The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in the discharge of its statutory responsibilities in the region.
The Commission gave the assurance during an oversight appearance before the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by SEDC Executive Director, Finance, Mr. Stanley Ohajuruka, the engagement formed part of the National Assembly’s constitutional oversight responsibilities and provided an opportunity for the Commission to present a comprehensive account of its activities, financial performance, institutional development, partnerships, and programme implementation since the inauguration of its Board in February 2025.
The delegation, during the interactive session, however, noted that out of the total sum of N140 billion appropriated to the Commission in the 2026 budget, less than 10 per cent has been released to date across all budget lines.
The Commission therefore reiterated the importance of accelerated releases to enable the execution of critical infrastructure, economic development, agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, and regional security initiatives envisioned under its mandate.
The Commission further noted that while the Federal Government and National Assembly have demonstrated commitment to the South East through the establishment and funding of the Commission, the pace of implementation remains closely tied to the timely release of appropriated funds.
During the engagement, the Commission also provided detailed information on its organisational structure and staffing, budget performance, procurement processes, contracts awarded, institutional partnerships, and ongoing programmes across the region.
The Commission also presented updates on its engagements with state governments, federal institutions, development finance partners, and other stakeholders working to advance the development priorities of the South East.
As part of its review, the Committee requested additional documentation relating to specific aspects of the Commission’s operations and programme implementation.
The Commission welcomed the request and sought a short period within which to collate and transmit the materials in the level of detail required by the Committee.
Following the discussions, the Committee adjourned proceedings to a later date pending receipt of the requested submissions, which the Commission is expected to provide on or before 23 June 2026.
