Reps adopt reports on establishment of South-West, South-East development commissions

Members of the House of Representatives, on Tuesday, expressed overwhelming support for the establishment of the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) and South-East Development Commission (SEDC)

In the same vein, the lawmakers during the Committee of the Whole adopted the recommendations of its Committee on Defence for the establishment of special financial support for the revamping of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

While presenting the two reports, Chairman, House Committee on Justice, Hon. Ozurigbo Ugonna said the bill which seeks to establish South-West Development Commission will be charged with the responsibility to receive and manage funds, from allocation of the Federation Account, including donations and gifts, the reconstruction and rehabilitation of roads, houses and other Infrastructural damages suffered by the region, as well as execution of such other works and functions, which are required for the sustainable development of the South-west states and its people.

On her part, Deputy Majority Whip, Hon. Nkeruika Onyejeocha who spoke on the South-East Development Commission explained that the proposed commission will serve as a catalyst to develop the commercial potentials of the South East.

According to her, the commission is to receive and manage funds from allocation of the Federation for the rehabilitation, reconstruction and reparation for houses and lost businesses of victims of the Civil War, and as well address any other environmental or developmental challenges in the region.

The bills are expected to pass through Third Reading on the next legislative day.

On his part, Chairman, House Committee on Defence, Hon Babajimi Benson explained that the Bill seeks to provide special financial support, training and modern security equipment for the revamping of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

(Nigerian Tribune)