The newly established South West Development Commission is set to address unemployment, bridge infrastructural gaps, and tackle environmental challenges in Nigeria’s South West region, according to Hon. Ademorin Kuye, member representing Somolu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
In a recent interview with Adamimogo 93.1FM Lagos, Hon. Kuye who sponsored the bill at the Green chambers elaborated on the vision behind the Commission. “The primary objectives are to provide more employment opportunities for people in the South West region and, crucially, to address the infrastructural deficits we face,” he stated.
Kuye highlighted the environmental concerns that the Commission aims to address. “Given the topography of our region, we’re losing significant land to erosion. The Commission will work to mitigate these issues,” he explained.
The lawmaker also stressed the Commission’s role in enhancing regional security. “We envision the Commission supporting state governments in their security efforts, particularly by bolstering the operations of Amotekun, our Regional Security Network,” Kuye added.
However, even as the bill awaits presidential assent, political maneuvering has already begun with Hon. Kuye revealing that governors from the South West are actively lobbying for key positions within the Commission.
“I can tell you authoritatively that there’s intense lobbying underway. Several governors have reached out, commending the bill and expressing interest in securing top roles such as Chairman and Managing Director,” Kuye disclosed.
The Representative noted that since the bill’s passage in the House, South West governors have consistently expressed gratitude to the region’s legislative caucus for initiating the bill through various events and platforms.
Despite the political lobbying, Kuye remains optimistic about the Commission’s future. “I’m confident that whoever is selected to lead the Commission will be fully committed to achieving its objectives,” he stated.
With the bill already passed by the Senate this week, Hon. Kuye expressed hope that President Bola Tinubu would swiftly assent to the bill, allowing the South West Development Commission to commence its vital work for the region.
