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24/10/2025

𝐒𝐒𝐃𝐂, 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐞 𝐏𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐀𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐄𝐧𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐞𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐞𝐮𝐦 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐀𝐜𝐭

Abuja, October 23, 2025: The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the effective implementation of the Abandonment, Decommissioning, and Environmental Remediation Funds (A&D/ERF) established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), 2021, describing the initiative as a statutory and moral responsibility toward restoring the environment of the South-South region.

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Ms. Usoro O. Akpabio, joined the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on South-South Development Commission, Hon. Julius Pondi, and other key stakeholders during an interactive session on Thursday at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja. The engagement focused on addressing the persistent non-implementation of the environmental and decommissioning funds mandated by the PIA.

Ms. Akpabio commended the Committee for its proactive oversight, noting that the South-South region; Nigeria’s oil-producing heartland, has borne the brunt of environmental degradation for decades despite its central role in sustaining the national economy. She stressed that the SSDC, established by an Act of Parliament in 2025, has a clear statutory mandate to coordinate sustainable development, environmental protection, and remediation across the six South-South states.

Citing relevant provisions of the law, she explained that Sections 8(1)(h) and 9(1)(f) of the South-South Development Commission Act, 2025, empower the Commission to develop and implement environmental protection measures, as well as to collaborate with key regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), and the Federal Ministry of Environment on environmental management and remediation efforts.

“This legal alignment between the SSDC Act and the Petroleum Industry Act underscores one fact; the South-South Development Commission must be integrated as a statutory partner in the operationalization of the Abandonment, Decommissioning, and Environmental Remediation Funds,” Ms. Akpabio stated.

She noted that, despite clear provisions under Sections 232–242 and 103–104 of the PIA mandating oil companies to set aside funds for decommissioning and cleanup, there has been no public evidence of operational escrow accounts, contributions, or disbursements since the Act came into effect. The situation, she said, reflects institutional fragmentation, poor coordination among regulatory agencies, and the exclusion of the SSDC from the fund management process, despite its regional mandate and community engagement capacity.

Ms. Akpabio described the consequences of this neglect as severe, citing over 2,000 identified spill sites, widespread destruction of mangrove ecosystems, loss of livelihoods in fishing and farming communities, and increased public health risks. She warned that continued inaction undermines the spirit of the PIA, the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government, and Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan (ETP 2060).

To address these gaps, the SSDC proposed a tripartite framework between the NUPRC, NMDPRA, and SSDC to establish a “South-South Window” within the A&D and ERF structures. Ms. Akpabio recommended that the arrangement be formalized through a memorandum of understanding within 90 days, enabling the SSDC to coordinate regional projects, ensure transparent fund deployment, and align remediation activities with community development priorities.

She also called for the creation of ring-fenced Central Bank of Nigeria escrow sub-accounts for assets located in the South-South, the launch of a Public Environmental Accountability Dashboard for real-time transparency, and the integration of remediation financing with Green Bonds, ESG-linked investments, and partnerships with multilateral institutions such as UNEP, UNDP, World Bank, and AfDB.

According to Ms. Akpabio, effective environmental recovery in the Niger Delta aligns with global sustainability commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 6, 13, 14, and 15) and should be treated as part of a broader climate justice agenda. She urged the Federal Government to lead an International Donor Compact to support the South-South region’s environmental rehabilitation.

“The operationalization of the Abandonment, Decommissioning, and Environmental Remediation Funds is not just a statutory obligation; it is a moral duty to restore the dignity, health, and livelihoods of the people who have sustained Nigeria’s energy wealth for generations,” Ms. Akpabio declared.

She reaffirmed SSDC’s readiness to collaborate with all relevant agencies, the National Assembly, and international partners to ensure that the next chapter of Nigeria’s petroleum story is written in restoration, inclusion, and renewal rather than pollution and neglect.

21/10/2025

SSDC AND LPV TECHNOLOGIES PARTNER TO ACCELERATE CLEAN ENERGY ACCESS IN SOUTH SOUTH

The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has taken a major step towards achieving energy access across the region with the commencement of its Regional Energy Agenda through a planned partnership with LPV Technologies, a foremost Nigerian solar manufacturing company.

