Wike Warns New SSDC Board: “Don’t Fail Tinubu—Deliver For The South-South!”

According to Ireporter Online, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged the newly inaugurated South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to prioritize grassroots advancement in alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Wike made the call on Wednesday when the Commission’s Board and Management Team, led by Chairman Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, paid him a courtesy visit at his office.

He congratulated the appointees, noting that their selection by President Tinubu reflected trust and goodwill. Wike reminded them that their loyalty must be demonstrated through results, insisting that the best way to justify their appointments is by working relentlessly to deliver visible development across the South-South region.

The Minister warned the members against allowing political distractions or being used as instruments of division by groups opposed to the President’s development vision. He emphasized that their mandate is to uplift the people of the region and ensure that the Commission’s establishment translates into meaningful impact on the ground. Wike questioned their personal commitment to service, asking whether they were prepared to truly advance the region and uphold the President’s mission.

He also cautioned against the misuse of public funds, stressing that the Commission must operate with unity, integrity, and full dedication to its responsibilities. Wike outlined clear expectations for project implementation, urging members not to abandon their core duties or divert resources meant for development projects. He insisted that only financially supported initiatives should be pursued, warning members not to award contracts to satisfy personal or political interests.

Highlighting the importance of proper consultation, the Minister advised the Commission to engage state governors before undertaking projects to avoid duplication and ensure strategic alignment. He noted that only collaborative planning with state officials would guarantee that interventions truly benefit communities.

Wike further commended President Tinubu for demonstrating boldness and leadership in establishing regional development commissions, stating that such a move required vision and courage. He noted that no previous administration had taken such a step, describing it as a testament to strong and decisive governance.

Earlier, SSDC Chairman Hon. Chibudom Nwuche expressed deep appreciation to the FCT Minister for his instrumental role in the Commission’s creation and his consistent support. He praised Wike’s reputation for delivering results and pledged that the Board would emulate his leadership style, particularly in timely execution of developmental projects. Nwuche reaffirmed the Commission’s loyalty to President Tinubu and its commitment to transforming the South-South region.

The Commission’s Managing Director, Miss Usoro Akpabio, also pledged dedication to the mandate, thanking the Minister for his encouragement and assuring him that the team would work diligently to deliver development to the region.