The House of Representatives Committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has approved the ₦250 billion budget for 2025. The funds will be used to address infrastructure, erosion control, and human capital development in the region.
Chairman of the Committee, Chris Nkwonta, described the budget as a “long-overdue step towards rebuilding the South East”, which has suffered neglect since the end of the Nigerian Civil War in 1970.
“This budget marks the beginning of development for a region left behind for over 54 years,” he said.
He said he was optimistic the budget would help bring government presence to abandoned areas in the region.
Addressing Long-standing Neglect
Nkwonta stressed that the South East has faced decades of unfulfilled promises and infrastructural decay. He emphasized that the budget will focus on key sectors such as road construction, railway expansion, bridge building, and skill development.
“This budget is not enough, but it is a starting point,” he said. “We expect additional funding from federal allocations, contributions from the five South Eastern states, ecological funds, and oil companies operating in the region.”
The South East has struggled with erosion, bad roads, and high unemployment, leading to frustration among its youth. The SEDC budget aims to reduce these issues and create new economic opportunities.
Nkwonta also observed that “Development will help bring an end to agitations and youthful unrest,”, adding that strategically implementing SEDC’s projects could reduce insecurity by tackling unemployment and empowering young people.
“The South East has waited too long for this,” Nkwonta noted. “This budget is the first step towards change.”
The Commission assured the public that it will begin work immediately once funds are disbursed.
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