The partnership was initiated during a working visit by a SSDC delegation, led by its Managing Director, Ms Usoro Akpabio to LPV Technologies’ state-of-the-art, fully automated, and AI-integrated solar manufacturing plant in Ikotun, Lagos, on Monday.

This initiative, which follows recent engagements between the SSDC and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), seeks to accelerate the deployment of clean energy solutions across the South-South region.

It is strategically aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Nigeria’s policy framework promoting local content participation in renewable energy manufacturing.

During the visit, the SSDC delegation was warmly received by the Chairman of Levene Energy, parent company of LPV Technologies, Mr. Nzan Ogbe, and his management team, who conducted an extensive tour of the advanced solar production facility. The visit showcased Nigeria’s growing industrial capability in renewable energy manufacturing and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in technology transfer, human capital development, and regional expansion.

Following extensive discussions, both parties agreed to work closely in key areas such as rural electrification, community-based solar projects, and the establishment of logistics and distribution hubs across the South-South to improve access to clean energy components. The partnership will also includes a strong focus on youth empowerment, as SSDC and LPV Technologies will jointly develop specialized training and skills transfer programmes aimed at building local expertise in solar technology. This component is expected to promote employment, innovation, and technical self-reliance among young people in the region.

The collaboration further underscores a shared commitment to advancing Nigeria’s local content objectives by strengthening indigenous manufacturing capacity, reducing import dependence, and contributing to the nation’s economic diversification drive. LPV Technologies’ business model anchored on local sourcing, automation, and innovation was commended as a practical example of how domestic industry can drive sustainable growth and support the stability of the Naira through value-added production.

Speaking during the visit, Ms Usoro Akpabio described the engagement as a highly productive milestone in the Commission’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable energy access and inclusive regional development.

She emphasized that the partnership will represent a concrete demonstration of SSDC’s transition from planning to action in implementing its clean energy agenda.

“This partnership represents a concrete demonstration of our shift from planning to action,” Ms Akpabio said. “Through strategic collaboration with credible private sector partners such as LPV Technologies, we are working to deliver reliable and affordable electricity to communities across the South-South while promoting local manufacturing, job creation, and value addition to the national economy.”

Ms Akpabio reaffirmed the SSDC’s commitment to the Federal Government’s clean energy transition and local content development policies, noting that sustainable partnerships such as this will not only enhance energy access but also foster innovation, youth empowerment, and environmental resilience.

In his remarks, Mr. Nzan Ogbe, of LPV Technologies, lauded the SSDC’s proactive approach and pledged his company’s full support for the success of the initiative. He stated that LPV Technologies remains dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s renewable energy manufacturing capacity through the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, local sourcing, and continuous capacity development.

The visit is one of the SSDC’s recent moves to build enduring partnerships with key national agencies and private sector stakeholders in order to deliver on its mandate of driving sustainable development in the South-South.

18/10/2025

Late Mrs. Roseline Inam was a Woman of Faith, Strength, and Industry - Gov Eno

It was a moment of reflection and gratitude to God at the Cenotaph, Eket Township Stadium, as the Akwa Ibom State Governor, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., joined family, friends, and dignitaries to honour the life and legacy of Late Mrs. Roseline Bethel Inam (nee Hart), mother of respected legal icon, Mkpisong Barr. Inam Wilson, SAN, who passed on at the age of 83.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, the Governor described the late matriarch as “a woman of deep faith, remarkable industry, and compassion whose life of service and devotion continues to inspire those she left behind.”

“Until her transition at the age of 83, Mama lived an impactful life - one distinguished by her unwavering faith in God, uncommon industry, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of others. She was a devoted mother whose moral strength, love, and compassion left an enduring impact on her family and all who knew her,” Governor Eno stated.

The Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to Barr. Inam Wilson and the entire family, praying that God would comfort them and grant the soul of their beloved mother eternal rest.

