The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi, has been commended for spearheading legislative efforts to strengthen funding for the Commission through an amendment to its Establishment Act.

The commendation came from the New Agenda for South-South Development (NASSD), which described Pondi as a leading advocate for the region’s development, citing his sponsorship of the South-South Development Commission (Establishment) Act Amendment Bill, 2025.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Kufre Thomas, the group said the proposed amendment would enhance the Commission’s financial capacity to address critical infrastructure deficits, environmental degradation and socio-economic challenges across the six South-South states.

The bill, HB 2674, seeks to amend the 2025 Act by introducing additional funding sources for the Commission, which serves Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers states.

Thomas said Pondi had demonstrated commitment to the aspirations of the people by championing legislation aimed at equipping the Commission to deliver on its mandate.

“We are pleased to commend Hon. Julius Gbabojor Pondi for championing this important amendment. His efforts show a deep understanding of the developmental needs of the South-South and a commitment to ensuring that the Commission has the resources required to make a meaningful impact,” he said.

According to him, the proposed funding boost would enable the SSDC to execute more projects in key sectors such as roads, healthcare, education, agriculture, environmental remediation and youth empowerment.

He also praised the lawmaker for ensuring that stakeholders were given the opportunity to contribute during the public hearing on the amendment bill.
“The Chairman ensured that stakeholders made meaningful contributions during the hearing. That transparent and inclusive approach will strengthen the quality of the legislation and ensure it reflects the aspirations of the people of the South-South,” Thomas added.

The group further noted that Pondi has consistently advocated for policies that promote the development of the Niger Delta, particularly in the areas of environmental protection, infrastructure development and resource management.

It described his leadership of the House Committee on the South-South Development Commission as a continuation of his longstanding commitment to the welfare of oil-producing communities.

According to NASSD, Pondi has built a reputation as a legislator who works across party lines to advance initiatives that benefit the region and strengthen institutions established to drive development.

The organisation pledged its full support for the amendment bill and urged members of both chambers of the National Assembly to expedite its consideration and passage.

It argued that while the establishment of the South-South Development Commission was a major milestone, the proposed amendment would provide the financial framework needed for the Commission to effectively discharge its responsibilities.

“The South-South remains the economic backbone of Nigeria. Strengthening the funding base of the Commission is essential to addressing decades of infrastructure deficits, environmental challenges and underdevelopment in the region,” the statement said.

NASSD also called on senators and members of the House of Representatives from the South-South geopolitical zone to support the amendment, expressing confidence that the legislation would significantly improve the Commission’s ability to deliver sustainable development projects across the region.

The group pledged to continue engaging relevant stakeholders and monitoring the progress of the bill to ensure its eventual passage and effective implementation.