Forgotten Dairies
A New Beginning for the South-South: The SSDC and a Vision for Change -By Ebikila Kwokwo
With such a capable team assembled, the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) stands poised to transform its promise into tangible progress. The immediate task is for leadership to take bold action, establishing the operational backbone needed to fully enact the SSDC’s legislative mandate.
In the context of Nigeria’s growth, the South-South region has consistently been a mix of promise and challenges. This area is crucial to the nation’s economy, yet its communities face serious issues related to underdevelopment. However, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assent to the bill establishing the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), the situation is set to improve.
This move is more than just a new policy; it symbolizes hope and a renewed dedication to addressing not just past inequalities but sustainable development for the region.
Chibudum Nwuche
It is pertinent to take a moment and acknowledge President Tinubu’s impressive leadership here. By approving the establishment of the South-South Development Commission and appointing a governing board and management team studded with experience, talent, and integrity, he has taken a significant step towards unlocking the potential of the geo-political zone.
A Unique Mission and Vision
Like other regional development agencies with their areas of focus, the SSDC has a clear and forward-looking purpose. Its mission is about building a diverse economy that can thrive beyond oil. The SSDC aims to actively expand access to agriculture, tourism, human capacity development, and promote new sectors like the Blue Economy. This strategic approach is crucial for laying a new economic foundation for the South-South region, whilst ensuring widespread and sustainable prosperity across the region.
Preye Aganaba
A Strong Leadership Team
The effectiveness of any organization greatly relies on its leadership, and President Tinubu has made excellent choices in this regard. The SSDC is led by a management team that brings unique experiences relevant to understanding the challenges, recognizing the opportunities in the region, and implementing the same.
At the helm, as Chairman of the Governing Board, is Hon. Prince Chibudom Nwuche, who previously served as the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives. He has a long history of advocating for the development of the Niger Delta and played a key role in passing the NDDC Bill which is an important legislation and the initiation of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Local Content Bill. Chibudom’s thorough understanding of national laws and expertise in maritime law, combined with experience in the private sector, empowers the board with strategic insight and political suave necessary to navigate complex challenges and establish meaningful partnerships that will enhance the impact of the Commission.
Usoro Akpabio
Working alongside him is Ms. Usoro Offiong Akpabio, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, who is a political scientist and analyst with a deep understanding of the region’s economic and social issues.
She has a strong background in policy and grassroots development. Her commitment to community development is also evident through her philanthropic efforts over the years. She’s dedicated to enhancing human capital development, ensuring transparency, and focusing on community-centered initiatives that have a real impact on people’s lives.
The SSDC also benefits from the expertise of Engr. Preye Aganaba, who serves as the Executive Director for Social and Human Capital Development. As an entrepreneur, he applies a results-oriented mindset to address capacity development for the youth and women of the region. His focus on skills acquisition, training, digital literacy, and encouraging entrepreneurship will help empower young people to take practical steps that will change their life trajectory for the better.
In charge of Corporate Services is Dr. Timi Alari Ayibatonye. With experience as a university lecturer and previous roles with the Delta State Government, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the SSDC. His efforts will ensure that the commission has a well-trained and capable workforce that mirrors the efficiency and effectiveness the agency is expected to project.
The team is further enriched by other accomplished appointees, such as Hon. Marcus Nie Eji, serving as the Executive Director for Projects; Hon. Joseph Ugheoke, overseeing Commercial and Environmental Development, and Amb. Sony Abang is the Executive Director of Finance. This perfect blend of law, engineering, business, and diplomacy is a tremendous advantage for driving progress in the region.
Turning Promise into Reality
With such a capable team assembled, the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) stands poised to transform its promise into tangible progress. The immediate task is for leadership to take bold action, establishing the operational backbone needed to fully enact the SSDC’s legislative mandate.
Key priorities for this new chapter should include:
- Establishing a Physical Presence:Securing an appropriate Corporate Headquarters in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State, and opening operational branches across all six member states.
- Strategic, Coordinated Planning:By building upon the foundational work of the BRACED Commission and individual state blueprints, the organization can pinpoint critical needs and direct its efforts where they are most required.
- Launching an Infrastructure Renaissance:Championing a bold vision for regional connectivity through vital projects such as interstate expressways, deep-sea ports, and other transformative interventions.
- Broadening Economic Prosperity:Cultivating growth beyond hydrocarbons by establishing agro-processing zones, industrial parks, and tourism corridors to generate new revenue streams.
- Nurturing local Talent:Making strategic investments in our people through robust vocational and technology-focused education, that guarantees a workforce equipped for the modern economic landscape.
By moving decisively on these fronts, the SSDC can truly unlock the region’s vast potential and deliver a future of shared prosperity for its people.
Finally, governments of the six (6) member states, community leaders, citizens, and other stakeholders must rally behind the commission. By fostering a sense of ownership and collaboration, the SSDC can create a sustainable model for development that benefits everyone in the region.
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