The Chairman of the Board of the South South Development Commission (SSDC) , Prince Chibudom Nwuche has expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Gidswill Akpabio, and the National Assembly for their efforts in bringing the Commission into existence despite the hurdles.
Prince Nwuche made the remark on Thursday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by members of the newly inaugurated SSDC board and management team to the National Assembly. He pledged that under his leadership, the SSDC would deliver on its mandate.
“We will uphold the trust placed in us and ensure our projects reflect the true essence of governance. We will work closely with the Senate, listen to stakeholders, and avoid the pitfalls that hindered previous development efforts,” Nwuche assured.
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, urged the leadership of the South South Development Commission (SSDC) to embark on transformative projects that will uplift the lives of people in the region and reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Senator Akpabio reminded them that the Commission carries a huge responsibility to accelerate development across the South South and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy.
“The responsibility now lies with you to bring tangible value to the South South through this Commission. This assignment is not a reward but a call to service. You must think creatively to strengthen the region’s economy and complement the Renewed Hope vision of President Tinubu, whose foresight led to the creation of this Commission.”
Akpabio commended President Tinubu for establishing the SSDC, describing it as a gesture of appreciation to a region that has significantly sustained Nigeria’s economy.
“The Niger Delta has always been a pillar of Nigeria’s economy. By giving us this Commission, the President has reaffirmed that Nigeria cares about the South South and recognizes our contribution to national development,” he added.
The Senate President also expressed gratitude to lawmakers in both chambers of the National Assembly for supporting the passage of the SSDC Bill, despite initial reservations about the region already having the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He clarified that the SSDC’s mandate extends beyond oil-producing communities, encompassing all parts of the South South.
Akpabio further assured the Commission of the legislature’s commitment to ensuring adequate funding for regional development agencies.
“We will continue to back you as you commence operations and deliver landmark projects that will impact our people. You can rely on the full support of the National Assembly to help you succeed,” he stated.
The Commission’s pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, lauded Senator Akpabio’s leadership and the vision of the National Assembly in establishing the SSDC. She promised that the agency would champion a regional economic renaissance across the six states of the South South.
According to her, the Commission’s focus will span human capital development and infrastructure renewal, in partnership with state governments and other development institutions.
“Our mission is to unlock the immense potentials of the South South and transform it into a model of sustainable development. We aim to be an example for other interventionist agencies by empowering talents and driving growth across all sectors,” she stated confidently.
Executive Directors of the commission present at the visit include Chief Hon. Marcus Nle Ejii, projects and works, Engr. Preye Stephen Aganagba, Social and human development and others.