By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Southeast Development Youth Stakeholders Forum (SEDYSF), a coalition of youth groups from Nigeria’s southeastern region, has called on President Bola Tinubu to appoint Senator Rochas Okorocha as Chairman of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC).

The group described Okorocha as the best candidate to lead the commission in addressing the region’s socio-economic and infrastructural challenges.

The appeal was made during a press briefing held in Abuja, where SEDYSF President Comrade John Uba, Secretary Ambassador Ugokwe Ugokwe, and member Onyewuchi Onyewuchi addressed journalists.

The group emphasized Okorocha’s extensive experience in public service and leadership, highlighting his track record of development-oriented initiatives as essential for steering the SEDC.

According to SEDYSF, the Southeast is grappling with significant challenges, including infrastructure deficits, economic disparities, and social injustices, despite its rich resources and talented populace.

The group also commended President Tinubu and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for their roles in the creation of the SEDC, describing it as a milestone in regional development.

They noted that the commission represents a renewed hope for the Southeast’s future and a significant step toward strengthening national unity.

The group urged Okorocha to accept the position if appointed, expressing confidence in his ability to attract investments, address regional challenges, and foster development. They reaffirmed their support for Tinubu’s administration and praised its commitment to national development.

The Southeast Development Commission, recently signed into law, is expected to serve as a platform for coordinating development initiatives across the region, addressing critical challenges, and promoting unity and prosperity.

“Our region is blessed with vast resources, talented individuals, and a rich cultural heritage.

“However, we also face significant challenges, including infrastructure deficits, economic disparities, and social injustices. It is time for strategic leadership, and we believe Rochas Okorocha is the man to steer the SEDC in the right direction.

“As Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, he successfully united stakeholders and advanced policies that improved governance and political stability across Nigeria.

“In the spirit of love for his people, we passionately plead with Senator Okorocha to take up this responsibility. His leadership is crucial to ensuring the SEDC achieves its mission of transforming the Southeast,” they appealed.