The President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, has urged the Federal Government to fully fund and empower the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), describing it as a key vehicle for healing long-standing grievances and driving inclusive development in the region.
Azuta-Mbata made the call at the SEDC Vision 2050 Regional Stakeholder Forum in Enugu, attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and development partners.
He said the forum marked a critical moment for reflection and renewed commitment to the South East’s future within a united Nigeria.
“The South East has contributed immensely to Nigeria’s growth through enterprise, innovation, and resilience. Yet, feelings of exclusion, neglect, and unresolved grievances have taken root in parts of our region,” he said.
According to him, the SEDC goes beyond its statutory mandate and should serve as “a powerful instrument of reconciliation and healing” when properly funded and supported.
“When adequately funded, the Commission can become a visible demonstration of the Federal Government’s commitment to equity, justice, and inclusive development,” Azuta-Mbata stated.
Appealing on behalf of Igbo people at home and in the diaspora, he said sustained funding of the Commission would help rebuild confidence and heal old wounds in the South East.
“This is the time to heal, replace suspicion with trust, and marginalisation with meaningful inclusion. Development, when sincerely pursued, is one of the strongest tools for peace and national unity,” he added.
He also urged stakeholders to support the Commission through ideas, oversight, and accountability, expressing hope that Vision 2050 would mark a turning point where the South East is fully integrated into Nigeria’s development agenda.
