By Abbanobi -Eku Onyeka
Senator Tony Nwoye has charged the South East Development Commission (SEDC) to focus on infrastructural development in the region. Nwoye made this call when the SEDC management team, led by Managing Director Mark Okoye, presented and defended the commission’s N140 billion budget before the Senate committee on Tuesday.
The senator expressed concern that the region’s public hospitals and schools are in a deplorable state, with school children facing harsh conditions. He advised the commission to prioritize infrastructural development, rather than venturing into areas like security, which is the responsibility of state governors.
The Managing Director of the SEDC, Mark Okoye, had presented, defended the commission’s 2026 budget proposal of N140 billion before the Senate Committee on SEDC, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu. Okoye outlined the commission’s plans and priorities for the upcoming year, highlighting the need for increased funding to drive development in the southeast region.
The budget proposal allocates 78% of the funds to capital projects, 17% to overhead costs, and 5% to personnel costs. Okoye explained that the commission plans to focus on key areas such as infrastructure development, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
The SEDC MD highlighted the commission’s achievements in the past year, including the establishment of offices in Enugu and Abia states, and the launch of the Southeast Venture Capital Program. He also outlined the commission’s 100-day plan, which includes the activation of offices in other states, the launch of the Mi Abba Fellowship Program, and the commencement of the Southeast Grassroots Sports Development Program.
Okoye emphasized the importance of investing in the youth and promoting entrepreneurship in the southeast region. He noted that the commission plans to establish a venture capital fund to support startups and small businesses, and to provide training and capacity-building programs for young people.
The Committee however commended the MD on his presentation and expressed support for the commission’s plans. The committee members raised several questions and concerns, including the need for transparency and accountability in the use of funds, and the importance of involving local communities in the development process.
