The Senate has clarified that it, and not state governors, was responsible for approving N25 billion of the N140 billion budget for the South East Development Commission (SEDC) for 2026.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, the SEDC board chairman, explained that the funds were appropriated directly by the National Assembly as part of efforts to accelerate development projects in the South-East region.
Kalu emphasized that the commission’s funding structure does not depend on contributions from state governors. Instead, the Senate’s intervention ensures that critical infrastructure, social programs, and regional development initiatives can proceed without delay.
He added that the remaining N115 billion of the 2026 SEDC budget will be sourced through regular government allocations, grants, and internally generated revenues, stressing transparency and accountability in fund management.
The clarification comes amid reports attributing the extra funding to governors, which Kalu described as inaccurate. Observers say the disclosure highlights the National Assembly’s active role in regional development planning and oversight.