In his remarks, Barr. Inam Wilson, SAN, expressed deep gratitude to the Governor for his presence and words of comfort, describing his late mother as “the epitome of the product of the management talent, a woman who used all the talents God gave her to make great impact. That's a legacy.”

“Everything I have become today, I owe largely to my mother’s discipline, counsel, and foresight. Managing a large household with twelve children and several relatives, she exemplified exceptional managerial skills, courage, and grace. In honour of her memory, I have compiled a book titled "The Inspirational Life of Mrs. Bethel Inam (Nee Hart) 1941 - 2025" that captures her story and the indelible impact she made,” he said with emotion.

Delivering the sermon, the officiating minister, Pastor (Dr.) Tom Harry of Christ Embassy, reminded the congregation of the fleeting nature of life and the eternal value of living purposefully.

“Life is transient. Every life leaves a footprint. The question is - what footprint will yours be? When the trumpet sounds, what will be your testimony before God?" Drawing his Bible references from the books of Eccl. 12:7, 1Thess. 4:13, and Rev. 14:13, the clergyman admonished all to live faithfully and plan for eternity.

The well-attended funeral service drew an array of dignitaries from within and outside the State, Members of the State Executive Council, the legal community, top government officials, traditional and community leaders, friends and associates of the Inam family, all gathered to celebrate a woman remembered for her faith, service, and enduring legacy.

17/10/2025

𝐒𝐒𝐃𝐂 𝐒𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐄𝐌𝐀 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡-𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧

Abuja, October 16, 2025 – The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has expressed its readiness to partner with the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to enhance disaster preparedness, response, and resilience across the South-South region.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, the Managing Director of the SSDC, Ms. Usoro Akpabio commended NEMA for its consistent and life-saving efforts in disaster management and humanitarian response nationwide.

“Your work has saved lives, restored hope, and brought stability to countless communities in times of crisis,” the SSDC boss stated. “For us at the South-South Development Commission, this meeting is both timely and strategic, as our region continues to grapple with recurrent flooding, coastal erosion, oil spills, and communal displacements.”

She emphasized that such disasters have far-reaching socio-economic impacts, disrupting livelihoods, destroying farmlands, and impeding sustainable development in the region.

Highlighting the importance of institutional collaboration, the SSDC Managing Director noted that no meaningful development can thrive in an environment of constant emergency, and therefore called for stronger synergy between both agencies in key areas such as:
• Flood and environmental management through early warning systems and community preparedness;
• Joint emergency response to oil spills and related environmental crises;
• Support for internally displaced persons through improved shelter and livelihood restoration;
• Capacity building for local and state emergency agencies; and
• Data sharing and disaster mapping for improved coordination and planning.

To formalize the partnership, she proposed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between SSDC and NEMA, and the establishment of a Joint Technical Committee to drive implementation.

In her response, the Director-General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar, welcomed the initiative and affirmed the Agency’s commitment to working closely with the SSDC in advancing disaster resilience and sustainable development in the South-South region.

She outlined NEMA’s ongoing programs, including the training school at the University of Port Harcourt, where young people are being trained as first responders to emergencies within their communities.

Mrs. Umar, however, identified logistical and terrain challenges, such as bad roads, weak communication networks, and inadequate staffing in some State Emergency Management Agencies (SEMAs), as key obstacles to effective disaster response. She therefore urged the SSDC to encourage state governments to strengthen their SEMA offices and promote frequent environmental sanitation exercises to ensure waterways remain clear of refuse.

The NEMA DG further advised that response efforts should not only focus on the distribution of relief materials but also address the root causes of disasters through infrastructural development and collaboration with relevant agencies such as the River Basin Authorities, Ministries of Water Resources, and Environment.

She cautioned against compromising Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports and stressed the importance of seeking the developmental plans of states before embarking on projects to prevent encroachment into areas unsuitable for human habitation, which could worsen environmental degradation.

Both agencies reaffirmed their shared commitment to safeguarding lives, restoring livelihoods, and building resilient communities across the South-South region through a coordinated, data-driven, and sustainable framework for disaster management.

