A Vision for Development in the South-East
Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, has called on the people of the South-East to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign. He emphasized that the region is experiencing a significant transformation under the current administration, marked by tangible progress in various sectors.
At the inauguration of the Renewed Hope Partners in Ukwa West Local Government Area of Abia State, Kalu highlighted the positive changes taking place in the South-East. He pointed out that developments in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, education, and federal appointments are becoming more visible. The establishment of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) stands out as a major milestone. This commission, set up in July 2024 with a governing board, aims to build a $1bn regional asset base as part of the government’s “Triple-R” agenda.
Kalu also spoke about the resumption of the Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail corridor, which connects key cities such as Aba, Onitsha, Enugu, and Nsukka. This project is expected to generate over N50bn in annual trade. Additionally, the construction of critical gas pipeline infrastructure across the region is underway, further boosting economic activities.
Under the SEDC, the President has approved a N150bn South-East Investment Company to accelerate industrialization. The proposed Lekki–Aba–Onitsha–Maiduguri Road Corridor is another initiative aimed at enhancing logistics and commerce in the area.
“Our region is beginning to feel the touch of inclusion, investment and renewed hope,” Kalu said. “This administration is deliberately ensuring that the South-East takes its rightful place in the national journey of growth.”
Grassroots Implementation and Ongoing Projects
Kalu announced plans to establish Renewed Hope Councils in every local government area of the South-East. These councils will work alongside the SEDC to support the grassroots implementation of federal projects.
Other ongoing projects include federal housing schemes under the Renewed Hope Cities & Estates. One such site is located in Bende, Abia State, as part of the target to build 100,000 homes. The development of the Anambra Gas Basin is also underway, with the potential to position Anambra and Abia as major energy hubs.
The expansion of the AHL and ANOH gas processing plants in Imo State is another significant development. This includes a 23.3-kilometre ANOH-OB3 pipeline, which is projected to add 500 million scf/day, representing a 25% increase in national gas supply. Similarly, the NCDMB NOGaPS Industrial Parks in Abia and Imo are operational, enabling local manufacturing of oil and gas equipment.
Energy and Transportation Initiatives
The rollout of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) initiative across major transport routes in Onitsha, Aba, and Enugu is expected to save up to N2tn monthly in fuel imports. This initiative is a step towards reducing dependence on imported fuels and promoting cleaner energy solutions.
In the agricultural sector, the Federal Government has allocated land in Abia, Ebonyi, and Enugu for large-scale farming under its 10-million-hectare scheme. Fertilizer and mechanized equipment are being supplied through partnerships with the U.S., Belarus, and Brazil to support cassava, rice, and palm oil value chains.
Education and Skills Development
Education is another area where the administration is making strides. About N45.6bn has already been disbursed in student loans to beneficiaries in the South-East, with an additional N50bn expected from recovered funds. Plans are also underway to establish Renewed Hope Skills Centres in Abia and Anambra to support artisans and apprentices.
Kalu reiterated that the Tinubu administration has shown a clear vision for the development of the South-East. He urged residents of the region to unite in supporting the President, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in building a brighter future for the South-East and Nigeria.