Society Gists

The Nigerian Senate on Tuesday, January 14, passed the harmonized version of the South West Development Commission (SWDC) Bill, writes Seunmnuel Faleye.

This marks a crucial step toward establishing a dedicated agency for coordinating development efforts in Nigeria’s southwestern region.

The bill, primarily sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel (APC-Ogun East), successfully merged versions from both chambers of the National Assembly – the Senate and House of Representatives – representing a unified approach to regional development planning.

The SWDC Bill aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision for regional development across Nigeria.

Once established, the Commission will serve as a specialized agency focused on addressing infrastructure gaps, economic development, and social advancement across the six southwestern states: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti.

The Commission’s mandate is expected to mirror similar regional development bodies like the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the North East Development Commission (NEDC), but with specific focus on the unique challenges and opportunities within the South West region.

Key aspects of the bill include: Establishment of a governing board with representatives from all southwestern states

Framework for coordinating development initiatives across the region

Mechanisms for funding regional infrastructure projects Strategies for promoting economic growth and social development

Plans for environmental protection and sustainable development The passage of this bill represents a collaborative effort by southwestern legislators across party lines, demonstrating unity in pursuing regional development goals.

According to legislative sources, the bill will proceed to President Tinubu for assent, after which the Commission can be formally established. Senator Gbenga Daniel, speaking after the passage, emphasized the bill’s potential impact on regional integration and development.

The former Ogun State governor has been instrumental in pushing the legislation through various stages of the legislative process.

This development comes as part of a broader national trend of establishing regional development commissions to address specific geographical needs and challenges across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.