JUST IN: President Tinubu Replaces South East Development Commission Chairman, Restructures Board

In a move to strengthen the leadership of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a revised list of nominees for the Commission’s board. The changes include the replacement of the chairman and a significant reshuffle of executive directors, signaling the administration’s commitment to the region’s development.

Dr. Emeka Nworgu has been nominated as the new chairman, replacing Hon. Emeka Atuma. Alongside this change, President Tinubu expanded the executive team, naming five executive directors instead of the initial three. Notably, Donatus Eyinnah Nwankpa has been removed from the board.

Hon. Mark C. Okoye retains his position as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, maintaining continuity in leadership. The board itself has grown to 16 members, an increase of one from the original list.

Among the key appointments, Stanley Ohajuruka now serves as the executive director for finance, succeeding Anthony Ugbo. Toby Okechukwu has been named executive director of projects, replacing Obinna Obiekweihe, while Chief Sylvester Okonkwo takes over as executive director of corporate services from Dr. Daniel Ikechukwu Ugwuja. Additionally, two new executive directors without specific portfolios, Chidi Echeazu and Dr. Clifford Ogbede, have joined the board.

Several nominees from the original list have been retained, including Barr. Ugochukwu H. Agballah, Hon. Okey Ezenwa, Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Barr. Ifeanyi Agwu, Nasiru Usman, and Hamma Adama Ali Kumo. Other returning members are Edward David Onoja, Orure Kufre Inima, and Chief (Mrs.) Joke Adebayo-Chukwuma.

All appointments remain subject to Senate confirmation.

President Tinubu has expressed confidence in the new nominees’ ability to deliver on the Commission’s mandate, which focuses on promoting sustainable development and fostering growth in the South East region. As pioneers, the appointees are expected to bring innovation and expertise to their roles, laying the groundwork for a prosperous future in the region.