The Southeast Development Youth Stakeholders Forum (SEDYSF), a coalition of youth groups from Nigeria’s southeastern region, has called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint Senator Rochas Okorocha as Chairman of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC).
In a statement issued at a press conference in Abuja, SEDYSF leaders, including President Comrade John Uba and Secretary Ambassador Ugokwe Ugokwe, endorsed Okorocha as the ideal candidate to lead the commission tasked with driving development in the region.
They praised his extensive experience in public service, leadership, and his unwavering commitment to the growth of the Southeast.
“Senator Okorocha is the right leader to steer the SEDC towards transforming the region. With his vast political experience and dedication to progress, he can effectively address the challenges of the Southeast, including economic disparities, infrastructure gaps, and social injustice.”
The youth group highlighted the region’s potential, including its abundant resources, skilled workforce, and rich cultural heritage, but stressed that strategic leadership was necessary to unlock its full potential.
“The Southeast faces serious challenges, but with Okorocha’s leadership, we are confident that the region can overcome them,” Ugokwe added.
SEDYSF also praised the creation of the Southeast Development Commission, calling it a significant achievement that would foster regional growth.
“We commend President Tinubu and the National Assembly for establishing the commission, a landmark step in promoting national unity and regional progress,” said Ugokwe.
The youth group acknowledged Okorocha’s contributions as a former governor of Imo State and his role in the founding of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
They credited him with effective leadership and transformative initiatives that benefited his state and the country as a whole.
“Okorocha’s tenure as governor was marked by remarkable infrastructure development, educational reforms, and youth empowerment. His leadership style demonstrated his ability to deliver results and drive change.”
SEDYSF expressed confidence that Okorocha would bring strategic vision and leadership to the SEDC, helping the region attract investment, address key challenges, and promote overall development.
“We believe he has the capacity to reposition the Southeast for prosperity,” the group said.
The forum also reiterated its support for President Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing its commitment to advancing national development.
“We are fully behind your leadership, Mr. President, and your policies that prioritize the welfare of Nigerians,” the statement concluded.
SEDYSF further commended Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, for his instrumental role in the creation of the Southeast Development Commission.
“Kalu has proven to be a true patriot with his tireless efforts for the Southeast,” Ugokwe said.
In closing, the youth group appealed to Okorocha to accept the responsibility of leading the SEDC if appointed by President Tinubu.
“We urge Senator Okorocha to heed this call to serve, as his leadership is essential to ensuring the SEDC achieves its mission of transforming the Southeast,” the group stated.
The Southeast Development Commission was recently signed into law to address the region’s socio-economic and infrastructural challenges.
The commission is tasked with coordinating and driving development initiatives across the southeastern states.
