Senator Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East, took the lead during the second reading of the South West Development Commission (Establishment) Bill, 2023 (SB 68) at the Nigerian National Assembly.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Daniel and co-sponsored by Senators representing various constituencies across the South West Geo-Political zone, aims to establish a commission dedicated to the development of the region.
In his address to the assembly, Senator Daniel highlighted the importance of the bill, emphasizing its role in addressing the infrastructural deficits and environmental challenges faced by the South West region.
He stressed the need for a holistic approach to tackle issues such as coastal erosion and security concerns, particularly in coastal and riverine areas of Ondo and Ogun states.
The proposed South West Development Commission would be tasked with managing funds allocated by the Federal Government for the construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other critical infrastructure in the region.
Additionally, the commission would address ecological problems and other developmental challenges specific to the South West states.
Senator Daniel outlined the key provisions of the bill, which include the establishment and functions of the commission, its structure, staffing, financial provisions, and miscellaneous provisions.
He urged his colleagues to support the bill, highlighting its potential to accelerate the development of the South West and improve the lives of its residents.
“The South Western part of Nigeria, made up of Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, and Oyo states, is a melting pot with most all ethnic groups of Nigeria living in peace and harmony,” he stated.
In accordance with Order 76 (3) of the Senate Standing Orders 2023, Senator Daniel attached the financial implications of the bill for consideration by the assembly. He concluded his submission by expressing gratitude to the 10th National Assembly for their leadership and called for bipartisan support in passing the bill.
Other co-sponsors of the bill include Sen. Bamidele, Opeyemi Michael (Ekiti Central); Sen. Adaramodu, Adeyemi Raphael (Ekiti South); Sen. Oluwole, Fasuyi Cyril (Ekiti North); Sen. Adebule, Idiat Oluranti (Lagos West); Sen. Adetokunbo, Abiru Mukhail (Lagos East); Sen. Eshinlokun, Wasiu Sanni (Lagos Central); Sen. Adegbonmire, Adeniyi Ayodele (Ondo Central); Sen. Jimoh, Ibrahim Folorunsho (Ondo South); Sen. Ipinsagba, Emmanuel Olajide (Ondo North); Sen. Salisu, Shuaib Afolabi (Ogun Central); Sen. Olamilekan, Adeola Solomon (Ogun West); Sen. Akintunde, Yunus Abiodun (Oyo Central); Sen. Buhari, Abdulfatai Omotayo (Oyo North); Sen. Alli, Sarafadeen Abiodun (Oyo South); Sen. Olubiyi, Fadeyi Oluwole (Osun Central); Sen. Fadahunsi, Francis Adenigba (Osun East); and Sen. Oyewumi, Kamorudeen Olalere (Osun West).
The bill was referred to Senate committee on Special Duties to report back in four weeks.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
