The South-East Development Commission (SEDC), recently established by President Bola Tinubu, has ignited a spark of hope and optimism among industrialists and business leaders in Anambra State. They view the commission as a pivotal instrument for unlocking the vast economic potential of the South-East geopolitical zone and ushering in an era of unprecedented growth and development. The commission’s mandate to reconstruct and rehabilitate infrastructure damaged during the Nigeria-Biafra war, coupled with its focus on broader economic rejuvenation, is seen as a crucial step towards addressing historical imbalances and fostering a more prosperous future for the region. This sentiment is shared widely across the business community, with prominent figures expressing their confidence in the commission’s leadership and its potential to transform the South-East.
The appointment of Mark Okoye, MD/CEO of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency, as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, and Dr. Emeka Nworgu, a former Minister of Labour, as Chairman of the SEDC has been met with widespread approval. Their combined experience in investment promotion, economic development, and public service is seen as a strong asset for the commission. Business leaders believe that their expertise and leadership qualities will be instrumental in driving the SEDC’s vision forward and delivering tangible results for the people of the South-East. This strategic selection of experienced professionals signals a commitment to competence and effectiveness, reinforcing the hope that the SEDC will operate with transparency and accountability.
President Tinubu’s decision to prioritize competence over political considerations in constituting the SEDC board has been particularly lauded. Don Ebubeogu, a prominent businessman and former president of the Anambra Chambers of Commerce, commended the President for this approach, viewing it as a significant departure from past practices. Ebubeogu expressed hope that this signals a shift away from political patronage and towards a more meritocratic system, where appointments are based on qualifications and experience rather than political connections. This renewed focus on competence is seen as a positive sign for the region, promising a more effective and efficient use of resources for development.
The optimism surrounding the SEDC extends beyond its leadership to encompass its potential impact on the region’s economy. Mrs. Ijeoma Oduonye, the Chief Executive Officer of Cutix Plc, expressed confidence in the commission’s ability to fulfill its mandate of infrastructural transformation and economic revitalization. She believes that the SEDC’s interventions will not only repair the physical damage caused by the war but also stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and improve the overall quality of life for the people of the South-East. This expectation of positive economic impact resonates widely among business leaders, who see the SEDC as a catalyst for sustainable development and prosperity.
The SEDC’s focus on infrastructure development is particularly crucial for the South-East. The region’s infrastructure has suffered from years of neglect, hindering economic growth and connectivity. The commission’s mandate to rebuild and rehabilitate this infrastructure is seen as a vital step towards unlocking the region’s potential. Improved roads, bridges, and other essential infrastructure will facilitate trade, attract investment, and create new opportunities for businesses to thrive. This focus on infrastructure is not simply about physical reconstruction, but also about laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and development.
The business community in Anambra State has expressed its gratitude to President Tinubu for establishing the SEDC and appointing its Governing Board and Executive Management. They are eagerly anticipating the swift confirmation of the nominees and the commencement of the commission’s operations. There is a strong sense of hope that the SEDC will deliver on its promises and usher in a new era of prosperity for the South-East, addressing long-standing challenges and creating a brighter future for the region. This optimism is underpinned by the belief that the SEDC represents a genuine commitment to the development of the South-East and a recognition of its potential to contribute significantly to the national economy.
