House of Reps Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, Thanks Tinubu for Signing SEDC Bill
South East Development Commission: My Appreciation
On behalf of the South-East geopolitical zone of Nigeria, known for its enterprise and entrepreneurship, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) Bill into law.
This achievement is not just a legislative success but a historic milestone for the South-East. The commission, funded by the Federation Account, will address the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other infrastructure damaged during the civil war. Additionally, it will tackle ecological issues and other developmental challenges in Abia, Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Ebonyi states.
Notably, this bill did not pass in the 8th and 9th National Assemblies. However, our persistence in advocating for people-centered legislation has finally borne fruit. Reflecting on our history, Nigeria’s post-civil war transition, which started 54 years ago, focused on reconciliation, rehabilitation, and reconstruction. While reconciliation and rehabilitation have been achieved, the signing of this bill marks the beginning of complete reconstruction in the South-East.
The passage of this bill highlights our collective effort and dedication to rebuilding our region. I am thankful to my colleagues in the National Assembly, all Nigerians who supported this bill, and especially to President Tinubu for his unwavering support and leadership.
I also extend the gratitude of all Ndi Igbo (Igbo people) from the South-East. This momentous occasion fills us with hope and determination. We pledge that the commission will work diligently to realize the dreams and aspirations of our people, and we will continue to seek positive development for our zone.
This moment calls us to reaffirm our values and commitments, to measure ourselves against the legacy of our ancestors and the promise to future generations. Fellow Nigerians, we have much work to do: for workers finding their footing in a changing economy, for parents striving to provide for their children, and for young people building a better future.
Beyond our legislative efforts, my colleagues and I from the South-East have initiated non-kinetic measures to address regional insecurity through the Peace in South East Project (PISE-P). This non-governmental initiative provides the necessary leadership to execute these efforts effectively.
I urge my fellow South-Easterners not to join the planned anti-government protests. Instead, let us view the signing of the SEDC bill as evidence of President Tinubu’s commitment to healing past wounds, addressing concerns of marginalization, and renewing hope for equitable economic growth and socio-cultural renewal. This is a time for unity and progress, not division and unrest.
I also call on all Nigerians to trust in the ongoing reforms of the current administration, which will soon yield positive results such as reversing inflation, stabilizing the economy, and generating employment through industrialization and the efforts of organizations like the SEDC.
I encourage everyone to engage more in governance through the appropriate channels with your state governments and legislators. Active and constructive participation is essential for making our voices heard and driving meaningful change. As Chinua Achebe once said, “A functioning, robust democracy requires a healthy educated, and participatory followership.”
Let us remember that our strength lies in our unity, shared dreams, and collective efforts. Together, we can build a Nigeria where every child has a decent shot at life and opportunities are available to all. We know we can do better, and we will.
Thank you, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
