By Ismaila Jimoh, Abuja
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike has urged the board and management of the newly established South-South Development Commission(SSDC) to shun any form of political distractions, sentiments or external pressure that could prevent it from carrying out the mandate of the commission.
Wike gave this counsel when he received the Board and Management of the SSDC which was led by its Chairman, Prince Chinudom Nwuche and Managing Director, Ms Usoro Akpabio in his office in Abuja on Wednesday.
He warned that regional development agencies in the past collapsed under the weight of corruption, divided loyalties and poor leadership.
He said; “The development of your region depends heavily on your commitment. Too many people see an appointment as an opportunity to announce, ‘I have arrived.’ Many are not committed to the job. But the only way to justify your appointment, and make the President proud, is to work tirelessly to deliver the Renewed Hope Agenda”, he said.
He criticized the historical performance of interventionist agencies such as the NDDC, recalling how contractors “rushed in from Abuja with portfolios” while billions of naira yielded minimal impact.
“Don’t go and do streets that lead only to one person’s house. Don’t duplicate projects states or local governments are already doing. Go to the communities, ask them what their immediate needs are. Support the President fully. Don’t divide your loyalty. Your loyalty is to the President who appointed you”, he stated.
The FCT Minister, who acknowledged facing sustained political attacks since assuming office, said such pressures must never determine the integrity of public service.
He said; “I am here as Minister because I knew I could do the work. And yes, you will step on toes. But I’m not afraid as long as I’m doing the right thing”.
Wike urged the SSDC team to work as a cohesive unit, maintain discipline in project execution, avoid liabilities, resist pressures for undue contract awards and ensure fiscal responsibility.
“In the name of the South-South region, show a difference. Don’t make Mr. President think he made a mistake. Give him that happiness and go along with the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
Responding, Ms Akpabio assured the Minister that the Commission would not betray its mandate adding that her delegation came to strengthening institutional ties hoping it would deepen collaborations with federal MDAs and key stakeholders to ensure South South remains at the forefront of policy implementation and development planning.
“On behalf of the good people of the South-South Development Commission, be assured that we are fully committed to delivering on our mandate to drive regional development and economic growth,” she said, adding that the Commission would strengthen its liaison office in Abuja to ensure robust engagement with federal agencies, ” Akpabio assured.
