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From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
Following the inauguration of the Governing Board of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC) by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday in Abuja, the newly appointed Executive Director in charge of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Rural Development, Dr. Clifford Ogbede has expressed optimism about the commission’s potential to transform the region.
Speaking at a ceremony to celebrate his appointment, Ogbede described the establishment of the SEDC as a historic milestone, marking the first time the Southeast has received significant federal attention since the Nigerian civil war over five decades ago.
He said: “This is the first time the Southeast is having federal attention. We have been clamoring for reintegration since after the war, about 54 years ago, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made this a reality. It’s like a celebration of a century for the Igbo people.”
According to him, the SEDC will address critical challenges facing the region, including ecological degradation, inadequate infrastructure, and underdeveloped human capital.
He noted that prior to the civil war, the South East was among the fastest-growing economies globally, but development was stalled for over half a century.
“This is an opportunity for us to revive that growth trajectory,” he added.
On his plans for agricultural development in the South East, the ED noted that the commission has a clear mandate and will soon unveil a comprehensive roadmap.
“We have a mandate, and we will develop a strategic plan to harness the region’s agricultural potential. Today is about celebrating this achievement, but very soon, Nigerians will see our plans in action,” he said.
Highlighting the region’s natural entrepreneurial spirit, he expressed confidence that federal intervention through the SEDC would stimulate prosperity.
Furthermore, Ogbede acknowledged the peculiar challenges facing the Southeast, including environmental issues, security concerns, and high unemployment rates.
However, he expressed optimism about overcoming these hurdles through strategic federal support.
Ogbede also paid tribute to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, whose legislative efforts were instrumental in establishing the SEDC.
“We cannot thank the Deputy Speaker enough. He dusted off the bill, ensured it passed, and worked tirelessly to secure the president’s assent. Without his dedication, this would not have been possible,” he said.
