management from the University of Manchester, and alumni status from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

    Onoh commended the Chairman of the NRS for making one of the best professional choices in appointing Obinna, rather than resorting to political selection, saying that the decision clearly demonstrates the agency’s prioritization of professionalism, competence, and proven track record as the foundation for delivering tangible positive outcomes to Nigerians.

    “In an institution tasked with revenue optimization and national development, such merit-based appointments are essential for progress. To the APC youth and anyone questioning Obinna’s suitability merely because his brother is a former governor or because he is not perceived as an APC member; this line of criticism stems from a narrow partisan mindset that undermines a progressive vision for a better Nigeria.

    Read Also: Ministers must perform better to enhance APC 2027 chances – Onoh

    “True nation-building demands that we value expertise, dedication, and service to the country above narrow party loyalty. Those who insist on reducing high-level appointments to political patronage alone have no place in the inclusive, talent-driven future we are all working toward one where Nigerians from diverse backgrounds contribute to shared prosperity.”

    Onoh told the protesting APC youths involved that no amount of political pressure or orchestrated campaigns will compel President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse this appointment, revealing that the President remains resolutely focused on ensuring professionalism over partisan politics, particularly in critical sectors of the economy and administration like the Nigeria Revenue Service, which he said is vital to national revenue generation and fiscal stability.

    “Any overbearing attempt to politicize this merit-based decision and reduce it to partisan calculations will not be tolerated, as it runs counter to the administration’s core commitment to competence, national interest, and inclusive governance. The Southeast is extremely proud of Ihedioha’s outstanding professional service record and unwavering commitment to the service of our nation.”

    Onoh urged the APC youths to channel their collective energy into galvanized support for the party, the government, and the nation, rather than dissipating it on issues that distract real development.

  • Umahi faults claim of marginalisation of South East in road projects

    Umahi faults claim of marginalisation of South East in road projects

    The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has dismissed as false and misleading a publication by one Linus Anagboso (known as D-Big Pen) which claimed that the South East was neglected in road infrastructure development.

    This is contained in a statement by Mohammed Ahmed, Director, Press and Public, in the Ministry and made available to newsmen on Monday.

    Umahi said that the publication titled “The Politics of Asphalt: Why is the South East Missing from the Map?” was mischievous and deceptive.

    He demanded that Anagboso retract the statement immediately.

    According to the minister, President Bola Tinubu has been fair to all regions of the country, including the South East.

    He noted that Tinubu had revived 90 per cent of abandoned road projects, some dating back to 2013, and still executing new ones without discrimination.

    He also said that four Legacy Projects were approved to cover all six geo-political zones.

    According to him, one of them, which runs from Cross River through Ebonyi, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa to Abuja, includes a significant portion in the South East; about 231.64 kilometres and is already awarded at a cost of N445.8 billion.

    The minister further said that the last Federal Executive Council meeting approved the review of the corridor length to 231.64 km at the same contract sum.

    He added that Anagboso deliberately misrepresented this as an Oyo-Benue road to mislead the public.

    He listed major projects ongoing in the South East to include the Second Niger Bridge Access Roads; Section 2A in Delta (N146 billion) and Section 2B in Anambra (N176 billion).

    Other major ongoing projects the minister said were the Enugu-Onitsha Road (208 km), with MTN Tax Credit funding of N202 billion and CBC handling the remaining sections for N150 billion.

    ”There is also the Enugu–Port Harcourt Road in four sections; Enugu-Abakaliki, Afikpo-Abia-Imo, Onitsha-Owerri-Aba, Aba-Ikot Ekpene, and Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene,” he said..

    Umahi urged the people of the South East to support Tinubu, noting that his administration had shown fairness and love to the region.

    He also commended the South East governors for supporting the Federal Government and urged citizens to stand by them as they work for their second term in office.

    According to him, One day, the South East will produce the President of Nigeria, but not in 2027.

    He reaffirmed his commitment to correcting any false claims meant to deceive the people.(NAN)

  • TCN decries incessant vandalism of power infrastructure in Southeast

    TCN decries incessant vandalism of power infrastructure in Southeast

    The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has expressed deep frustration over the constant vandalism of the company’s power infrastructure in some communities in the Southeast region.

    The General Manager(Transmission), Enugu Region, Dr. Thomas Inugonum, who raised the concerns when he led the management and staff of the company on sensitisation of seven communities in Agbogugu and Ihe towns in Awgu local government area of Enugu State at the weekend, described the incessant vandalism as a major challenge undermining TCN operations.

    Addressing the leaders of the communities in separate gatherings, Inugonum emphasized the importance of youths in the fight against vandalism. 

    He expressed worries that electricity distribution companies had been using vandalism as an excuse for the poor distribution of power to many communities, saying the development was the main reason the company sought the assistance of the communities in protecting transmission lines, towers and other power infrastructure.

