On Thursday, the Nigerian Senate took a significant step towards enhancing socio-economic growth in the South West region by passing the South West Development Commission Establishment Bill 2024.
The bill successfully completed its third reading during a plenary session, following a detailed report by Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties.
Senator Kaka emphasized that the bill is thoughtfully designed to foster development in the region. If signed into law by the President, the South West Development Commission will be established, paralleling existing regional commissions. This new commission will be funded through the federation account as well as contributions from development partners, aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits and environmental challenges in the South West.
After a thorough clause-by-clause review, the Senate approved the bill for its final reading.
Senate Deputy President Barau Jibrin, who presided over the session, commended Senator Kaka and his committee for their diligent efforts. He expressed optimism that the commission would effectively tackle infrastructure and ecological issues in the South West, complementing the broader national development initiatives.
Jibrin also noted that President Bola Tinubu had previously sanctioned similar commissions for other regions and is anticipated to endorse this bill, thereby furthering the development agenda across Nigeria.
