Ibadan Named Headquarters For South-West Development Commission

In a significant move for regional development in Nigeria, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate leader and representative of Ekiti Central Senatorial District, has announced that Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, will serve as the headquarters of the South-West Development Commission.

The senator revealed this on Monday during the distribution of 5,000 bags of fertilizer to farmers in Ado-Ekiti.

Senator Bamidele stated that the bill establishing the commission has successfully passed the National Assembly and is awaiting the approval of President Bola Tinubu, who is expected to sign it into law upon his return from an overseas vacation.

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He emphasized that the commission will be instrumental in fostering regional development and protecting the interests of all six South-West states, including Ekiti.

Bamidele said, “There is no controversy about it. Ibadan will be the headquarters, and the commission will ensure that the interests of Ekiti and other South-West states are well protected. Key positions, including a chairman, managing director, and four executive directors, will be shared among the states.”

Addressing recent claims that he is opposed to the idea of regionalism, Senator Bamidele dismissed the rumors as baseless, clarifying that no bill or memorandum regarding regional governance has been presented before the Senate.

“Let me make it clear that, as of today, there is no bill or memorandum on regionalism before the Senate for debate,” Bamidele said.

“The accusation that I am against regional government is fake news. The truth will prevail.”

The senator highlighted the collective efforts of himself and 17 other South-West senators in pushing for the passage of the South-West Development Commission Bill, adding that it would be contradictory for anyone to claim he is acting against the interests of the Yoruba people.

Bamidele also appealed for patience and understanding from Nigerians regarding the challenges facing the nation.

He urged citizens to support President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which aims to bring stability and progress to the country.

“Only when there is peace across Nigeria can every tribe and region experience true development,” he concluded.

The commission, once operational, is expected to serve as a catalyst for economic growth in the South-West, coordinating projects and programs that will benefit the entire region.