Senate approves management team, board members for SEDC

The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has confirmed the appointments of the executive management and board members of the South East Development Commission (SEDC). The confirmation followed a thorough screening process conducted by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Regional Development Commissions, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, representing Abia North Senatorial District, alongside other distinguished members of the committee.

The SEDC is mandated to address the socio-economic challenges facing the South East region by facilitating rapid and sustainable development. The Commission aims to transform the region into an economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative, and politically peaceful zone through strategic policies, projects, and partnerships.

The confirmed executive management and board members of the SEDC are Dr. Emeka Worgu (Chairman), Hon. Mark C. Okoye (MD/CEO), Sylvester Okonkwo (Executive Director, Corporate Services), Rt. Hon. Stanley Ohajuruka (Executive Director, Finance), Hon. Toby Okechukwu (Executive Director, Projects), Sen. Anthony Agbo (Executive Director, Commercial and Industrial Development), Dr. Clifford Ogbede (Executive Director, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Rural Development), Ugochukwu H. Agballah (Member), Hon. Okey Ezenwa (Member), Hyacinth Ikpor (Member), Chidi Echeazu (Member), Ifeanyi Agwu( Member), Nasiru Usman (Member), Hamma Adama Ali Kumo (Member), Edward David Onoja (Member), Orure Kufre Inima (Member), Daniel Akwari (Member), and Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma (Member).

During the screening process, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu emphasized the critical role of the SEDC in addressing the developmental challenges of the South East region. He urged the nominees to uphold the trust placed in them by President Bola Tinubu, South Easterners, as well as the Nigerian people.

“You are the face of this Commission. Do not engage in any act that could tarnish the President’s or the Commission’s image. The Senate will not hesitate to recommend your removal if you fail to deliver,” Kalu stated.

The confirmation of the SEDC Executive Management and Board members by the Senate marks a significant milestone in addressing the developmental needs of the South East region. The Commission is expected to commence operations upon its inauguration. Its primary focus will no doubt be on sustainable infrastructure development, economic empowerment, and regional collaboration to create a stable and prosperous South East.