President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reconstituted the board of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC), introducing a new chairman, executive directors, and expanding the membership to 16 members. This restructuring, announced hours after the initial nominations, reflects the President’s determination to ensure effective leadership and drive development in the South-East region. The changes are aimed at revitalizing the Commission’s efforts to foster sustainable growth and address the region’s challenges.
Dr. Emeka Nworgu has been appointed as the new chairman of the board, replacing Hon. Emeka Atuma, who was originally slated for the position. The reshuffled board also retains Hon. Mark C. Okoye as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, ensuring continuity in leadership. Okoye’s continued presence aims to provide stability and focus as the Commission works toward its development goals.
Significant changes also occurred among the executive directors, with five members now on the board. Stanley Ohajuruka has been named the Executive Director of Finance, taking over from Anthony Ugbo. Toby Okechukwu will serve as the new Executive Director of Projects, replacing Obinna Obiekweihe. Chief Sylvester Okonkwo has been appointed as Executive Director of Corporate Services, filling the role previously held by Dr. Daniel Ikechukwu Ugwuja. Additionally, Chidi Echeazu and Dr. Clifford Ogbede have been introduced as new executive directors, though their specific portfolios have not been disclosed.
The reshuffling also saw the removal of Donatus Eyinnah Nwankpa from the board, while other members like Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah, Hon. Okey Ezenwa, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, and Nasiru Usman were retained. Notably, new members such as Edward David Onoja, Orure Kufre Inima, and Chief (Mrs.) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma were included in the reconstituted board. The changes bring the total number of members to 16, a significant expansion of the Commission’s leadership.
These nominations are subject to Senate confirmation, but President Tinubu expressed confidence in the newly appointed team, urging them to utilize their expertise and experience in fulfilling the Commission’s mandate. The reshuffle aligns with the President’s broader vision of promoting equity, national unity, and sustainable development across Nigeria, particularly in the South-East region. The new board is expected to play a crucial role in advancing transformative initiatives that will improve the region’s infrastructure, economy, and overall development.
