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Senate Advances South South Development Commission Bill

Esther

The Nigerian Senate took a step towards regional development by advancing the South South Development Commission (SSDC) bill to its second reading.


Sponsored by Senator Ekpeyong Asuquo from Cross River South, the proposed SSDC aims to address the unique developmental needs of Nigeria's South South region.


The commission is designed to manage resources from the Federation Account Allocation and other sources, including donations, aids, and grants, to tackle infrastructural deficits, militancy, communal crises, and ecological challenges.


Senator Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa Central emphasized the necessity of the SSDC, highlighting its distinct role compared to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). He pointed out that while the NDDC is resource-based, benefiting only states with oil production, the SSDC would ensure equitable growth across all states in the South South region.


"The South South Development Commission is created based on geopolitical zones," he stated, urging his fellow senators to support the bill for the benefit of all states within the region.


The bill received backing from Senators Suleman Kawu and Enyinnaya Abaribe, who echoed the need for a commission that addresses the disparities in development benefits among South South states.


The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, commended the foresight of the bill's sponsor and appreciated the understanding shown by senators from other geopolitical zones.


Following a voice vote, the bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Special Duties for further review, marking a crucial step towards its potential enactment into law




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