For millions of residents across the South-South—farmers, fisherfolk, traders and youths—the promise of real, people-centred development has long felt overdue. That hope resurfaced on Wednesday as the leadership of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) met with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, reaffirming a shared commitment to improving lives in the oil-rich region.
During the courtesy visit in Abuja, SSDC Managing Director, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, said the commission’s work goes beyond infrastructure. She noted that the core mission is to impact ordinary families whose livelihoods have been shaped—often negatively—by years of environmental degradation, lack of basic amenities, and limited economic opportunities.
“Our focus is on driving development that touches real people,” Akpabio said. “We are strengthening collaboration so that communities in the South-South can finally enjoy sustainable growth and dignified living conditions.”
For his part, Wike emphasized that the success of the commission will be measured not in the number of contracts awarded, but in the change felt in rural communities, waterfront settlements and small towns across the region.
“People want to see results. They want clean water, good roads, and opportunities for their children,” Wike said, urging the SSDC board to stay away from political distractions and focus on tangible outcomes. He warned against wasteful spending or projects designed for political patronage rather than community impact.
Board Chairman, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, described the commission as a long-awaited bridge between government policy and the real needs of the South-South people. He promised that the board would adopt a “results-first” approach inspired by the Minister’s leadership style.
For many in the region, the renewed commitment offers a glimmer of hope—hope that long-neglected communities may finally experience development that is visible, meaningful, and tailored to their everyday struggles.
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