Tinubu lauded as Shettima charges SWDC to deliver jobs, roads, innovation

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Wednesday urged the South West Development Commission (SWDC) to turn policy into palpable progress, praising President Bola Tinubu for creating regional development bodies that, he said, can unlock each region’s unique strengths for Nigeria’s prosperity.

Speaking during a visit by the SWDC board and management to the Presidential Villa, Shettima said the new commissions reflect presidential foresight and must be matched by “innovation, effective collaboration and integrity” to deliver results for citizens, according to a statement issued by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.

“President Tinubu deserves praise for his foresight and directional leadership in establishing these commissions,” the Vice President said. “The Renewed Hope Agenda is about translating policy into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians.”

Shettima recalled the South West’s legacy in enterprise and education, and set clear performance expectations for the commission. “Your commission must be known for delivery, not bureaucracy. Nigerians will measure your success by the quality of roads built, jobs created, businesses supported, and communities transformed,” he said.

He also stressed cooperation with sub national governments and other bodies. “Development succeeds when institutions collaborate, not compete. I urge you to work closely with the state governments across the South West, traditional institutions, the private sector and development partners,” the Vice President added.

“Peer review is very important. Reach out to the other regional development commissions and share ideas that will transform the fortunes of our various regions.”

On project selection, Shettima demanded transparency and bankability. “Every project must be transparent, measurable and capable of attracting private investment. Our job as government is to create the enabling environment for investments to thrive.”

He reiterated the Federal Government’s support for any genuine effort that advances regional development and national prosperity, urging the commission to lead with integrity, innovation and measurable results.

SWDC board chairman, Olubunmi Adetunmbi, praised the Tinubu administration for economic and structural reforms that birthed the regional commissions and applauded Shettima’s stewardship of the National Economic Council.

He briefed the Vice President on the commission’s roadmap for infrastructure and human capital development, and outlined plans for a robust baseline study to guide interventions.

“We are committed to working harmoniously with sub national governments through NEC to avoid duplication and to improve delivery of democracy dividends to the people,” Adetunmbi said.

Also at the meeting were the commission’s managing director, Dr Charles Akinola, executive directors and state representatives on the SWDC board.