Ohanaeze Ndigbo Youth Council Worldwide has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s selection of board members for the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), calling the appointments “round pegs in round holes.”
In a statement issued on Sunday, Mazi Okwu Nnabuike, National President of the apex Igbo socio-political organization, praised the President’s decision, highlighting the caliber of individuals chosen to lead the commission.
“This is a clear sign of the seriousness President Tinubu attaches to the South-East Development Commission,” Nnabuike said. “The team he has chosen is not just a group of names but men with track records of success and dedication in both public and private service.”
Among the standout members is Dr. Emeka Nworgu, who has been appointed as the chairman of the SEDC board. Nworgu is a former chairman of Abia South Local Government Area and served as a political adviser under former Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State. His distinguished career also includes two terms as a minister during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Nnabuike emphasized Nworgu’s impressive background. “He performed creditably in all the offices he held, and now, he has a unique opportunity to continue his service to the South-East through the SEDC,” he said.
Another key figure in the commission is Rt. Hon. Toby Okechukwu, who has been appointed as the executive director of projects. Okechukwu, known as “Mr. Project” during his time as a member of the National Assembly, played a crucial role in bringing major infrastructure projects to his constituency.
Okechukwu was the Chairman of the House Committee on Works and was instrumental in overseeing key projects like the Second Niger Bridge, the rehabilitation of the Abuja-Kano Federal Highway, and the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
“His leadership in the House of Representatives left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s infrastructure development, and now, with the SEDC, he will continue to serve his people and the entire South-East region,” Nnabuike remarked.
The selection of Chief Sylvester Okonkwo, Chief of Staff to the President of the 10th Senate, His Excellency Godswill Akpabio, as part of the SEDC board was also praised by Ohanaeze. Okonkwo’s appointment signals the continuation of quality leadership and collaboration between the South-East and national government structures.
“With such a distinguished team in charge, the South-East Development Commission is poised for greatness,” Nnabuike added. “The President deserves our full commendation for making such a phenomenal choice. He has set the ball rolling for real progress.”
As the board members take charge, Nnabuike expressed optimism for the long-awaited rebuilding of the South-East, which has suffered from years of marginalization and underdevelopment. For many in the region, this moment marks the beginning of a new chapter.
“The South-East has long cried out against the high level of marginalization,” Nnabuike said. “This injustice has fueled anger and led to calls for Biafra. But now, with this bold move by President Tinubu, the first step towards addressing these grievances has been taken.”
He called for sustained support for the commission’s initiatives, especially in terms of funding. “We urge the President to ensure adequate funding for the Commission in the 2025 budget,” Nnabuike said. “Without sufficient funds, all the hopes and dreams of our people will remain unfulfilled.”
Despite these concerns, Nnabuike is hopeful. “We are positive that the South-East is finally on the path to recovery and development,” he said. “The time we’ve been waiting for is here, and we are confident that with the right resources, the South-East will flourish.”
The statement concluded with a promise of continued support for the President and his administration from the people of the South-East. “We assure the President that Ndigbo stand with him now and in the future,” Nnabuike said.
