The Nigerian Senate on Thursday, September 26, passed a bill to establish the South West Development Commission (SWDC), aimed at fostering socio-economic growth in the region. The commission will manage funds from the federation account, donations, and gifts, focusing on the reconstruction of infrastructure and addressing ecological, environmental, and developmental challenges.
Sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel (APC, Ogun East), the bill was passed after a report from the Senate Committee on Special Duties, chaired by Kaka Shehu, was reviewed. The bill received overwhelming support through a voice vote and will now proceed to the House of Representatives for harmonization before being sent to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
The SWDC is expected to enhance federal presence in the South West, comprising Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti states, while addressing the region’s pressing challenges. If signed into law, it will join four other regional development commissions already established in Nigeria, with similar proposals for the North Central Development Commission also under consideration in the National Assembly.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, praised the initiative, stating that it would significantly improve the region’s development and benefit the entire country. He expressed optimism that President Tinubu would approve the bill, citing his commitment to national development.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
