From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
The Managing Director of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has announced the readiness of a ₦500 billion regional infrastructure pipeline designed to transform the South East through strategic investments in industry, agriculture, housing, and power.
Speaking at the National Convention of the Anambra State Association, USA (ASA-USA) held in Tampa, Florida during the weekend, the SEDC chief executive said the initiative represents the most ambitious regional development framework in decades one that moves the South East from fragmented efforts to coordinated, sustainable growth.
He disclosed that the SEDC, in collaboration with the newly incorporated South East Investment Company (SEIC), has concluded designs for several transformative projects under the ₦500 billion infrastructure pipeline, emphasizing that implementation will focus on unlocking regional productivity and attracting large-scale private investment.
“We now have the legal mandate, the financial instruments, and the political will to rebuild Ala Igbo sustainably.
“This is not politics it is structure. For the first time since 1970, the Federal Government has created a dedicated institution for our region, and we must seize this moment to translate vision into measurable impact,” he declared.
The SEDC boss explained that the infrastructure plan will drive development across key value chains by connecting industrial estates, agro-processing zones, regional transport networks, and power infrastructure to create a single, integrated production ecosystem for the South East.
He noted that the new economic roadmap was developed through extensive stakeholder engagement involving state governments, private sector leaders, and the diaspora community, with over 3,500 volunteers and experts contributing to the design process.
Beyond infrastructure, he outlined several complementary programs such as the Michael Okpara Fellowship, the South East Venture Capital Program, and targeted youth and vocational initiatives, which he said are designed to build the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and public sector leaders.
Reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to collaboration, the Managing Director called for a deeper partnership between SEDC, state governments, and the diaspora, particularly in project financing and technical support.
“No single state can execute projects of this magnitude alone”.
“That is why the SEDC and SEIC are structured to bridge vision and execution bringing in private capital, diaspora bonds, and development finance to move Anambra and the entire South East from plans to prosperity,”He explained.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for signing the SEDC Bill into law and approving the incorporation of the SEIC, describing these actions as “a clear demonstration of faith in the potential of the South East and its people.”
Calling on the diaspora to take possession of the region’s transformation, he urged them to invest, mentor, and contribute to the ongoing effort to reposition the South East as a hub of power, productivity, and innovation.
“The South East will rise again not through agitation, but through imagination. Not by shouting at Nigeria, but by building within it,” he said to a standing ovation.
Okoye concluded saying;
“If our children are to inherit a South East defined by power, dignity, and pride, history must record that the foundation was laid by us here, now, in our time. The future of Ala Igbo is no longer a wish; it is a work in progress that will strengthen both our region and our nation.”
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