In a significant move aimed at strengthening the South East Development Commission (SEDC), President Bola Tinubu has restructured the Commission's management, ushering in a new leadership team.
Hon. Emeka Atuma has been relieved of his duties as Chairman, with Emeka Nworgu appointed as his successor.
The announcement was made via a statement from the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who detailed the comprehensive changes to the Commission’s leadership.
Alongside the new chairman, all three executive directors initially nominated have been replaced, and two additional executive directors have been appointed, expanding the Commission's board to 16 members, one more than previously constituted.
Notably, Stanley Ohajuruka has been named Executive Director for Finance, replacing Anthony Ugbo, while Toby Okechukwu has taken over as Executive Director of Projects from Obinna Obiekweihe.
Chief Sylvester Okonkwo now serves as Executive Director of Corporate Services, succeeding Dr. Daniel Ikechukwu Ugwuja.
Additionally, Chidi Echeazu and Clifford Ogbede have been appointed as executive directors without assigned portfolios.
The Commission’s Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Mark C. Okoye, retains his position, ensuring continuity amidst the changes.
President Tinubu also removed Donatus Eyinnah Nwankpa from the board, while retaining other key members, including Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah, Hon. Okey Ezenwa, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Nasiru Usman, Hamma Adama Ali Kumo, Edward David Onoja, Orure Kufre Inima, and Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma.
All nominations are subject to Senate confirmation.
The restructuring underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to actualizing the Commission’s mandate of fostering development and prosperity in the Southeast region.
Onanuga emphasized that the new nominees, as pioneers, are expected to leverage their expertise and experience to drive impactful change and address developmental challenges in the region.
The South East Development Commission, established to promote socio-economic development in the region, is poised for a new era of leadership and innovation under this restructured board.