SEDA Demands Review of Southeast Commission's 2026 Budget

The Southeast Development Agenda (SEDA), led by Executive Director Mark Okoy, has expressed significant concern regarding the proposed 2026 budget allocation of 140 billion Naira for the Southeast Development Commission. In a press statement made available in Umuahia, SEDA called for an immediate review of the budget, highlighting disproportionate allocations towards administrative overhead and recurrent expenditures, which they believe overshadow direct capital projects that could transform the region.

The group criticized the unclear allocation for security and the lack of transparency in budget details. They urged the establishment of an independent citizen oversight committee comprising various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and private sector representatives, to monitor project implementation and budget performance.

SEDA emphasized the need for a comprehensive reassessment of the budget to prioritize capital infrastructure and investments that would stimulate economic growth and job creation in the Southeast region.