South-South Development CommissionCommences Maiden Regional Tour in Bayelsa State
The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, commenced its maiden regional tour across the six South-South states with a high-level courtesy visit, stakeholders’ engagement, and project inspection in Bayelsa State.
The SSDC delegation, comprising the Chairman of the Board, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Usoro Akpabio, FRSA, FCE, Board Members, and Executive Directors, was received by His Excellency, Governor Douye Diri, alongside members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council.
The visit marks the beginning of a strategic consultation initiative aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Governments of the South-South states and ensuring that the Commission’s interventions align with each state’s development priorities.
Speaking on behalf of the Board and Management, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to partnering with state governments to deliver sustainable, inclusive, and people-centred development. She noted that the SSDC was established to complement state development efforts by aligning Federal Government interventions with state priorities rather than duplicating existing initiatives.
As part of the visit, the SSDC delegation undertook an inspection of key projects across Bayelsa State, providing the Commission with first-hand insight into the State’s development priorities and identifying strategic areas where SSDC can support and complement ongoing efforts.
Discussions focused on infrastructure development, human capital development, youth and women empowerment, environmental sustainability, renewable energy, the blue economy, gas-based industrialisation, ICT and digital innovation, investment promotion, and community development.
Governor Douye Diri welcomed the Commission’s decision to commence its regional tour in Bayelsa State and expressed confidence that the SSDC would play a transformative role in advancing development across the South-South. He encouraged the Commission to work closely with the Governors of the region in identifying and implementing impactful projects that address the needs of the people.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Chairman of the SSDC Board expressed appreciation to Governor Douye Diri and the Government of Bayelsa State for the warm reception and productive engagement. He assured the Governor of the Board’s commitment to working collaboratively with the Bayelsa State Government and the Governors of the South-South region in advancing the Commission’s mandate.
The Bayelsa engagement is the first in a series of strategic visits to the Governors of the South-South states as the Commission deepens stakeholder consultations, strengthens partnerships, and develops interventions tailored to the priorities of each state.
The maiden regional tour underscores the SSDC’s commitment to collaborative governance, strategic partnerships, and inclusive regional development, laying the foundation for a stronger, more prosperous, and economically integrated South-South region.
GALLERY

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