President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on the board and management of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to focus on implementing developmental projects that will enhance the living standards of people in the region.
Akpabio made the call when members of the newly inaugurated board paid him a courtesy visit in Abuja, according to a statement issued on Friday by his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Mr Anietie Ekong.
He urged the commission to align its programmes with President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda and to view their appointments as a call to service rather than an opportunity for personal gain.
“The ball is in your court to add value to the South-South zone through this development commission. You have a lot of responsibilities; it is not a bonanza but a call to service,” he said.
Akpabio commended President Tinubu for establishing the commission, noting that it would contribute to the economic advancement of the South-South beyond oil production.
He also appreciated the National Assembly for passing the SSDC bill despite initial reservations due to the existence of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
According to him, “the mandate of the SSDC extends beyond the oil-producing areas to every part of the South-South region.”
The Senate President assured the commission of the legislature’s support in ensuring adequate funding for development projects across the country’s six geo-political zones.
“We shall continue to support you to execute big projects and ensure you are adequately funded. You can count on me, my office, and my colleagues,” he added.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the SSDC Board, Mr Chibudom Nwuche, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Akpabio, and the National Assembly for their roles in establishing the commission.
He pledged that the board would remain committed to its mandate, work closely with stakeholders, and avoid past mistakes to ensure the people feel the impact of good governance.
Similarly, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SSDC, Ms Usoro Akpabio, praised the visionary leadership that led to the creation of the commission.
She said the agency would pursue regional economic growth, human capital development, and infrastructural renewal across the six states of the South-South.
“We will align with sister development agencies, unlock the region’s potentials, and drive sustainable development that brings out the talents of our people,” she stated.
(NAN)