The lawmaker representing Andoni-Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency in Rivers State, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Dagomie Abiante, has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for officially signing the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Bill into law.
Abiante, who was the lead sponsor of the bill, described the President’s assent as a significant milestone for the South-South region, bringing an end to years of legislative effort that spanned both the 9th and 10th Assemblies.
Legislative Journey of the SSDC Bill
Speaking with journalists on Wednesday, the lawmaker outlined the long path the bill took before reaching its final approval:
The bill was initially passed by the House of Representatives in the 9th Assembly on November 16, 2021, but did not receive Senate concurrence.
In the 10th Assembly, Abiante reintroduced the bill on July 25, 2023.
The House passed the bill again on July 16, 2024, after which it was forwarded to the Senate.
A similar bill was introduced in the Senate by Senator Ekpenyong, leading to a conference committee reconciliation process.
The harmonized version was sent to President Tinubu, who has now signed it into law.
Need for Competent Leadership in SSDC
Rep. Abiante emphasized that for the SSDC to achieve its mandate, it must be managed by men and women of impeccable character who can effectively tackle the region’s infrastructural deficits and socio-economic challenges.
“Going by the experiences of similar agencies, Mr. President should appoint individuals with integrity to steer the Commission. The South-South has suffered deficits in infrastructure and other critical areas. If this is properly managed, President Tinubu will have written his name in gold,” he stated.
Difference Between SSDC and NDDC
Addressing concerns about overlapping roles, Abiante clarified that the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) is distinct from the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The NDDC includes states outside the South-South region, such as Ondo (South-West) and Imo (South-East), whereas the SSDC is exclusively for the six South-South states.
Other regions—North-East, North-West, and North-Central—also have their own development commissions, ensuring regional equity in addressing development challenges.
The SSDC’s focus aligns with similar agencies like HYPPADEC (for hydroelectric power-producing areas) and the proposed Solid Minerals Development Commission.
Challenges Facing the South-South Region
Abiante highlighted severe infrastructural gaps in the region, emphasizing that even major cities like Port Harcourt face basic water and electricity shortages.
“It’s alarming that, in 2025, many South-South cities still lack access to clean drinking water and consistent electricity. If we cannot guarantee basic amenities in urban areas, what happens to the rural communities?” he questioned.
He stressed that industrial growth and economic development are impossible without stable power supply, urging the federal government to prioritize energy solutions for the region.
Call for Urgent Action
The lawmaker reiterated that the SSDC Act is a step forward, but its success will depend on effective implementation, accountability, and a commitment to regional development. He urged President Tinubu to ensure that the right individuals are appointed to drive the commission’s mission of transforming the South-South.
