The Senate has passed the South West Development Bill after its third reading, following a report submitted by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Special Duties, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan.

Lawan noted that once the commission is established by presidential assent, it will, like other development-oriented commissions, receive funding from the Federation Account, as well as donations from development partners, to address infrastructure deficits and ecological challenges in the South West region.

Initially read for the second time in February 2024, the bill is designed to oversee the management of funds allocated by the Federal Government for capital projects across the South West.

The commission will also be responsible for the construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of roads, houses, and other damaged infrastructure in the region. Additionally, it will address ecological and environmental issues, further promoting the socioeconomic development of the South West states.