A group, National Advocate for Good Governance has commended the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for confirming the appointments of the executive management and board members of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).
The group specifically hailed the appointment of Chief Sylvester Okonkwo as Executive Director, Corporate Services of the Commission.
The confirmation followed a thorough screening process conducted by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Regional Development Commissions, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, alongside other distinguished members of the committee.
In a brief statement the National Coordinator of the group Dansiraj Muhammed, said Chief Okonkwo’s groundswell of experience will contribute massively to the development of the Commission.
He commended the Senate for confirming his nomination, while assuring that Okonkwo will discharge his duties effectively in the overall interest of the South East region.
Other confirmed executive management and board members includes:
“Dr. Emeka Worgu – Chairman,
Hon. Mark C. Okoye – Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer,
Chief Sylvester Okonkwo – Executive Director, Corporate Services,
Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka – Executive Director, Finance,
Hon. Toby Okechukwu – Executive Director, Projects,
Sen. Anthony Agbo – Executive Director, Commercial and Industrial Development,
Dr. Clifford Ogbede – Executive Director, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Rural Development,
Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah – Member,
Hon. Okey Ezenwa – Member, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor – Member,
Chidi Echeazu – Member, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Ph.D. – Member,
Nasiru Usman – Member, Hamma Adama Ali Kumo – Member,
Edward David Onoja – Member, Orure Kufre Inima – Member,
Daniel Akwari – Member
Chief (Mrs.) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma – Member.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, during the screening process emphasized the critical role of the SEDC in addressing the developmental challenges of the South East region.
He urged the nominees to uphold the trust placed in them by the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, South Easterners, as well as the Nigerian people.
“You are the face of this Commission. Do not engage in any act that could tarnish the President’s or the Commission’s image. The Senate will not hesitate to recommend your removal if you fail to deliver,” Senator Kalu stated.
The SEDC is mandated to address the socio-economic challenges facing the South East region by facilitating rapid and sustainable development. The Commission aims to transform the region into an economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative, and politically peaceful zone through strategic policies, projects, and partnerships.
The confirmation of the SEDC Executive Management and Board members by the Senate marks a significant milestone in addressing the developmental needs of the South East region. The Commission is expected to commence operations upon its inauguration. Its primary focus will no doubt be on sustainable infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and regional collaboration to create a stable and prosperous South East.
