A former federal legislator, Sam Onuigbo, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in the South-East region, saying he should be encouraged to do more.

In an interview with journalists in Umuahia on Friday, Mr Onuigbo commended Mr Tinubu for signing the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) bill into law.

He described the SEDC as a “gift to the South-East” that would help repair damage caused by the civil war and empower the people through education.

“I think Tinubu has done well in the South-East; his efforts deserve to be recognised, encouraged, and commended,” he said.

The former legislator acknowledged efforts by previous leaders in the region but argued that none had surpassed Mr Tinubu’s achievements.

Mr Onuigbo, who represents the South-East on the Board of the North-East Development Commission, said the region had been waiting for the SEDC opportunity for over 54 years since the end of the civil war.

He praised Mr Tinubu for his efforts in nation-building and urged the people to recognise and encourage his efforts.

“We were fortunate during the eight years of President Olusegun Obasanjo to have had five Senate presidents from the South-East. We also had a deputy Senate President for 12 years and, of course, a deputy speaker.

“However, in spite of these, we were unable to secure a specific commission focused on addressing the devastation of the civil war.”

Mr Onuigbo emphasised that Mr Tinubu’s signing of the SEDC bill, sponsored by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and other legislators, was a significant development.

He further highlighted Mr Tinubu’s achievements in the region since assuming office on May 29, 2023, including the appointment of a service chief and support for a deputy speaker, as well as other appointments.

“We are having a lot of other appointments coming from him, so, when someone is doing well, what you do is encourage them to do even more,” he said.

(NAN)