ABUJA – The Chairman, House Committee on South-South Development Commission, Rep. Julius Pondi (APC-Delta) has reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th National Assembly to inclusive legislative process to meet the aspirations of all Nigerians.
Pondi gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja at the resumption of public hearing on a Bill for an Act to amend the South-South Development Commission Act (2025) to provide for additional funding for the commission and other related matters.
“The House of Representatives remains firmly committed to legislative process that is transparent, consultative and responsive to the aspirations of Nigerian,” he said.
According to Pondi, public hearings are an indispensable component of lawmaking that provides a platform for all stakeholders to present perspectives and enrich legislative deliberations.
He said the bill seeks to expand the commission’s sources of funding to enable it to discharge it functions more effectively and to facilitate sustainable development of the South-South region.
Pondi said the South-South geo-political zone occupied a strategic position in Nigeria’s economy, contributing significantly to national revenue through petroleum production, maritime commerce, industrial activities and other productive sectors.
“Yet, the zone continues to contend with serious developmental challenges that require sustained institutional intervention and adequate financial supports.
“The objective of today’s resumed hearing is therefore to ensure that the committee benefits from the widest possible range of expert opinions, technical submissions and stakeholder perspectives before making its recommendations to the house.
“We are particularly interested in receiving constructive contributions on the proposed funding framework, its sustainability, its potential implications for government and industry and any alternative proposals that may further strengthen the objectives of the legislation.
“I wish to assure all participants that the committee approaches this assignment with an open mind; every memorandum submitted and every presentation made, whether in support of or against any aspect of the bill, will receive careful consideration.
“Our overriding responsibility is to ensure that the legislation emerging from this process is balanced, equitable, practicable and capable of advancing the developmental aspirations of the South-South zone while safeguarding the broader national interest,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to bring their expertise, practical experience and recommendations to enrich the enactment of a legislation that commands broad public confidence.(NAN)