    He lamented that the delay in supplying power was now giving hoodlums opportunities to vandalise power infrastructure in the forests.

    “It’s because of this vandalism that we’re here to beg you to talk to the youths to help protect this infrastructure so that whenever you don’t have electricity, you know the people that are responsible for that. 

    “I say this because we always have 24/7 electricity in our transmission stations, waiting for the DISCOs to distribute them to your homes. But they always attribute their failures to vandalisd power infrastructure,” he said.

    He stated that vandalism was the greatest challenge in Nigeria’s power sector, saying, “traditional rulers, town union presidents, youth leaders, vigilante operatives and the members of the communities are critical stakeholders that will help in curbing the menace.

    “This trend is dangerous, if we continue like this, I am afraid, electricity cannot be sustainable. Other countries are progressing positively but we are progressing backwards”.

    The GMT listed the consequences of vandalism to include interrupted power supply, huge losses, and other associated damages, charging all patriotic citizens to protect these facilities.

    He also explained that the right of way for high voltage power lines were 25 meters left and 25 meters right, adding that it was dangerous to farm or build on the right of way of the transmission lines.

    According to him, people encroaching the company’s right of way may suffer electrocution, fire hazards, and structural collapse, leading to deaths and loss of properties.

    The communities visited included Akanwu, Eziama, Obom and Obodoakpu, all in Agbogugu town as well as Enuguoke, Enuguato and Enuguechi all in Ihe town.

    The leaders of all the communities visited declared their support for the campaign, and vowed to continue to play their own role of protecting the government infrastructure.

    The traditional ruler of Obom Agbogugu HRH Igwe Sunday Orji and the president of Ihe clan, Engr. Solomon Anichukwu, promised to direct their vigilante group to mount surveillance on the infrastructure passing through their towns.

    They appealed to the company to always carry their youths along and treat them as they treat other communities.

    The communities also appealed to TCN to always prevail on the security operatives to ensure prosecution of suspected vandals, and avoid the temptation of granting them bail only for them to return back to the community to become a terror on the people that reported them.

  • 2027: South East ‘ll work for Tinubu’s re-election – Umahi

    2027: South East ‘ll work for Tinubu’s re-election – Umahi

    The Minister of Works, Sen. Dave Umahi, has praised President Bola Tinubu for achievements so far, saying the South East Geo-political Zone is fully in support of him and will work for his re-election.

    Umahi spoke to journalists on Friday night in Lagos, where he dismissed claims that the South East was giving conditions, such as the release of Nnamdi Kanu, to support the President.

    “Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South East to support the President.

    “We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him there,” he said.

    The minister described Tinubu as a listening leader, and expressed faith that Kanu’s release would come through divine grace and dialogue, not  through pressure or politics.

    He said: “President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right.

    “Look at where he picked up the economy from. The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects.”

    Read Also: Umahi apologises to Tinubu, Nigerians over collapsed Lafia-Makurdi highway bridge 

    Umahi highlighted key infrastructure projects being delivered by the current administration in South East, including  rehabilitation of some roads abandoned by past administrations.

    “Let those criticising the president show us what they have done for the country,” he said.

    The minister dismissed  the allegation that the South East was being sidelined in federal appointments, saying  that Tinubu had done more for the geo-political zone than many past leaders.

    He called for unity among political leaders, regardless of party affiliation, noting that governors across the South East — including those from opposition parties — were working well with the President.

    Umahi told journalists  said that he had no intention of contesting for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027.

    “I will not run. I will work for my boss, President Tinubu.

    “APC is the path to achieving what we want. The South East now has a voice at the centre. We will not return to Egypt,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • South East to lead Nigeria’s IT revolution — Obioha

    South East to lead Nigeria’s IT revolution — Obioha

    The South-East region is poised to become Nigeria’s epicenter for IT innovation and expertise, according to Nnedinma Obioha, Founder and CEO of Center Point Multi Solutions. 

    Speaking during a visit to her Aptech IT training center in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obioha highlighted her company’s unwavering commitment to empowering the region’s youth with cutting-edge IT skills.

    “The South-East has the talent and determination needed to lead Nigeria into the next phase of technological advancement,” Obioha said during the visit. 

    “Our mission is to equip young minds with the tools they need to thrive in the global digital economy.”

    Obioha also revealed that Center Point Multi Solutions is finalizing approvals to establish an Aptech IT training center in Ebonyi State, marking the organization’s presence in every South-Eastern state.

    Read Also: Kinsmen disown Enugu ex-speaker over comments on South East Development Commission 

    This expansion builds on the success of the Owerri center in Imo State, which has been a pillar of IT education in the region for over 18 years.

    “From Owerri to Onitsha, and soon Ebonyi, our goal is to make IT training accessible to every young person in the South-East,” she added.

