Igbo socio-cultural group teams up with South East Development Commission to boost regional economy

Ohanaeze Ndigbo and the South East Development Commission (SEDC) have embarked on a collaborative effort to foster sustainable economic growth and regional integration in the South-East, with a focus on creating opportunities to mitigate youth unemployment and social challenges.

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This partnership is being spearheaded by the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Council of Igbo Business Leaders, led by Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, with the goal of driving economic development and regional integration in the South-East.

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Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the Council of Igbo Business Leaders, emphasized the need for the Igbo people to prioritize investments in the South-East region, citing the region's history of neglect and its impact on the economy and social fabric.

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According to Ohuabunwa, the council's mandate encompasses identifying and mentoring young Igbo entrepreneurs, creating a unified voice for the business community, and promoting market development across the region, all aimed at driving economic transformation.

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Ohuabunwa stressed the importance of a stronger synergy between the council, the SEDC, and other stakeholders to achieve economic transformation in the South-East, expressing gratitude to Mr Mark Okoye for his prompt response and the approval of the meeting by the board and management.

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The council's primary responsibility, as outlined in its terms of reference, is to collaborate with governments and regional development agencies to advance economic growth and improve living conditions in Igboland, with a focus on supporting enhanced economic development.

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Ohuabunwa lamented the years of neglect in the South-East, which has contributed to rising youth unemployment and social problems, noting that the Igbo people have made significant contributions to the development of other regions in Nigeria.

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The council aims to guide Igbo investors seeking opportunities in the South-East, ensuring alignment with state governments' and the SEDC's investment plans and policies, to avoid misinformation and mischief.

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In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SEDC, Mark Okoye, thanked the council for the initiative and called for deeper collaboration to reposition the region economically, urging the council to leverage its business network and expertise.

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Okoye suggested that the council support investment mobilisation, diaspora engagement, venture capital development, small and medium-scale enterprises, capacity building, and policy advisory initiatives across the South-East, to drive economic growth and development in the region.