Paragraph 1: The Genesis and Mandate of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC)
The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s commitment to regional development. Inaugurated on August 28, 2025, following President Bola Tinubu’s assent to the SSDC Bill, the commission embodies a renewed focus on addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by the oil-rich states of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers. Chaired by Chibudom Nwuche, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives instrumental in the passage of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act, the SSDC holds the promise of accelerating progress in a region crucial to Nigeria’s economic prosperity. The commission’s mandate, as outlined in Section 8 of the SSDC Act, is to identify and tackle the root causes of underdevelopment in the South-South. This involves implementing sustainable projects and programs across various sectors, including transportation, industry, agriculture, telecommunications, energy, and housing.
Paragraph 2: Infrastructure Development as a Cornerstone of the SSDC’s Strategy
Recognizing the critical role of infrastructure in driving economic growth and social development, the SSDC has prioritized investments in rail and road networks. Upgrading transportation infrastructure will facilitate the movement of goods and people, connect rural communities to urban centers, and enhance trade within the region and beyond. This focus aligns with the broader national development agenda and aims to unlock the vast economic potential of the South-South. Improved connectivity will create new opportunities for businesses, attract investment, and contribute to poverty reduction. In addition to transportation, the commission is also committed to developing other critical infrastructure, such as ports, power grids, and rural connectivity.
Paragraph 3: Empowering the Youth and Women of the South-South
The SSDC acknowledges the disproportionate impact of oil production on the youth and women of the South-South, particularly in the context of high unemployment rates. Empowering these demographic groups is therefore a central pillar of the commission’s strategy. The SSDC aims to create targeted programs that provide skills development, entrepreneurship training, and access to finance, enabling young people and women to participate actively in the region’s economic transformation. By fostering an environment conducive to job creation and economic empowerment, the commission seeks to address the root causes of social unrest and contribute to long-term stability in the region.
Paragraph 4: Collaborative Partnerships and Strategic Resource Deployment
The SSDC recognizes the importance of collaboration and strategic partnerships to achieve its mandate effectively. Chairman Nwuche has emphasized the commission’s commitment to working closely with state governments, the National Assembly, and development partners, including the NDDC and relevant federal agencies. This collaborative approach aims to avoid duplication of projects, optimize resource allocation, and ensure synergy in development efforts. The SSDC also plans to engage with international development organizations and private sector investors to leverage expertise and funding for its various programs. By fostering a culture of partnership, the commission seeks to maximize its impact and achieve sustainable development outcomes.
Paragraph 5: Transforming the South-South into a Globally Competitive Region
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SSDC, Usoro Akpabio, articulated a vision for the South-South as a region “ready for the world.” This vision underscores the commission’s ambition to transform the region into a globally competitive economic hub. Through strategic investments in infrastructure, policy engagement, and public-private partnerships, the SSDC aims to build the economic backbone of the South-South. The commission’s programs will focus on creating opportunities for trade, attracting foreign investment, and fostering innovation. By leveraging the region’s natural resources and human capital, the SSDC seeks to create a prosperous and sustainable future for the people of the South-South.
Paragraph 6: A Deliberate and Bold Approach to Development
The SSDC acknowledges that fulfilling its mandate requires a deliberate, bold, and sometimes difficult approach. The commission is committed to making strategic choices that prioritize long-term sustainable development over short-term gains. This includes addressing the complex environmental challenges associated with oil production, promoting inclusive economic growth, and strengthening governance structures. The SSDC recognizes that its success depends on the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including government, the private sector, civil society organizations, and the people of the South-South. By working together, the commission believes that the South-South can realize its full potential and become a model for regional development in Nigeria and beyond.
