Okonkwo Samuel
The Nigerian Senate today confirmed the appointment of Hon. Mark Okoye II as the first Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the South East Development Commission (SEDC). This appointment follows President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s earlier nomination of Mr. Okoye, the Managing Director of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPPA).
Hon. Mark Okoye, widely celebrated as a trailblazer in public service, brings to the role an impressive portfolio. He served as Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning under the immediate-past administration in Anambra State and previously as Senior Special Assistant in the same capacity, distinguishing himself as one of the youngest political appointees in Anambra’s history.
The newly established South East Development Commission was conceived to address the developmental challenges of the South East region, promote sustainable economic growth, and tackle the historical legacies of the Nigerian Civil War. The commission also aims to serve as a catalyst for infrastructural transformation and economic revitalization, ensuring a secure and prosperous future for the region.
Joining Hon. Mark Okoye in the commission are Hon. Emeka Atuma, who will serve as Chairman, and an array of esteemed individuals, including Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah, Hon. Okey Ezenwa, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Hon. Donatus Eyinnah Nwankpa, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu (Ph.D.), Nasiru Usman, and Hamma Adama Ali Kumo.
Additional nominees include Edward David Onoja, Orure Kufre Inima, and Chief (Mrs.) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma. Prince Obinna Obiekweihe will assume the role of Executive Director (Projects), Sen. Anthony O. Agbo will serve as Executive Director (Finance and Administration), and Dr. Daniel Ikechukwu Ugwuja will oversee Corporate Services as Executive Director.
The confirmation of Hon. Mark Okoye II has been met with widespread acclaim, with congratulatory messages pouring in from across the country. The people of Ifitedunu, his hometown, have honored him with the title “Ebubedike II,” reflecting their pride in his accomplishments and the promise his leadership holds for the South East.
With the Senate’s confirmation, the South East Development Commission is now poised to begin its mission of transforming the region into an economic hub and addressing the lingering challenges of development and social cohesion.
