By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

The South South Reawakening Group (SSRG) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu over funding concerns for the South South Development Commission (SSDC), warning that inadequate financial support could hinder the agency’s take-off.

In a statement issued on Friday in Yenagoa, SSRG Convener, Joseph Ambakederimo, described the 2026 budgetary provision for the commission as insufficient and urged the Federal Government to ensure timely release of funds.

The SSDC, established in March 2025 following approval by the National Assembly in October 2024, is mandated to drive development across the South-South region.

Ambakederimo said prompt and adequate funding would enable the commission to commence operations effectively and deliver on its mandate.

“Timely release of funds to the commission for project execution will help stabilise its operations and support early progress in infrastructure development across the region,” he said.

He noted that the commission is expected to focus on key sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, education, transportation, industrial development, housing, water and sanitation, power supply, and communications infrastructure.

The SSRG convener also highlighted ongoing environmental and ecological challenges in the region, noting that effective intervention would require sustained investment.

He cautioned that delays or shortfalls in funding could slow the commission’s activities and limit its impact.

Ambakederimo expressed optimism that with adequate financial backing, the commission would contribute to economic growth and improved living standards in the South-South region.