SSDC: Ikono-Born Philanthropist, Dr. Abasiono Okon Eulogizes President Tinubu, Sen. Akpabio

 

••• Makes Case for Akwa Ibom as Commission’s Headquarters

Philanthropist, politician, and Managing Director/CEO of Abaringo Nigeria Limited, Dr. Abasiono Okon, has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing into law the bill establishing the South-South Development Commission (SSDC).

Speaking with reporters from his Abuja base, the Ikono-born businessman described the move as a "good omen and a welcome development," noting that it would ensure balanced development across the region.

The former House of Assembly aspirant for Ikono State Constituency particularly commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio for his strategic role in making the SSDC a reality, stating that Akpabio’s tenure has ushered in a new era of legislative-executive harmony that is yielding tangible benefits for all parts of the country.

Dr. Okon emphasized that with the SSDC now in place, all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria have dedicated development agencies to address their regional infrastructural and economic challenges. 

He dismissed concerns raised by some quarters over the existence of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), arguing that both interventionist bodies have distinct mandates.

"The South-South region is the economic heartbeat of the nation, producing the oil wealth that sustains Nigeria. There is nothing wrong with having both SSDC and NDDC working in synergy to fast-track development. While the NDDC covers nine states, SSDC is specifically for the six South-South states, ensuring a more focused approach to development," he said.

Addressing the debate over the location of the SSDC headquarters, Dr. Okon strongly advocated for Akwa Ibom State. According to him, beyond political considerations, Akwa Ibom stands out as the most suitable host state due to its security stability, clean environment, and infrastructural readiness.

"In all fairness, Rivers State already hosts the NDDC headquarters. Akwa Ibom, with its zero-security concerns, serene environment, and excellent infrastructure, is the most strategic and deserving choice for the SSDC headquarters," he submitted.

Meanwhile, the signing of the SSDC Bill by President Tinubu has been widely applauded across the South-South, with many stakeholders optimistic that the commission will drive rapid infrastructural and human capital development in the region.