    In her remarks, Obioha reiterated her belief that the region’s youth could drive Nigeria’s digital transformation if given the right opportunities. 

    Through scholarships, IT workshops, and targeted community grants, she continues to champion initiatives that bridge the digital skills gap and foster innovation.

    With her visionary leadership, Nnedinma Obioha is positioning the South-East as a beacon of technological excellence, shaping the future of Nigeria’s ICT landscape.

  • Kanayo condemns excessive checkpoints in South East

    Kanayo condemns excessive checkpoints in South East

    Veteran actor Kanayo O. Kanayo has voiced discontent over the numerous police and military checkpoints on South East roads.

    In an Instagram video, Kanayo contrasted his smooth journey on the Lagos-Ibadan express road with the frequent checkpoints and harassment on South East roads.

    Kanayo questioned the motive behind this excessive militarisation and policing, asking if it stems from hatred or dislike for the people of the South East.

    He emphasised the South East is still part of Nigeria and deserves equal treatment, stating the negative impact on travelers and the economy.

    Read Also: Kanayo lauds Yul Edochie’s performing skill

    He said: “I left Felele Olorunsogo area of Ibadan this morning at about 7.15 and this is exactly 8.15 and I am in Lagos. I found out one thing. Over a distance of 80 kilometers, I didn’t see one checkpoint, one police checkpoint or an Army checkpoint, Have you ever plied the Onitsha/Enugu express road? Did you ever count the number of police checkpoints or military checkpoints on Enugu-Onitsha road?

    “Why is the South East militarized and policed that you cannot go for more than 200 meters without a police checkpoint. I need to ask this question because the delay in journeys and humiliation people go through needs to be pointed out. 

    “The number of police checkpoints, collection points? They humiliate our people so badly that most times people in the vehicle are asked to come down and hands up? Is this hatred? Is this dislike? This is not good. Is the South East still part of Nigeria?”

  • S/East to host region-wide business, investment summit

    S/East to host region-wide business, investment summit

    A South East Region-Wide Business and Investment Summit is to take place in Enugu, later this year. 

    The Executive Secretary of the Summit Organizing Committee, Dr. Ifedi Okwenna, said the Summit is primed to reestablish partnership and cooperation among the five sub-national governments of the South East, to stimulate growth in trade, commerce and investments in the zone. 

    The public/private sector structured initiative is pioneered by Continental Export Development Nigeria with state governments in the region.

    It is in collaboration with the Nigeria Diaspora Groups and clusters of investment Communities in Europe and America; some City Chambers of Commerce across the South East; and other bilateral and multi-lateral chambers.

    Read Also: Tinubu pays tribute to Olatunji Dare at 80

    It is planned to be an annual reunion meeting of government/policy leaders, investors and businesses from diverse sectors across the globe, to promote business and investments and stimulate growth in the economy of South East, Nigeria.

    Okwenna said the Summit  will utilize the enterprising, deeply knowledgeable and creative entrepreneurs of the South East extraction to evolve robust region-wide private public sector partnership schemes to build wealth, alleviate poverty, create employment in South East, enhance productivity and development of the Eastern hinterland. 

    He said the Summit will “ultimately attract increase in investment at home by South Easterners and increase remittances into South East States by those in the Diaspora”

    This year’s Edition of the Summit with Theme “Remaking the South East as Economic Powerhouse” according to Okwenna will focus on agriculture and manufacturing and will address the prevailing hunger and impending starvation in the South East and Nigeria in general. 

    He said that a USD200 million investment portfolio is targeted for South East in agriculture and manufacturing alone, over the next three years.

    The Summit which will take place between 11th and 13th December, 2024 is expected to bring together more than 1000 businessmen and women, investors and change makers from across the globe. 

    Dr Okwenna, stated that a number of investors from the Americas, the Caribbeans, Europe, the Middle  East and China have already indicated interests to participate at the event.

    Activities proposed at the Summit we gathered include, Premium Business Conference session, Panel Discussion, One-on-One Business Meetings, Signing of Memorandum of Understanding and the famed South East Business Award Gala.

  • ‘What South East Development Commission Bill will achieve’

    ‘What South East Development Commission Bill will achieve’

    By Stanley Ohajuruka

    The recent passage into law of an act to establish the South East Development Commission by both Chambers of the National Assembly is indeed a welcome development. Coming on the heels of consistent calls by well meaning Nigerians for a marshal plan to address the socio- economic and infrastructural deficit in the South East caused by the unfortunate Nigerian civil war of 1966, this can’t be less a lofty feat.

    While announcing the passage of the bill in the House Of Representatives, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu who sponsored the piece of legislation said “The House of Representatives successfully passed the bill for the establishment South East Development Commission SEDC after fifty three long years.”  This prompted some spontaneous exitement in the South East, signposting an era of fresh breath in Nigeria through political inclusion.

