The Nigerian Senate has approved the South-West Development Commission Establishment Bill 2024, advancing it to the third reading on Thursday. However, while the bill was welcomed, the Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, emphasized that what the country truly needs is restructuring and the devolution of powers to ensure true federalism.
Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, explained that the commission aims to promote socio-economic development in the South-West region. If established, it would receive funds from the Federation Account and other sources to address infrastructural deficits and ecological challenges in the region.
Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin praised the bill’s passage, noting it mirrors similar zonal commissions aimed at fostering nationwide development.
Afenifere, through its Deputy Chairman, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, stressed that while the commission is a positive step, dismantling the centralized system and devolving power to federating units remains critical for the nation’s prosperity.