17/10/2025

‼️NEWS UPDATE‼️

*Gov Eno’s ARISE Agenda Unpacking the Good for the People — Info Comm*

*…Hails Unprecedented Human Development Drive at PGF Strategy Meeting in Borno*

🎈The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Aniekan Umanah, has said that Governor Umo Eno’s administration is setting a new benchmark in human development and social impact through the implementation of the ARISE Agenda, which is transforming lives and communities across the state.

🎈Speaking at the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) Quarterly Strategy Meeting of Honourable Commissioners for Information from APC-governed states, held from October 15–16, 2025, at the Borno State Government House, Maiduguri, Umanah said Governor Eno’s people-focused programmes are “unpacking the good” for Akwa Ibom people in every sector of the economy.

🎈He explained that the Governor’s deliberate focus on human capacity building, enterprise growth, and social inclusion has produced measurable results reflected in Akwa Ibom’s Human Capital Development Index. According to him, thousands of citizens have benefited from direct empowerment initiatives, equipment support, and enterprise acceleration programmes, while hundreds of persons with disabilities have been reached through the Disability and Special Assistance Commission.

🎈Umanah said these life-touching interventions are complemented by compassionate social welfare programmes, including the ARISE Compassionate Homes, which provide modern, fully furnished houses for indigent families across the 31 local government areas; the Free Food Distribution Programme under the Bulk Purchase Agency; and the Elderly Support Scheme, which ensures regular stipends and care for senior citizens. He added that the State’s Health Insurance Scheme now guarantees affordable healthcare coverage for thousands of residents, while the Bursary Scheme for Students has provided vital financial relief for Akwa Ibom undergraduates.

“These programmes are changing lives, building futures, and restoring hope,” Umanah said. “Governor Umo Eno’s leadership approach is anchored on compassion, empowerment, and shared prosperity. The ARISE Agenda is not just policy—it is a living framework for social renewal and economic transformation.”

🎈The Information Commissioner further noted that these human-centred initiatives are being implemented side by side with massive infrastructural developments across the state. He disclosed that the administration has already delivered and commenced work on over 964 kilometres of roads, as well as model primary and secondary schools, modern health centres, and other projects aimed at strengthening the social and economic fabric of Akwa Ibom communities.

🎈He commended the Progressive Governors Forum for creating a strong platform for peer learning and communication synergy among Information Commissioners, describing it as “a vital bridge between policy communication and governance delivery.”

🎈The two-day strategy session, themed “FGN–PGF Synergy 2025: One Message, One Future,” focused on harmonising communication strategies, strengthening coordination, and deepening collaboration between the Federal Government and APC-governed states.

🎈At the end of the meeting, the Commissioners reaffirmed their support for the Progressive Governors, commending their visionary leadership in steering their states through challenging socio-economic conditions while sustaining people-oriented governance. They endorsed the National Value Reorientation Campaign and pledged to domesticate it across APC states to promote civic responsibility, patriotism, and ethical conduct.

🎈A Monitoring and Evaluation framework was also adopted to promote evidence-based communication and measure the impact of media strategies across the states.

🎈The Commissioners expressed appreciation to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for hosting the meeting, and to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, for his insightful contributions.

17/10/2025

Abass Charges SSDC Management On Cooperation With State Governments For Development

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has charged the management of the South South Development Commission (SSDC) on the need to work closely with state governments in the region, inorder to avoid duplication of projects and interventions.

Abbas gave the charge when he received in courtesy, the management of the SSDC led by its Managing Director/CEO, Ms Usoro Akpabio in his office in Abuja.

The Speaker commended the Management and Board of the SSDC for their early show of purpose and unity, emphasising the need for the Commission to "work closely with state governments in the region and avoid duplication of roles, noting that collaboration and coordination will be key to achieving meaningful impact."

According to Abass, " let me advice the management on the need to prioritize prudence, accountability, and integrity, because these are the pillars upon which enduring institutions are built.

“The foundation you lay today will determine the future of the Commission. Learn from the experiences of others, build strong partnerships, and ensure that your programmes deliver tangible dividends to the people through impactful projects that will accelerate development and empowerment across the region,” the Speaker stated.

