The House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Act, 2025, in a move aimed at strengthening the commission’s funding base and accelerating development across the South-South region.

The proposed amendment, sponsored by Hon. Julius Pondi, who represents Burutu Federal Constituency of Delta State, is designed to enhance the financial capacity of the commission to undertake critical infrastructure and socio-economic projects.

Leading the debate during plenary, Pondi said the amendment became necessary to provide the SSDC with additional resources to effectively deliver on its mandate of promoting sustainable development and addressing long-standing developmental challenges in the region.

He noted that increased funding would enable the commission to execute projects in key sectors such as road infrastructure, healthcare, education, environmental remediation, youth empowerment, and economic development.

Lawmakers who supported the bill argued that despite the South-South’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s economy, the region continues to face serious infrastructural deficits and socio-economic challenges that require sustained intervention.

According to them, strengthening the commission’s funding framework would help fast-track development initiatives and improve the quality of life of residents across the region.

The passage of the bill for second reading marks a major legislative step toward equipping the SSDC with the resources needed to drive inclusive growth and tackle pressing development concerns.

Meanwhile, the Amalgamated Coalition of Activists in Nigeria and Diaspora (ACAND) has welcomed the development, describing it as a bold initiative capable of transforming communities in the South-South.

In a statement, ACAND President Lucky Efe commended the House of Representatives and the sponsor of the bill for advancing a measure that could significantly strengthen the commission’s ability to deliver impactful projects and promote sustainable growth.

The bill has been referred to the relevant House committee for further legislative consideration.