**Senate Gives Thumbs Up to ₦140 Billion Budget for South East Development Commission** In a move that could be a game-changer for the South East region, the Senate has expressed its full support for the ₦140 billion budget proposal for the South East Development Commission (SEDC) in 2026. The proposal, presented by the Commission's Managing Director, Mr. Mark Okoye, aims to drive development in the region through infrastructure renewal, industrialisation, and private sector-led growth. According to the breakdown of the budget, ₦106.745 billion will be allocated to capital expenditure, while ₦25.955 billion will go towards recurrent expenditure, excluding personnel costs. The remaining ₦7.3 billion will cover personnel costs. The Commission has outlined five strategic pillars for the 2026 budget: infrastructure development, economic empowerment, environmental sustainability, social development, and security/peacebuilding. One of the key goals of the Commission is to establish a South East Investment Corporation (SEIC), which will drive a $150 billion capital base and position the region as Africa's preferred investment destination. The Commission is targeting a $1 billion regional investment threshold and plans to structure major infrastructure projects to attract international financing. The lawmakers, however, expressed concerns about security and erosion ravaging the region. Senator Tony Nwoye stressed that without security, development efforts would not yield meaningful results. He demanded clarity on how the ₦2.5 billion Regional Security Programme would translate into visible improvements, especially in areas severely affected by insecurity. The Senators also raised concerns about spending priorities and measurable impact. The proposed budget includes allocations for various programmes, including the Community Social Development Programme, the South East Venture Capital Fund, and the Youth Entrepreneurship Programme. The lawmakers will be keenly watching how these programmes are implemented and the impact they have on the region. The South East region has been plagued by security challenges, including kidnappings, cultism, and banditry. The region has also been affected by erosion, which has led to the displacement of communities and damage to infrastructure. The ₦140 billion budget proposal is a significant step towards addressing these challenges and driving development in the region. As the Commission works to implement the 2026 budget, it will be crucial for them to provide regular updates on the progress of the programmes and projects. This will help to build trust with the people of the South East and ensure that the region is on the path to sustainable development. In conclusion