The Nigerian Senate has passed a bill to establish the South West Development Commission (SWDC). The bill, aimed at addressing infrastructural and developmental challenges in the South-western part of the country, was passed on Thursday after deliberation in the Senate chamber.
Presented by Kaka Shehu, chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, the bill received overwhelming support from lawmakers.
The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, who presided over the plenary, confirmed the bill’s passage after a voice vote.
Sponsored by Gbenga Daniel (APC, Ogun East), the bill seeks to allocate and manage funds for reconstructing and rehabilitating damaged infrastructure in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti States. These funds will also address ecological, environmental, and developmental issues in the region.
The SWDC will receive funds from the federation account, donations, and gifts to support its mandate.
Once signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, the commission will bring the federal government closer to the people, facilitating enhanced socio-economic development.
Mr. Shehu emphasized the significance of the commission, stating that it aligns with national standards and will help meet the aspirations of the South-west people.
He added, “The establishment of the commission will address the social, ecological, and developmental challenges facing the South-west region.”
The Senate expressed confidence that the SWDC would serve as a blueprint for regional development, contributing positively to the entire nation’s growth.
Barau Jibrin highlighted the importance of such development initiatives, stating, “Once a region is developed, it impacts the entire country.”
The bill will be transmitted to the House of Representatives for harmonization and subsequently to President Tinubu for his assent.
If approved, the SWDC will join other regional development commissions, such as the North East Development Commission (NEDC), Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), and others working towards Nigeria’s growth.