The South East Communities Development Association (SECDA), a socio-economic advocacy group dedicated to addressing infrastructural decay and perceived marginalization in Nigeria’s South East, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to expedite the release of funds already approved in the national budget for the South East Development Commission (SEDC). The group emphasized that the release of these funds is crucial for the Commission to fulfill its mandate and begin tangible development projects in the region.
SECDA commended President Tinubu for signing the bill establishing the SEDC into law shortly after assuming office, describing it as a hopeful step toward correcting long-standing imbalances in national development. However, the group lamented that nearly two years after the inauguration of the SEDC board, the Commission has yet to receive the necessary funding to commence operations. This, they said, has created a worrying gap that undermines the enthusiasm and confidence initially expressed by the people of the South East.
In an open letter jointly signed by its National Director, Engr. Isidore Ehochi; National Secretary, Barr. John Chukwu Obasi; and Legal Adviser, Barr. Chijioke Emenalo, SECDA called for the President’s urgent intervention. The association, representing over 2,000 autonomous communities across the South East, urged Tinubu to demonstrate his administration’s commitment to equity and inclusive development by ensuring that the funds allocated to the SEDC are promptly disbursed.
The letter acknowledged the significance of the SEDC’s establishment as a major milestone in addressing the region’s developmental challenges. SECDA also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, through Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, during its regional conference held in Enugu on May 31, 2025. However, the group expressed concern that communities filled with high expectations are growing increasingly discouraged by the continued delay in implementing the commission’s projects.
According to SECDA, critical areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment remain neglected, and the absence of funding is stalling progress. The association warned that the prolonged delay could erode public trust and portray the administration’s promises as insincere. It urged President Tinubu to ensure that the SEDC does not become another example of abandoned government initiatives, stressing that the region’s faith in his leadership remains strong.
Concluding the letter, SECDA expressed optimism that the President, guided by his “Renewed Hope Agenda,” would act swiftly to release the funds. The group affirmed its belief that with adequate resources, the South East could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s overall growth and development. SECDA reiterated its hope for a prompt and favorable response, emphasizing that timely action would rekindle confidence, inspire progress, and reaffirm the federal government’s commitment to fairness and national unity.