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…says no fund paid for Enugu headquarters rehabilitation, pledges full disclosure of records by June 23

By Gloria Ikibah

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability and full cooperation with the National Assembly, following its appearance before the Senate Committee on the South East Development Commission.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Commission said it used the oversight session to provide detailed briefings on its finances, operational activities, procurement procedures, institutional growth, strategic partnerships and ongoing programmes across the South-East.

According to the Commission, the Senate Committee requested additional documentation relating to certain aspects of its operations and expenditure. It said it welcomed the request and sought a short period to compile and submit the required records.

“Following discussions, proceedings were adjourned to a later date pending submission of the requested documents, which the Commission will provide on or before 23 June 2026,” the statement said.

The Commission also addressed issues that have generated public discussion in recent days, particularly expenditure linked to its Abuja Liaison Office and references to what has been described as “implied expenditure”.

Abuja Liaison Office Explained
SEDC said the expenditure associated with its Abuja Liaison Office covered the establishment and operation of a fully furnished office at the Congress Building in Maitama, Abuja.

The Commission explained that the facility serves as its operational base for engagements with the National Assembly, federal ministries and agencies, development finance institutions and strategic partners.

“The expenditure cited reflects the cumulative cost of establishing and running the office since its inauguration on 11 February 2025 to date, covering rent, operational costs, utilities, and basic fit-out works across that entire period”, the statement read.

The Commission added that its board and management remain committed to relocating to its designated headquarters in Enugu as soon as possible.

According to the statement, rather than incur the cost of acquiring a new property, the Commission secured the transfer of an existing building from the Enugu State Government and entered into an agreement with the state to accelerate rehabilitation works and facilitate its relocation.

Clarification on ‘Implied Expenditure’
Responding to reports about so-called “implied expenditure”, SEDC said the references relate to a contract awarded for the rehabilitation of its future headquarters in Enugu.

The building, it noted, was transferred by the Enugu State Government but requires extensive work before it can serve as the Commission’s permanent headquarters.

It further clarified that the expenditure being discussed represents approved financial commitments rather than actual payments.

“The contract was awarded in accordance with the Public Procurement Act 2007, following approval by the Bureau of Public Procurement and the concurrence of the supervising ministry.

“These commitments represent budgeted obligations that have been lawfully committed but not yet disbursed, consistent with established public sector financial management practice. To be precise: this money has not left the Commission’s accounts,” the Commission stated.

Capital Funds Yet to Be Released
SEDC disclosed that it has not received any funding from its capital budget allocation.

Despite this, it said efforts have continued to advance strategic development initiatives across the region while laying the institutional groundwork required for future project implementation.

The Commission noted that spending so far has focused on two key areas: building its operational structure and advancing project development activities that would ordinarily be financed through capital releases.

“It is worth recalling that the Commission received its first disbursement of funds after more than ten months of being in existence,” the statement further said.

The Commission explained that institutional expenditure has included payment of staff salaries and arrears, training for seconded personnel, establishment of operational offices in Abuja and Enugu, and procurement of essential information and communications technology infrastructure.

Project Development and Regional Initiatives
On programme implementation, SEDC said it has financed feasibility studies and due diligence exercises for priority regional projects, including a proposed gas infrastructure partnership with significant economic and industrial implications for the South-East.

The Commission also highlighted its participation in the Intra-African Trade Fair in Algeria, which it said has opened discussions with Afreximbank on establishing a Project Preparation Fund aimed at reviving dormant industries across the region.

Other initiatives cited include the South East Vision 2050 Stakeholder Forum and the South East Venture Capital Programme.

According to the statement, the venture capital initiative has already provided investment support to 25 start-ups drawn from across the South-East.

Records to Be Submitted
SEDC assured the Senate Committee that comprehensive records would be submitted before the next hearing.

Reiterating its commitment to openness and accountability, the Commission said it remains focused on its mandate of driving economic transformation, infrastructure development, investment mobilisation and regional prosperity across the South-East.

“The Commission will submit comprehensive documentation, including procurement records, contract details, payment schedules, and supporting financial records, to the Senate Committee on or before 23 June 2026.

“The Commission remains focused on that mandate and is confident that a full review of the facts and supporting documentation will provide a complete picture of its activities and stewardship of public resources,” the statement added.

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By Gloria Ikibah

Proceedings grew animated during debate on a motion by Rep. Jimi Benson seeking a precise definition of “cognate legislative experience” in the House Standing Orders.

