By Atlantic Reports

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has urged the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) to extend its work beyond administrative offices and deliver programmes that residents across the region can benefit from.

Kalu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on SEDC, also expressed satisfaction with progress on the commission’s headquarters project in Enugu State, according to a statement issued in Abuja on Monday.

The senator, who represents Abia North Senatorial District, said the committee would visit Enugu in December to assess further progress. He urged the commission’s management to sustain the pace of work.

“So far, we are making very good progress, unlike when we started. I am sure my colleagues and I are seeing serious progress,” he said.

His assessment was encouraging, but the statement did not specify the project’s completion level, cost, funding arrangements or expected delivery date.

For communities awaiting development interventions, Kalu said the commission’s presence must translate into programmes and projects beyond its headquarters.

He acknowledged that the commission was relatively new, while stressing the need for residents across the South-East to feel its impact.

Enugu Location Addresses Earlier Dispute

The former Abia governor recalled his disagreement with the commission over its decision to operate from Abuja rather than within the region it was established to serve.

“The only problem that I raised before, and I repeat, is that they cannot operate from Abuja. They must operate from where they are set up. This is where they are located,” he said.

Kalu said the inspection of facilities in Enugu had addressed his concern about the location of the commission’s offices.

“Our quarrel before was about being in Abuja and not in Enugu. So that quarrel is over now,” he added.

However, the statement did not clarify whether all administrative operations had moved to Enugu or whether the headquarters building was ready for full occupation.

The planned December assessment offers a further opportunity for the Senate committee to examine construction progress. Beyond the building, the commission’s public value will depend on the reach and results of its interventions in communities across the region.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.