The Nigerian Senate has advanced a bill to establish the South South Development Commission after it passed its second reading on Thursday.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Ekpeyong Asuquo (Cross River South), aims to create a commission that will manage funds from the Federation Account, donations, and other sources to address issues like infrastructure deficits, militancy, communal conflicts, and environmental challenges in the South South region.
Senator Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa Central) emphasized that the commission would drive development in the region and clarified its distinction from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), which is resource-based, benefiting only oil-producing states. He noted that some South South states, like Cross River, do not benefit from NDDC funds, making the new commission necessary to ensure fair regional development.
Senators Suleman Kawu (Kano South) and Enyinnaya Abaribe (Abia South) echoed support for the bill, agreeing with Dickson’s explanation of the commission’s unique role.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the bill’s sponsor and praised senators from other regions for their understanding. The bill was passed through a voice vote and referred to the Senate Committee on Special Duties for further consideration.