    No doubt, the region has, prior to now, been enmeshed in a myraid of post war challenges some of which find expression in infrastructural deficit, socio-economic problems and security challenges that require the special intervention of the federal government.

    The jubilation that greeted the passage of the bill speaks to the over all negative impact of the civil war and the need to chart a deliberate policy direction and strategy that will address the challenges and also restore the right of ‘Ndigbo’ of the South East and make them equal beneficiaries of the dividends of democracy in Nigeria.

    Read Also: South East Development Commission Bill: Unlocking latent fortunes, fostering inclusion

    For purposes of accentuation, this has been the wish of every Igbo man of the South East hence, their overwhelming joy and support to the bill. To say the least, the bill is a catalyst to achieving development in the South East.

    When eventually, the Commission will unlock the latent ingredients that will lead to economic emancipation, empowerment, integration, rehabilitation and reconstruction of the South East. But ultimately, it will foster peace and national cohesion.

    Expectedly also, the Commission will fully harness the industrial, agricultural, tourism, energy and power trading potentials in the South East for the benefit of the country st large.

    At this juncture, special gratitude and appreciation must be paid to our dynamic President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on whose watch this landmark feat has been achieved.

    His exceptional visionary leadership and the determination to work for a new Nigeria through his Renewed Hope is highly commendable. His desire to give every part of Nigeria a sense of belonging is legendary and worthy of commendation as there is no doubt that he will graciously assent to the bill when it gets to his table. The South East should therefore show and demonstrate their immense gratitude and appreciation to Mr President by giving total and unalloyed support to his administration.

    To the South East Legislators in the National Assembly ably led by the sponsor of the bill in the House of Representatives, our ebullient, amiable and resourceful Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, I say thank you for your exceptional representation and legislative sagacity. I also thank the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abass and members of the National Assembly for their understanding and support. Your believe in the full integration of the South East into Nigeria is well appreciated and will surely guarantee true peace and progress in our country.

    In conclusion, the establishment of the South East Development Commission will ultimately restore hope and trust in the system, stamping the belief in Igbo people and indeed, all Nigerians across all walks of life that a new Nigeria that gives everyone equal opportunities has been birthed under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    • Ohajuruka, who served in the All Progressive Congress (APC) Merger Committee in 2013, writes from Umuahia, Abia State.
  • Manufacturers laud peace project in South East

    Manufacturers laud peace project in South East

    The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has lauded the ‘Peace in South-East Project’ (PISE-P) launched in Abia State on Friday by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The newly launched PISE-P which aims to return peace, unity, reconciliation and development to the south-east region, is a programme, initiated by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon Benjamin Kalu.

    President Tinubu, while unveiling the project, had said, “the Federal Government is determined to utilise its available resources to establish peace in the South-East geopolitical zone of the country”.

    Tinubu, represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, described the zone as “an industrial hub, which plays a vital role in boosting the nation’s economic development”.

    In a press statement Sunday afternoon by Lady Ada Chukwudozie, Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, representing Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu zone of the South East, the association said the PISE-P initiative came at a time the economic fortune of the region was fast draining, owing to insecurity and other agencies of economic sabotage.

    Read Also: Why we increased 2024 budget, by Reps

    “To us, the Manufacturers, we cannot figure out the exact amount of our investments that have gone down the drain since the insecurity and agitations started few years ago. Some of our Members cannot access their factories while those few who can still operate have to battle with insecurity and other things that have caused economic sabotage in Igbo land.

    “We are indeed grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for accepting the use of non-kinetic measures in addressing the challenges in the South East, rather than the use of force by past government, which helped to aggravate the situation.

    “Our dear son, RT. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, the Deputy Speaker has also done well for birthing this great lofty idea, which has a far reaching goal of making South East the commercial hub of Nigeria, once again, as said by the President and other leaders who attended the event on Friday.

    “We want other Leaders in South East, be it Governors, Ministers, Senators, Honourable Members, Traditional Rulers, Clergymen and even youth and women leaders to join this campaigns. Let all the youths and women continue to sensitise the generality of the Nd’Igbo to see that we have lasting peace. The President-General of Ohaneze Nd’Igbo Worldwide, Chief Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu is also doing well in that regard.

    “Let us embrace peace for development, progress and industrialisation. Let us join him and other stakeholders to woo foreign investors and as usual, the Manufacturers would be ready to provide guide and support in ensuring the South East gets her place in the global economy”, she said.

    Lady Chukwudozie, however, called on President Tinubu to have deeper conversations with Deputy Speaker Kalu, Governors, Ohaneze Nd’Igbo and other critical stakeholders from the Sout East, so as to get more insight into what should be done to finally win the peace of the region.