Earlier in her speech, the Managing Director/CEO expressed deep appreciation to the Speaker for his warm reception despite his tight schedule, describing him as “regionally friendly, youth-focused, and gender-sensitive.”

She noted that the visit was primarily to express gratitude for the Speaker’s pivotal role in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, which birthed the South-South Development Commission, and to officially inform him of the Commission’s readiness to commence full operations across the six states of the South-South region.

Akpabio noted that the SSDC’s mandate is anchored on driving regional economic transformation through human capital development, healthcare, education, social services, youth and women empowerment, infrastructure renewal, waterways, environmental sustainability, blue-marine economy, agro-industrial growth, regional stability for peace and conflict resolutions.

She assured the Speaker of the Commission’s readiness to operate on the principles of accountability, transparency, integrity, and prudence, while seeking his continued guidance and legislative support in the discharge of its duties.

“The SSDC stands today as a testament to the visionary legislative leadership of the National Assembly under your amiable self and the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. Your steadfast support for regional commissions demonstrates a deep commitment to balanced development and equitable opportunities for all regions of our nation,” she stated.

The visit follows a similar engagement recently paid to the President of the Senate, where the SSDC Management expressed appreciation for his role in actualizing the establishment of the Commission and reaffirmed its commitment to the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The courtesy call to the Speaker reaffirms the Commission’s resolve to build strong institutional ties with both chambers of the National Assembly and other stakeholders, in pursuit of a prosperous and inclusive South-South.

16/10/2025

HISTORIC MILESTONE ACHIEVED AS FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, IDIDEP MATRICULATES 583 PIONEER STUDENTS

The Federal College of Education (FCE), Ididep, on Wednesday, inaugurated its academic operations with the maiden matriculation of five hundred and eighty-three (583) pioneer students.

The event, held on the college's campus, was a confluence of Nigeria's educational and political elite, gathered to witness the birth of a new citadel of learning in Akwa Ibom State.

The Pioneer Provost, Dr. Edem Ntuk, in his inaugural address, welcomed the gathering and celebrated the actualization of what he described as a "long-awaited dream."

He detailed the college's foundation, having been established by the Federal Government in May 2023, and outlined its academic structure, which comprises six Schools and twenty departments offering the National Certificate in Education (NCE).

"Today, I am happy to announce that a total of 583 students have been offered admission into our College for the 2024/2025 Academic year," Dr. Ntuk stated, assuring the new students and stakeholders of his administration's deep commitment to making FCE Ididep "a model College of Excellence in Nigeria."

He pledged to provide a congenial atmosphere for scholarship and research, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to excel in their professions.

The Provost extended profound gratitude to the key figures instrumental in the college's establishment.

He specifically thanked the Federal Ministry of Education, the National Commission for Colleges of Education (NCCE), and TETFund. He also placed on record the institution's appreciation for former President Muhammadu Buhari, who approved the college's establishment, and the Akwa Ibom State Government, which provided the land.

A special tribute was paid to Senator (Dr.) Ita Solomon Enang, OFR, whom Dr. Ntuk credited for his pivotal contributions and for providing initial scholarships for indigenes.

Echoing this sentiment, Senator Ita Enang, widely recognized as the vision bearer for the college, delivered a Goodwill message filled with nostalgia. He spoke glowingly of the roles played by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former President Muhammadu Buhari, highlighting the cross-administrative collaboration that brought the project to fruition.

The historic event also featured goodwill messages from the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ubong Umoh, who brought the felicitations and support of Governor Umo Eno.

The Executive Chairman of Ibiono Ibom LGA, Rt. Hon. Asuakak Umoh, and the Paramount Ruler of the area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Ime Inyang Udousoro, also addressed the gathering, pledging the support and hospitality of the host communities.

The ceremony was further graced by a strong showing of academic solidarity from sister institutions. Notable figures in attendance included the Registrar of the Federal University of Technology, Ikot Abasi (FUTIA), Dr. Offiongita Nkang; the Provost of the Federal College of Education, Ofeme-Ohuhu, Abia State, Dr. Titus S. Ezeme; and the Deputy vice-chancellor( Academic), University of Uyo, Prof. Sr. Anthonia Essien. The Member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Hon. Moses Essien, was also present.

