The appointment of Dr Clifford Ogbede as the pioneer Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the newly established South East Development Commission (SEDC) has elicited joy and gratitude among Imo youths under the umbrella body of Ogbako Ngor Okpala Youths.
In a statement jointly signed by its National President, Engr. Henry Uzoma, and Secretary, Hon. Chinedu Opara, the group expressed their profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for what they described as a “clinical and fitting choice.”
The group pledged their unwavering support and loyalty to President Tinubu’s administration and assured him of their cooperation toward his 2027 re-election bid.
The statement reads in part: “It is with immense gratitude and happiness that we, members of Ogbako Ngor Okpala Youths, commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the magnanimous and well-considered decision to appoint one of our most revered leaders, Dr. Clifford Ogbede, as Executive Director of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Natural Resources in the South East Development Commission, SEDC.
“This historic decision signals the imminent takeoff of SEDC and marks a practical demonstration of the 3R mantra of Reconciliation, Rehabilitation, and Reconstruction for the South East post-civil war era. For Ngor Okpala LGA, this is a momentous achievement, being the first time the region has been considered for a significant federal position.”
The group hailed Dr. Ogbede as a “square peg in a square hole,” emphasising his track record of excellence in both public and private sectors, as well as his strong moral character and integrity.
The statement also extended gratitude to Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu for his pivotal role in facilitating the appointment, describing him as a leader of strong character who values past relationships while building new alliances.
The group concluded by pledging full cooperation with President Tinubu’s administration and urging the SEDC appointee to prioritise regional development, especially in addressing key challenges like infrastructure, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
