House Of Reps Members Approve Establishment Of South-West, South-East Development Commissions

The House of Representatives on Tuesday approved the establishment of the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) and South-East Development Commission (SEDC).

The House also approved special financial support for the revamping of the Armed Forces.

These followed the consideration and adoption of several clauses and recommendations in three reports of Bills seeking for the establishment of South-West, South-East Development Commission and a special fund for the Armed Forces

Presenting the report of the Committee on Justice on a Bill for an Act to establish South-West Development Commission, Hon. Ozurigbo Ugonna said the commission will be amongst others, charged with 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.

He said the commission would also be saddled with the responsibility of the execution of such other works and functions, which are required for the sustainable development of the South-West States and its people.

The report for the South-East Development Commission, presented by the Deputy Chief Whip of the House, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, stated that the 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 Chairman House Committee on Defence, Hon. Babajimi Benson, said for the Armed Forces fund, the Bill seeks to provide special financial support, training and modern security equipment for the revamping of the Armed Forces.