The Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Mr. Tajudeen Abbas, has called for speedy development of the south eastern region.
He was speaking when he officially inaugurated the House of Representatives Committee South East Development Commission, in Abuja.
He said that the establishment of the commission marks a crucial step toward addressing the developmental challenges facing the Southeast region.
Mr. Abbas, who was represented by Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, described the inaugural meeting of the committee as a renewed commitment to ensuring that the region receives the much-needed investment and attention for its growth and prosperity.
“The inauguration of this committee is not just a formality,” Abbas stated.
“It is the beginning of a renewed effort to unlock the full potential of the Southeast, a region known for its resilience, industry, and entrepreneurial spirit,” Abbas said.
He emphasised that the establishment of the South East Development Commission was in response to longstanding issues such as gully erosion, infrastructural decay, economic downturn, youth unemployment, and insecurity.
Hub For Innovation
The Commission, he explained, would serve as a vehicle for recovery, modernization, and economic revitalization to position the Southeast as a hub for innovation, commerce, and industrial growth.
“The role of this committee is to provide legislative oversight, monitor the implementation of policies, and ensure that the commission fulfills its mandate with efficiency, transparency, and accountability,” Abbas stated.
The Speaker acknowledged the Southeast’s historical significance as a center of trade, education, and enterprise, which has greatly contributed to the national economy.
Region’s Struggles
However, he lamented the region’s struggles with poor infrastructure, inadequate federal presence, and limited access to development opportunities.
He urged the committee to focus on infrastructure development, industrial support, human capital growth, and fostering peace and security.
“This is not just about policy monitoring; it is also about improving the lives of millions of people who look to us for leadership and solutions,” he said.
Speaker Abbas also charged the committee members to approach their work with diligence, patriotism, and a deep commitment to the people of the Southeast and Nigeria as a whole.
He underscored the high expectations placed on them as the first committee to oversee the Commission, reminding them that their performance would shape the Commission’s legacy.
“The foundation you lay, and the impact you make, will be a significant stamp in the annals of the history of the Commission..
“Development is not about politics. It is about people. We must ensure that every policy, every project, and every decision taken by the commission serves the greater good of the region and contributes to national development,” he said.
Support And Collaboration
The Speaker assured the committee of full support from his office and the House of Representatives, pledging collaboration to ensure the Commission achieves its objectives and serves as a model for regional development.
“This is our opportunity to turn aspirations into realities, to uplift communities, and to build a Southeast that is prosperous, stable, and thriving for generations to come.
“May your efforts bring about meaningful progress, and may this initiative serve as a lasting legacy in our shared vision for a stronger and more united Nigeria,” he said.
Earlier, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mr. Chris Nkwonta, emphasised that the security situation in the South East remains a major concern and must be addressed for any meaningful progress to take place.
He stressed that the continued detention of Kanu has fueled tensions, deepened grievances, and hindered the region’s stability.
“Given the region’s security concerns, the Committee and other well-meaning Nigerians appeal to the President to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu as a step towards lasting peace and development in the South East,” Nkwonta stated.
He noted that the South East Development Commission was created to bridge developmental gaps in the region and that sustainable development could only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and inclusivity.
Nkwonta linked the establishment of the South East Development Commission to the broader national effort of Reintegration, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation (RRR) initiated by the Nigerian government to heal the wounds of the past, particularly in the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War.
He commended President Tinubu for assenting to the bill establishing the Commission but stressed that genuine reconciliation must also address the lingering issues of marginalisation and political grievances in the South East.
Confidence Okwuchi
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