Nigeria reached a new milestone in regional development as the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, inaugurated the boards of three newly established commissions: the North Central Development Commission (NCDC), the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), and the South-West Development Commission (SWDC).
The Rotunda Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was the stage for this historic joint swearing-in, which brought together top government officials, legislators, and stakeholders with one clear message: collaboration for equitable growth across all regions.
Taking the oath as Chairman of the SSDC was Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives (1999–2003) and a seasoned politician from Rivers State. Nwuche played a key role in the National Assembly that passed the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act, making his return to public service symbolic and significant. In his speech, he promised to partner and work closely with all stakeholders and other commissions including the NDDC for the development of the South-South and to enhance the welfare of Nigerians. His appointment, alongside the swearing-in of Ms. Usoro Offiong Akpabio as Managing Director, bringing expertise in community empowerment, and a diverse board with representatives from all South-South states, underscores a concerted effort to translate policy into tangible progress across the regions.
The ceremony also featured Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, who passionately advocated for greater female representation in governance, urging the new commissions to ensure inclusivity in their programs and leadership.
Delivering a strong directive, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Regional Development, instructed all the newly inaugurated commissions to work hand in hand with the NDDC, stressing that synergy and transparency will be the backbone of success.
The Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, welcomed the new commissions, affirming that the NDDC is ready to collaborate with them. He urged the boards to learn from the mistakes of the past in order to build a stronger, more accountable future.
Other dignitaries present included Representative of the Speaker, House of Representatives, Honourable Tajudeen Abbas, Hon.Felix Uche Nwaeke from Rivers State, Dr. Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Minister of State for Regional Development, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, Dr. Mary Ada Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Regional Development, and Senator Simon Bako Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State representing Plateau South. Also in attendance were Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong Jr., Chairman of the Senate Committee on the NDDC, and Senator Benson Konbowei, Chairman of the Senate Committee on the South-South Development Commission. The Minister of Power, Adedayo (Bayo) Adelabu, further underscored the federal government’s dedication to infrastructural renewal, energy access, and economic transformation.
The inauguration was more than ceremonial. For the South-South, it represents a chance to tackle infrastructure development and youth unemployment. For the North Central, a path to agricultural and security interventions. For the South-West, an opportunity to accelerate industrial and economic hubs.
Together, with the backing of the federal government, the NDDC, and a renewed sense of accountability, these commissions are tasked with delivering tangible improvements in the lives of millions of Nigerians.