Coalition Backs South-South Commission On Funding Bill

The Amalgamated Coalition of Activists in Nigeria and Diaspora (ACAND) has expressed delight with the House of Representatives for passing for second reading, a bill seeking to strengthen the funding framework of the South South Development Commission (SSDC).

The group also praised the sponsor of the bill, Hon. Julius Pondi, representing Burutu Federal Constituency of Delta State in the House, describing the proposed legislation as a bold and timely intervention by the lawmaker that could accelerate development across the South-South region.

In a statement by its president, Lucky Efe, ACAND said the move to provide additional funding for the SSDC represented a historic moment in the quest to address longstanding infrastructural deficits and socio-economic challenges confronting communities in the region.

The group stated that improved funding would enhance the commission’s capacity to execute critical development projects in areas such as roads, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, environmental remediation and economic growth.

“Today marks a significant milestone in the development trajectory of the South-South region. The passage of this bill for second reading demonstrates the commitment of the House of Representatives to ensuring that the SSDC is adequately equipped to fulfil its mandate,” the statement said.

The coalition particularly commended Hon. Pondi for championing the amendment, noting that the lawmaker had shown foresight and dedication to the welfare and development of the people of the South-South.

It said the region, despite its immense contribution to the nation’s economy, continues to grapple with infrastructure gaps and developmental challenges that require sustained intervention and adequate funding.

“By seeking to expand the funding base of the commission, Hon. Julius Pondi has taken a strategic step towards ensuring that the SSDC can deliver impactful projects that will improve the lives of millions of people across the South South,” the group added.

ACAND urged lawmakers in both chambers of the National Assembly to support the bill through subsequent legislative stages to facilitate its eventual passage and implementation for the development of the region.

The coalition expressed optimism that the proposed amendment would provide the commission with the financial strength needed to accelerate development, create jobs, improve public infrastructure and promote sustainable growth across the region.

It further called on stakeholders, traditional institutions, civil society organisations and community leaders to rally support for the initiative, describing it as a critical investment in the future of the South South.

The House of Representatives had on Wednesday passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the South South Development Commission Act, 2025, to provide additional funding for the commission.

Pondi had in a lead debate on the bill said the amendment was aimed at strengthening the commission’s financial base to enable it undertake more developmental projects and effectively tackle infrastructural challenges in the South South region.