President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has inaugurated Ms. Usoro Akpabio as the pioneer Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) and the governing boards for three new regional development commissions, the South-South, North-Central, and North-East Development Commissions.
The President was represented at the inauguration ceremony by the Minister for Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh, on Thursday, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Abuja.
Minister Momoh emphasized that the creation of these commissions transcends mere political symbolism.
He described it as a strategic action by the President to ensure “equitable balance in our polity for stability and accelerated development in all geopolitical zones in a united Nigeria.” He further outlined the commissions’ clear mandate: “to act as catalysts for infrastructural renewal, social empowerment, and economic diversification within their respective regions. They are to serve as vehicles for stability and sustainable development by tackling specific challenges, coordinating projects, and mobilising stakeholders toward shared progress.”
He charged the newly sworn-in board members to recognize their roles beyond administrative functions, urging them to serve as custodians of the aspirations of millions of Nigerians in their regions.
In her new role, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, whose track record in the energy industry has been widely acknowledged, is well positioned to lead the South-South Development Commission to a place of pride for the region. Her expertise is expected to guide the commission in unlocking the economic potential of the oil-rich South-South and driving sustainable development.
The Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the central role of women in the nation’s socio-economic development. Recognizing that women represent over 50 percent of each region’s population, she called for meaningful gender inclusion in the operations of the development commissions.
This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s broader “Renewed Hope Agenda” and his vision to foster inclusive development across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones.