The climax of the ceremony was the administration of the matriculation oath by the College Registrar, Mr. Nsemeke Udoakpan, who led the 583 students in swearing allegiance to the rules and regulations of the college, thereby formalizing their status as bona fide members of the academic community.

The event, witnessed by other principal officers of the college including the Bursar, Mr. Samuel Oyighocho, and the Librarian, Dr. Celina Nongo, successfully launched the academic journey of the pioneer students and the institution itself, signaling a new chapter for teacher education in Nigeria.

15/10/2025

𝐒𝐒𝐃𝐂, 𝐍𝐄𝐋𝐅𝐔𝐍𝐃 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡 𝐄𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡-𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐡

The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) aimed at empowering youths across the region through education financing and clean energy initiatives.

During an engagement with NELFUND’s management in Abuja, the Managing Director of SSDC Usoro Akpabio underscored the synergy between both agencies, emphasizing that youth empowerment and education are central to the region’s development strategy.

“Our power revolution in the South-South depends on more than just infrastructure, it depends on our people,” she stated. “We are ensuring our youths are financially empowered by linking skills acquisition in the renewable energy sector with the financial support provided by NELFUND.”

The SSDC boss commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for prioritizing youth-centered development, noting that the collaboration will enable young people to access affordable loans for education and skills trainingparticularly in renewable energy and digital innovation.

In his remarks, NELFUND’s Managing Director, Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, reaffirmed the Fund’s readiness to partner with SSDC, clarifying that the student loan scheme currently applies to undergraduates in public tertiary institutions. He explained that funds are disbursed through schools after verification, with ₦20,000 monthly welfare stipends paid to eligible students.

Sawyer added that NELFUND welcomes collaborations for scholarship and empowerment initiatives, hinting at future privatization to expand its reach while maintaining its core mission of supporting Nigerian students.

The SSDC had earlier unveiled plans to electrify all rural communities in the South-South through renewable energy projects in partnership with the Rural Electrification Agency (REA). The initiative aims to bridge the region’s energy gap and stimulate economic growth by powering agricultural clusters, schools, and health centers.

Together, SSDC and NELFUND are positioning the South-South region as a hub for clean energy, education-driven growth, and sustainable youth empowerment.

The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) has announced a strategic partnership with the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) aimed at empowering youths across the region through education fi…

14/10/2025

Press Release

AKWA IBOM GOVERNOR TO LAUNCH TREE CROP REVOLUTION,NOVEMBER
…VISITS AKADEP OFFICE IN UYO

Poised to launch the Tree Crop Revolution in November 2025, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D today, directed that Akwa Ibom State Agricultural Development Programme ( AKADEP) which was formerly an agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture, now becomes a stand- alone agency under the supervision of the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

He has also directed the immediate overhaul and remodeling of infrastructure in the premises.

The Governor made this known while conducting an unscheduled inspection of the facilities at the AKADEP premises in Uyo.

The Tree Crop Revolution was announced recently by the Governor.

The programme which is to be managed by the Akwa Ibom State Agriculture and Food Security Committee, is headed by Professor Okon Ansa, a former Commissioner of Agriculture in the State with other members including Prof. Trenchard Ibia, also a former Commissioner for Agriculture in the State.

The Tree Crop Revolution is aimed at expanding palm oil production with high yield varieties and in the process help create generational wealth for the people of Akwa Ibom State, especially those in the rural communities and ultimately return us as a premier palm oil producing state in the nation.

The Committee will now operate from the premises of AKADEP and will work closely with the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to ensure the successful launch of the programme in November across all the ten Federal Constituencies.

The facility is expected to among other things house the nursery for palm fruits that will be distributed to farmers in the ten Federal Constituencies while the Agriculture and Food Security Committee, will be on hand to off-take the produce during harvesting.

AKADEP is expected to attach at least two extension workers to each of the farms in the ten Federal Constituencies.

Signed
Ekerete Udoh
CPS to the Governor
14/10/25