South-South Development Commission amendment has prompted fresh calls for stronger funding, tougher accountability measures and wider stakeholder participation after a public hearing on proposed changes to the law.
The South-South Development Commission amendment was welcomed by Rivers State governorship candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Angel Lawson, who said lawmakers should use the review to build a more effective development agency for the Niger Delta.
Lawson argued that the Commission needs a sustainable funding model instead of relying on uncertain sources. He urged lawmakers to empower the agency to raise long-term infrastructure bonds that can finance major projects, attract private investment and boost economic growth across the region.
However, he warned that increasing funding without stronger oversight could encourage waste and abandoned projects. Therefore, he called for mandatory independent annual audits, quarterly financial and project reports, transparent procurement, a public project monitoring portal and stricter legislative oversight backed by sanctions.
In addition, Lawson said stakeholder engagement should continue beyond public hearings. He proposed a legally recognised Stakeholders Advisory Council made up of host communities, traditional rulers, women and youth groups, civil society organisations, academics and private sector representatives. According to him, the Commission should also publish responses to recommendations from stakeholders to strengthen public trust.
Furthermore, Lawson said the South-South Development Commission amendment offers lawmakers an opportunity to reshape development in the Niger Delta through stronger governance, transparent management and meaningful citizen participation.
He maintained that the people of the Niger Delta deserve a development commission that delivers measurable improvements in infrastructure, environmental restoration, economic opportunities and human development. He expressed hope that the final legislation will reflect those priorities and create a stronger framework for sustainable regional development.
