The National Leader, Chief Uzozie Henry Obiajulu, alongside the Finance Director, of Henry Marshall Foundation, and Elders-in-Council, have expressed their heartfelt commendation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC) Bill. This landmark decision is seen as a significant leap forward for the Southeast region.
Chief Uzozie celebrated the President’s decision as a new beginning for the Southeast, encompassing Imo, Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Ebonyi states. The Igbo Bu Igbo Southeast Forum extended its gratitude to Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, and other co-sponsors of the bill for their tireless efforts in bringing the long-awaited SEDC to fruition.
The SEDC aims to manage funds from the federation account for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads and other infrastructure in the Southeast region, addressing ecological and environmental challenges that have plagued the region.
Chief Uzozie emphasized that this commission is a crucial step towards addressing the historical neglect and underdevelopment of the Southeast, thanking the governors of the region for their support. He highlighted the federal government’s neglect of the region over the past 54 years since General Yakubu Gowon’s 3R promise in 1970.
The National Leader pointed out that the Southeast has suffered from a lack of local government areas, state political appointments, and poor infrastructure compared to other regions. He expressed optimism that the SEDC would help leverage the region’s industrial, agricultural, tourism, energy, commercial, and investment potentials.
Additionally, the Igbo Bu Igbo Southeast Forum noted the federal government’s plans to construct a 477-kilometer, six-lane superhighway connecting the Southeast to Abuja, announced by Minister of Works, Sen. David Nweze Umahi.
The National Leader and Elders-in-Council expressed their gratitude to President Tinubu for departing from previous administrations by signing the SEDC Bill into law and making key appointments. They concluded that these actions symbolize equality, justice, and fairness, marking a promising new beginning for the Southeast region.