SSDC Unveils 2026 Budget to Drive South-South Transformation
By Ekanem ASUQUO
The South South Development Commission (SSDC) has unveiled its 2026 Budget Proposal to the National Assembly, signaling a decisive shift toward results-driven and accountable development across the region. The announcement was made by the Commission’s Managing Director and CEO, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, during presentations before the Senate and House Committees on SSDC.
Ms. Akpabio emphasized that the budget represents a transition from foundational planning to structured project implementation, prioritizing transparency, measurable impact, and sustainable growth. She stressed that the South-South’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s economy must be matched with equitable and inclusive development.
“The South-South must not only generate national revenue. It must experience development proportional to its contribution, because when the region develops structurally, Nigeria advances sustainably,” Ms. Akpabio said.
The Commission outlined that the 2026 budget focuses on addressing critical infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural areas, improving electricity supply, enhancing access to quality healthcare, water provision, and education. It also builds on successful youth and women empowerment programs, digital skills initiatives, and support for micro, small, and medium-scale enterprises, which have generated employment and strengthened economic participation.
Looking ahead, Ms. Akpabio highlighted SSDC’s strategic roadmap for 2026 and beyond, including the establishment of industrial hubs, reinforcement of agricultural value chains, technology-driven projects, and close collaboration with local governments and community stakeholders to ensure efficient and transparent project execution.
The Senate session was presided over by Senator Benson Konbowei, Chairman of the Senate Committee on SSDC, while the House session was received by Hon. Julius Pondi, Chairman of the House Committee on SSDC.
Concluding her presentation, Ms. Akpabio stated that the 2026 budget is a blueprint to accelerate socio-economic development, strengthen governance, and reposition the South-South as a center of innovation, productivity, and regional transformation. She described it as a key step toward changing the narrative of the region and fully harnessing its strategic potential in Nigeria’s national growth.
