Senate committee starts work on South-West development, promises to fix key roads fast.
Leaders urge teamwork and focus to bring real progress to communities in the region.
The Senate Committee on the South-West Development Commission (SWDC) has officially commenced its oversight responsibilities, pledging to prioritize infrastructural rehabilitation, especially the rebuilding of critical roads across the South-West geopolitical zone.
The committee held its inaugural meeting on Tuesday at the National Assembly complex in Abuja. This milestone marks a new chapter in the federal government’s efforts to drive inclusive development and address long-standing infrastructure gaps in the South-West region of Nigeria.
Speaking during the session, Senator Yunus Abiodun Akintunde, who chairs the committee and represents Oyo Central Senatorial District, expressed his vision for a transformative agenda that would ensure effective governance and sustainable development through the activities of the Commission.
“Our aim is not just to function, but to deliver results that will leave a lasting impact on our communities,” Akintunde stated. “We are here to provide robust oversight functions that guarantee good governance within the South-West Development Commission. Our focus is on promoting economic prosperity, advancing social equity, developing infrastructure, and strengthening human capital.”
He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among committee members, noting that such collaboration would be essential for achieving meaningful outcomes. “Great achievements do not happen in isolation,” he added. “They are born out of unity, vision, and determination. I believe that we have the right people, the right purpose, and the right momentum to succeed.”
Akintunde further charged committee members to embrace open dialogue, mutual respect, and shared decision-making as they execute their duties. He said the inaugural meeting was not only symbolic but also a platform to outline values, establish clear priorities, and define a strategic work plan going forward.
The committee is also scheduled to begin screening the nominees for the board of the South-West Development Commission on Wednesday, marking another significant step toward operationalizing the Commission, which was established to fast-track the region’s development.
Contributing to the discussion, former governor of Ogun State and current senator, Gbenga Daniel, urged members of the committee to remain focused and disciplined in their work. He reminded them of the weight of public expectations surrounding the Commission and stressed the importance of fulfilling its mission.
“This Commission has long been the dream of our people,” Daniel remarked. “We must commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making it a reality. Now that it has come to life, we have a responsibility to ensure that it delivers. The people of the South-West expect real and visible change, especially in infrastructure development. Our role is to support the federal government by helping to bridge developmental gaps in our region.”
The nominees to be screened for the Commission’s board include Olubunmi Adetunmbi as Chairman and Charles Akinola as Managing Director. Other nominated board members are Bolaji Ariyo, Joseph Olugbenga, Scholastica Omoworare, Olumuyiwa Olabimtan, Adewinle Martins, Ibrahim Olaifa, Kabiru Lakwaya, Abdul Adamu, Arinola Fagbemi, Ukoha Onyekwere, Howell Ihenacho, Olugbenga Olufehinti, Tele Ogunjobi, Funmilayo Tejuosho, Lateef Ajijola, and Fatai Ibikunle.
As the SWDC gears up to become fully operational, stakeholders are optimistic that the Commission will play a pivotal role in addressing years of neglect and positioning the South-West as a hub for modern infrastructure and economic opportunity.
