The Senate has charged nominees for the Governing Boards of the North West Development Commission (NWDC) and South East Development Commission (SEDC) to justify the confidence reposed in them by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians.
The admonition was made during the screening session conducted on Monday by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Regional Development Commissions, chaired by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (APC, Abia-North).
Senators underscored the importance of ethical governance and development-focused leadership in the commissions, warning nominees against betraying public trust.
Prof. Abdullahi Shehu Ma’aji, who retained his position as Managing Director of the NWDC, led the commission’s 14 nominees. Other appointees included Alhaji Lawal Samai’la Abdullahi (Chairman), Dr. Yahaya Umar Namahe, Hon. Aminu Suleiman, and several others.
The SEDC’s 18-member board was led by Dr. Emeka Nworgu (Chairman) and Hon. Mark C. Okoye (Managing Director/CEO), supported by prominent figures such as Barr. Ugochukwu Agballah, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, and Dr. Clifford Ogbede, among others.
Speaking during the session, Senator Babangida Hussaini reminded the nominees of their responsibility to Nigerians and the president.
“Candidly speaking, you must realize that the confidence of Nigerians and President Tinubu, who found you worthy of this appointment, rests on your shoulders. Justify this trust, work for Nigerians, and address the many challenges we face. Don’t let Nigeria or the president down,” he said.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu reiterated the importance of prioritizing public interest and warned against unethical practices.
“You are the face of these organizations, and we will not tolerate anything that tarnishes the image of the commissions or brings disrepute to the president. Use allocated funds strictly for development projects, and don’t pay for jobs that aren’t done. The Senate will oversee your activities closely, and any misconduct will be reported to the president for appropriate action,” Kalu cautioned.
The committee highlighted the urgency of the nominees’ clearance due to the ongoing budget process. Kalu stressed the need for collaboration between the commissions and the National Assembly to ensure timely project execution and budget implementation.
“We are clearing you now because of the budget process. If you fail to act appropriately, your commissions may miss out on key developmental funding. Improve your relationship with the National Assembly to foster progress,” he added.
With no objections raised against their clearance, the nominees are expected to formally assume their roles soon. The Senate has assured Nigerians of its commitment to monitoring the activities of the commissions to ensure accountability and tangible development in the North West and South East regions.