In a bold move to advance sustainable development within its first 100 days, the leadership of the South East Development Commission (SEDC) has engaged with key figures from the Organised Private Sector in the region. The high-level dialogue, aimed at fostering collaboration, aligns with SEDC’s ambitious goal of building a $200 billion economy by 2035.
During the engagement, The Managing Director/CEO Of the South East Development Commission, SEDC Mr Mark Okoye II unveiled the Commission’s strategic roadmap after which they received critical feedback from private sector leaders. The discussions pinpointed accelerated industrialization as a cornerstone of growth, with a pressing need for gas pipeline infrastructure identified as a top priority. SEDC emphasized the importance of treating the South East as a unified economic bloc, advocating for an enhanced ease of doing business to unlock the region’s potential.
A key outcome of the meeting was SEDC’s commitment to regular consultations with the private sector. These ongoing interactions will ensure that the commission’s strategies remain responsive to the needs of businesses, shaping priority interventions to bolster economic growth. SEDC also pledged to work closely with State Governments to provide the private sector with the support necessary to flourish.
The Enugu State Government played a pivotal role in the engagement, with the Honourable Commissioner for Trade, Investment, and Industry, Mrs. Adaora Chukwu, representing the state. Her participation and insights were instrumental in enriching the dialogue. SEDC also extended appreciation to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria for its steadfast partnership. Mathew Alao, Senior Government Adviser, stood in for UNDP Resident Representative Elsie Attafuah, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to the region’s development.
This landmark engagement marks a significant step forward in SEDC’s mission to drive economic transformation, with collaboration at its core. As the commission continues to refine its approach, the South East’s private sector is poised to play a central role in achieving the $200 billion economic vision by 2035.
