Usoro Akpabio Confirmed as Pioneer MD of South-South Development Commission
The Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed Usoro Akpabio, FRSA, as the first Managing Director of the newly established South-South Development Commission (SSDC). This marks a notable step for the Commission, formed under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The Senate also confirmed the Chairman and other Board members of the SSDC.
Akpabio, a 45 year-old energy executive from Urruan – Akwa Ibom State, underwent screening by the Senate Committee chaired by Senator Benson Konbowei. She was confirmed alongside the Commission’s Chairman, Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche (Rivers State), and other notable board members including Ambassador Soni Abang and Rt. Hon. Larry Odey (Cross River State), Charles Zuofa (Bayelsa), Dr. Nkereuwem Ebong (Akwa Ibom), Chika Chinedu (Rivers), Femi Oise (Edo), Dr. Charles Sylvester Enukhowhate (Delta), Marcus Nie Eji (Projects, Rivers), Aganaba Preye Steve (Social & Human Capital Development, Bayelsa), Dr. Timi Alari Ayibatonye (Corporate Services, Delta) and Joseph Ugheoke (Commercial and Environmental Development, Edo).
Akpabio’s confirmation is viewed as a momentous move towards fostering coordinated development in the South-South region. A fellow of the Royal Society of Arts London, praised for her extensive experience and deep understanding of the region’s unique challenges. She is considered to possess the necessary qualifications and organizational expertise to pilot the SSDC.
During her presentation, she outlined various solutions for the region, emphasizing collaboration with federal agencies. Her appointment has garnered widespread commendation from stakeholders across the Niger Delta and Nigeria.
In a related development, Dr. Mark Okoye was also confirmed by the Senate as the MD/CEO of the South East Development Commission, along with other members of other regional development Commissions.
By: Eugene Upah
