The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has officially taken off, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria's regional development landscape. The inauguration ceremony, which took place recently, sets the stage for integrated and transformative growth across the South East region.
In his inaugural speech, Mark Okoye II, the Managing Director/CEO of SEDC, expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the trust and confidence reposed in him and his colleague to lead the historic institution. He also thanked the National Assembly, the Hon. Minister of Regional Development, and other stakeholders for their support.
Continuing, Mark Okoye II said, that the commission will not pay lip service to development in the South East as SEDC will prioritize action over rhetoric and results over promises.
"Our tenure will be built on transparency, accountability, and public participation. Every project will align with a clear roadmap and deliver measurable impact. In the coming months, we will embark on several projects, programs, and initiatives designed to accelerate the development of our region."
The however stated that it's website will be launched soon, and it will be an interactive platform for feedbacks and engagements from the people of the region.
The Director General emphasized that will aling with the Federal Government, State Governments, and with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President to prioritize the key areas of Security & Investment Climate, which would trengthen peace and stability in the region to attract investment. with a master plan for Infrastructure development, aimed at developing new masterplans to guide the execution of major infrastructure projects in the South East.
He further stated that agriculture & industrialization will be given a face lift to enhance value chains, boost food security, and revamp existing industrial clusters which will in turn support current industrial park projects being developed by State Governments in the region.
On technology & innovation, the director general stressed that empowering our youths with digital skills and fostering tech-driven entrepreneurship wi paly a major role in it's drive to make the youths feel at home to the human capital development strides it aims to achieve through Supporting tertiary education and healthcare institutions; & vocational training.
The SEDC aims to oversee the reconstruction and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure damaged by the Nigeria Civil War and tackle broader developmental challenges facing the region. With a clear target to drive the South East towards a $200 billion regional economy by 2035, the commission is poised to contribute significantly to President Tinubu's $1 trillion GDP target.
The SEDC has pledged to prioritize action over rhetoric, results over promises, and transparency, accountability, and public participation. With the support of stakeholders, the commission is set to transform the South East into an economic powerhouse.