Senate confirms Akpabio as SSDC MD, unveils full board appointments

The Nigerian Senate has officially confirmed Ms. Usoro Akpabio as the Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), marking a significant step toward accelerating development in Nigeria’s oil-rich South-South region.

The confirmation came during Thursday’s plenary session, which was presided over by Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau. It followed the presentation and adoption of the Senate Committee report on the SSDC, delivered by Senator Benson Konbowei (PDP – Bayelsa Central), Chairman of the Committee on the South-South Development Commission.

Alongside Ms. Akpabio, the Senate also confirmed Rt. Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, as Chairman of the Commission. Both appointees received widespread commendation for their leadership records and commitment to national development.

The full list of newly confirmed SSDC board members includes:

• Rt. Hon. Larry Odey (Cross River)

• Charles Zuofa (Bayelsa)

• Dr. Nkereuwem Ebong (Akwa Ibom)

• Engr. Chika Chinda (Rivers)

• Femi Oise (Edo)

• Dr. Charles Enukhowhate (Delta)

• Thabita Ilia Sallah (North East)

• Alhaji Yusuf Rasaq Amao (North Central)

• Hon. Bukola Braimoh (South West)

• Joseph Mmamal (South East)

The Senate also confirmed the Commission’s executive leadership:

• Marcus Eji (Executive Director, Projects – Rivers)

• Aganaba Steven (Executive Director, Social and Human Capital Development – Bayelsa)

• Timi Ayibatonye (Executive Director, Corporate Services – Delta)

• Joseph Ugheoke (Executive Director, Commercial and Environmental Development – Edo)

• Ambassador Sony Abang (Executive Director, Finance – Cross River)

The establishment of the SSDC is seen as a critical move to address longstanding development challenges in the South-South, with an emphasis on infrastructure, human capital, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment.

In addition to the SSDC appointments, the Senate also confirmed:

• Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi as Chairman of the South-West Development Commission

• Cosmas Atighir as Chairman of the North-Central Development Commission

• Thompson Oludare as Managing Director of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC)

• Kabir Katata as Executive Director, NDIC

However, the nomination of Tijani Kaura, expected to represent the North-West in one of the regional commissions, was not confirmed. The Senate Committee noted that Kaura failed to submit required documents and was absent from his screening. He may still be considered if he complies with the committee’s requirements.

Ms. Akpabio’s confirmation as Managing Director signals the start of a new era for the South-South region. With a full leadership team now in place, the SSDC is expected to begin operations focused on security, regional stability, and inclusive growth.