The Nigerian Senate has reopened debate on establishing the South-South Development Commission, a bill initially suspended in July due to concerns about duplicating the Niger Delta Development Commission’s (NDDC) functions.
Nearly 10 senators now support the bill, arguing it will focus on development, unlike the NDDC, which is resource-based. Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, sponsor of the bill, represents Cross River South.
However, some lawmakers, including Senator Karimi (Kogi West), oppose the bill, suggesting Kogi’s inclusion in the NDDC instead. The deputy Senate President proposes renaming the NDDC to include other oil-producing states like Bauchi and Kogi.
The bill passed its second reading and was referred to the Committee on Special Duties, with a report due within a week.
