Ex-NERC Boss Stresses Imperatives Of South East Development Commission

A former executive secretary of the Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and a development scholar, Dr Sam Amadi, has called for the establishment of the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

This was contained in his paper titled: “Roadmap to Accelerated Economic Transformation of the South East” delivered at the South East Summit on Security and Economy, SESSE 2023.

Amadi emphasised the urgent need for coordinated efforts to bring about intentional development in the South East region.

He stressed the importance of creating structures with the power of collectivity and a clear mandate for action to achieve tangible results.

He pointed out that the time for such actions is now, and the region should draw inspiration from its historical successes.

Amadi cited the rapid transformation of the Eastern Region of Nigeria during the first republic, led by the late Dr Michael Okpara, as a remarkable achievement that the South East could replicate.

He highlighted the need for leadership commitment and a strong drive for action rather than dwelling on limitations or past achievements.

He stated, “We cannot lament for too long about what we have done before, demonstrated to world acclaim, and can still do even better, with an increasingly digitalized human capital and amazing zestful youth assets to exploit.”

Amadi further emphasised the importance of a coordinating body like the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation and a strong political will, which made inclusion a norm and citizen mobilisation a charm during the region’s rapid growth.

He called for the proposed SEDC to function efficiently without being hindered by personal interests or excessive political interference.

Drawing on historical examples, Amadi discussed the shift from agriculture to industries as a strategic move for the region’s economic recovery and growth, along with the importance of managing the private sector effectively.

Amadi stressed the need for political will, stating that “Political will is not a matter of rhetoric. It is determination backed up by resilience and willingness to sacrifice.”