By Abasi Ita
The Managing Director of the South South Development Commission, Ms Usoro Akpabio, has pledged closer collaboration with the Federal Capital Territory and other government institutions to advance development across the South South region.
Akpabio made the commitment on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the commission’s board to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.
She assured the Minister that the SSDC is fully committed to driving economic growth and sustainable development, adding that the commission will strengthen cooperation with relevant agencies to ensure the South South region is properly integrated into national planning and policy frameworks.
“On behalf of the South South Development Commission, be rest assured that we are fully committed to driving economic growth and sustainable regional development,” Akpabio said. She also highlighted the commission’s plan to deepen engagement with government bodies to improve coordination and accelerate progress.
In his remarks, Minister Wike urged the board to prioritise grassroots development and remain loyal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He cautioned the commission against internal divisions and misuse of public funds.
“Do not award projects to satisfy selfish interests,” Wike warned, advising the leadership to work closely with state governors to prevent duplication of projects and ensure prudent financial management.
The Board Chairman, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, praised Wike for his contribution to the commission’s establishment and pledged that the board would adopt the Minister’s result oriented approach to infrastructure development.
Established by the Tinubu administration, the South South Development Commission is mandated to accelerate economic and infrastructural development in the oil producing region.