Presenting the motion, Benson said the aim was to strengthen institutional memory and ensure experienced leadership within the chamber.

“The House notes that Order 7, Rule 15… states that only members with cognate legislative experience as members of the House of Representatives shall be eligible for appointment as principal officers of the House,” he said.

He added that global parliamentary best practice supported reserving principal offices for seasoned lawmakers to promote continuity and competence.

“The House resolves to define cognate legislative experience as meaning members who have completed at least one full four-year term.

“Resolves to state unequivocally that there is no other definition to the term cognate legislative experience other than as stated”, he stated.

While the motion was seconded and adopted by voice vote, some members raised concerns about its necessity.

Rising on a point of order, Rep. Bob Solomon argued: “Order 7, Rule 1, Sub-Rule 10 has already conferred on you the power to interpret the rules. You are there as an arbiter. This motion is totally redundant.

“What it means is that we are amending our rules for you to be able to exercise that power… You are in the position of a judge, an arbiter. What you say about the rules is final.”

In response, the Speaker maintained that once a question had been put and decided, it could not be revisited.

“After hitting the gavel, we cannot revisit any issue that has already been put to question,” he ruled, drawing the matter to a close.

With the day’s agenda concluded, the House adjourned after setting in motion legislative processes that could reshape price regulation, military pensions, and internal parliamentary governance.

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By Gloria Ikibah

Binani Air has marked its first 30 days of commercial operations, describing the milestone as a significant step in a journey built on vision, resilience and a commitment to transforming air travel in Nigeria.

The airline, which commenced commercial flights a month ago, in a statement said its early operations have been characterised by positive passenger feedback, successful flight schedules and growing confidence among industry stakeholders.

Reflecting on the airline’s first month, Group President Aminatu Dahiru Chiroma said the experience had been both rewarding and humbling.

According to her, while passengers often see only the take-off and landing of aircraft, every successful flight is backed by years of preparation, training, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

She said: “The first 30 days have been both humbling and inspiring.

“What people do not see are the countless hours of training for their engagement, operational readiness, certification processes, and strategic planning that make each flight possible. For us, these 30 days represent much more than flights operated. They represent the fulfillment of a vision conceived long before the first aircraft left the runway.”

She noted that the encouraging response from travellers, aviation partners and industry observers has reinforced confidence in its long-term objectives.

For Chiroma, however, the most memorable aspect of the airline’s first month has been the personal stories behind the passengers it serves.

Recalling the airline’s inaugural flight, she described the moment as deeply emotional, and that the experience highlighted the broader role aviation plays in connecting families, businesses and opportunities.

“There is something deeply moving about seeing people board an aircraft carrying not just luggage, but expectations, aspiration, and trust.

“Aircraft transport passengers physically, but what they truly carry are dreams, relationships, and opportunities”, she added.

Binani Air entered one of Nigeria’s most demanding industries after securing its Air Operator Certificate from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority on 18 March 2026.

Chiroma acknowledged the enormous challenges involved in establishing an airline, particularly in a highly regulated sector where operational standards must be met without compromise.

Rather than viewing those requirements as obstacles, she said the airline embraced them as the foundation for long-term success.

“There were obligatory requirements, operational certifications, personnel training, infrastructure readiness, technical preparations, and extensive stakeholder engagement.

“Our philosophy has always been simple: build carefully, build responsibly, and build for the long term”, she stated.

The Group President also paid tribute to the founder Senator Aishatu Dahiru Binani, whom she credited with providing the vision and determination that brought the project to fruition.

“Building an airline anywhere in the world is a formidable undertaking. Building one in Nigeria requires an even greater measure of resilience, foresight, and commitment.

“From the earliest days of this journey, she demonstrated unwavering belief in the possibilities of creating an airline that will not only compete, but also contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s aviation sector.

“We could never have come this far without his prayers, advice, and encouragement. At every stage of the work, we see the fruits of his prayers and remain grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of being his children.

“What excites us most is seeing passengers become ambassadors for the brand. They are sharing their experiences with friends, family members, and colleagues. That kind of endorsement cannot be purchased. It is earned through service.

“We are building an airline that places people at the center of every decision.

“We are not merely selling tickets, we are creating experiences built on trust, reliability, and genuine care for our customers”, Chiroma emphasised.

Reflecting on lessons from the first month, she said the experience had reinforced the importance of teamwork and shared purpose.

As the airline looks beyond its first month of operations, management says it remains focused on consolidating its gains while laying the foundation for future growth.