The newly inaugurated Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), Mark Okoye II, has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to driving economic growth and infrastructure development in the South East region.
In his inaugural address, Okoye expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for entrusting him and his colleagues with the leadership of the Commission. He also acknowledged the National Assembly for passing the SEDC bill into law and the Senate Committee on Regional Commissions for their role in screening and confirming the board.
Following the official inauguration, the Commission is now set to execute its core mandate rebuilding critical infrastructure damaged during the Nigerian Civil War and addressing broader developmental challenges in the region.
Okoye highlighted the urgent need for development, citing World Bank estimates that Nigeria requires an annual investment of $100–$150 billion to close its infrastructure gap, with at least $10 billion needed for the South East alone.
The region, he noted, faces significant challenges, including over 2,500 active erosion sites, high unemployment rates, and a difficult investment climate. However, he emphasized the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the people, outlining an ambitious goal to grow the South East economy to $200 billion by 2035, in line with President Tinubu’s vision of a $1 trillion national GDP.
Okoye noted that the SEDC will collaborate with state governments, the private sector, and development partners to drive growth. As part of its immediate strategy, the Commission will engage with:
State Governments to align initiatives with regional priorities and the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Private Sector to secure investments and create job opportunities.
Academia & Research Institutions to ensure evidence-based policymaking and workforce development.
Traditional & Religious Leaders to strengthen grassroots engagement and social cohesion.
Civil Society Organizations to promote accountability and inclusivity.
Building on past regional economic blueprints, including the visionary plans of Dr. Michael Okpara, the Commission will focus on key sectors:
Security & Investment Climate – Enhancing stability to attract investors.
Infrastructure Development – Implementing master plans for major projects.
Agriculture & Industrialization – Strengthening value chains and revamping industrial clusters.
Technology & Innovation – Promoting digital skills and entrepreneurship.
Human Capital Development – Supporting education, healthcare, and vocational training.
Okoye assured that the Commission would prioritize action over rhetoric, with every project aligned to a clear roadmap and measurable impact. In the coming months, SEDC will launch several initiatives, with a forthcoming interactive website to enable public engagement.
Calling for a shift in focus from celebrations to productivity, he urged well-wishers to channel their support into ideas, prayers, and collaboration, emphasizing that the best honor would be allowing the Commission to concentrate on delivering tangible results.
“We have a unique opportunity to transform the South East into an economic powerhouse,” he stated. “Together, let us usher in a new era of regional development and economic transformation.”
With its leadership in place, the SEDC is set to hit the ground running, ushering in a new chapter for the South East region. As the Commission moves forward, stakeholders and residents alike anticipate meaningful progress in infrastructure, economic expansion, and sustainable development.
