Esther Nworie
On Tuesday, Francis Nwifuru, the Governor of Ebonyi State, urged the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to focus on projects that will drive rapid development in the region. This remark came during a meeting with members of the Commission in his office in Abakaliki, the state capital.
Nwifuru emphasized that the establishment of the Commission by the Federal Government fulfilled a long-held aspiration of the region’s leaders and residents. He encouraged the Commission’s members to avoid engaging in trivial matters and instead work diligently to justify the trust placed in them by the people.
“Do not engage in frivolities; the development of the South East is now in your hands. Do not focus solely on the governors, as we have our individual and state interests. Look beyond your origins and strive to leave behind a legacy that reflects who you are,” he stated.
He also expressed confidence in the capabilities of the appointed members of the Commission and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing it. Nwifuru called on governors in the zone to foster a conducive environment and collaborate closely with the Commission to enhance development.
Mark Okoye, the Managing Director of the Commission, represented by the Executive Director of Commerce and Industrial Development, Anthony Agbo, stated that the Commission is working to build partnerships among Southeast states to harmonize policies, pool resources, and establish a solid asset base.
“SEDC has outlined a set of strategic objectives, including collaboration with states to achieve a $200 billion economy by 2025, while catalyzing transformative projects in infrastructure, energy, technology, and improving the ease of doing business,” Agbo said.
The Chairman of the Commission, Dr. Emeka Wogu, assured everyone that the Commission would bridge significant development gaps to ensure sustainable progress in the region.