By Henry Umoru, Abuja
Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, has called on the newly inaugurated board and management of the South South Development Commission (SSDC) to spearhead transformative projects that will substantially improve living standards throughout the South South geopolitical zone.
In a recent courtesy visit held in Abuja with the Commission’s executives, Akpabio underscored the vital responsibility of the SSDC in driving inclusive economic development. He urged the Commission to align its programs with President Bola Tinubu‘s Renewed Hope Agenda, ensuring that the region’s growth contributes meaningfully to national progress.
According to a statement from Akpabio’s Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, the Senate President views the establishment of the SSDC as a landmark development for the South South, signaling a new chapter in the area’s socio-economic advancement.
Addressing the SSDC leadership, Akpabio remarked, “The onus is now on you to deliver tangible improvements that will uplift the South South communities.”
He emphasized, “This role transcends personal ambitions; it is a profound commitment to fostering economic prosperity and supporting the President’s vision through dedicated public service.”
Akpabio commended President Tinubu for instituting the SSDC, describing it as a well-deserved recognition of the South South’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s economy, especially given its rich oil and gas resources.
He also expressed appreciation to the National Assembly for passing the SSDC Bill into law, despite initial concerns about potential jurisdictional conflicts with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He clarified that unlike the NDDC, which primarily focuses on oil-producing communities, the SSDC’s mandate covers the entire South South region.
“We are fully committed to backing your initiatives to launch and implement impactful projects that will benefit the region. You can count on my office and fellow legislators to secure the necessary funding,” Akpabio assured the Commission.
Prince Chibudom Nwuche, Chairman of the SSDC Board, expressed his sincere gratitude to President Tinubu, the Senate President, and the National Assembly for their crucial support in bringing the Commission to fruition.
“Under my stewardship, we will earnestly execute the Commission’s mandate. We plan to work closely with the Senate and other stakeholders, learn from previous experiences, and ensure our governance delivers positive outcomes for the people,” Nwuche affirmed.
Ms. Usoro Akpabio, Managing Director and CEO of the SSDC, praised Senator Akpabio’s visionary leadership and pledged the Commission’s commitment to prioritizing human capital development alongside infrastructure renewal.
“Our goal is to unlock the vast potential and untapped resources within the South South population,” she stated. “The SSDC aspires to become a model for other development agencies in Nigeria by promoting sustainable, community-driven growth and regional progress.”
This engagement marked the first formal meeting between the SSDC leadership and the Senate President since the Commission’s establishment.