The senate has withheld the confirmation of Tijani Yahaya Kaura, nominee representing the north-west on the board of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), over his failure to appear before the screening committee.
On Thursday, the red chamber confirmed Chibudom Nwuche as chairman of the commission, and Usoro Offiong Akpabio from Akwa Ibom as managing director.
The confirmation followed the presentation of the report by the committee on the SSDC, chaired by Benson Konbowei, senator representing Bayelsa central.
Konbowei said the committee conducted a “thorough” screening of the nominees and found them qualified and fit for office, in line with section 13 of the SSDC Establishment Act, 2025.
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“They submitted all security clearances and fulfilled obligations described by the Code of Conduct,” he said.
“They had no adverse petitions filed against them and are in good standing for the roles for which they are nominated. They also demonstrated a clear understanding of the commission’s mandate.”
However, the committee did not recommend Kaura for confirmation.
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“Kaura was not cleared due to failure to submit required documents and appear before the committee for screening,” Konbowei said.
“As for the rejected nominee, we wish to still see him. The committee stands and we may wish to still see him whenever he is ready to appear before the committee.”
Other confirmed members of the board include Larry Odey (Cross River), Charles Zuofa (Bayelsa), Nkereuwem Ebong (Akwa Ibom), Chika Chinedu (Rivers), Femi Oise (Edo), and Charles Sylvester Enukhowhate (Delta).
The senate also confirmed Tabitha Iliya Sallah (north-east), Yusuf Rasaq Amao (north-central), Joseph Mmamal (south-east), and Bukonola Braimoh (south-west).
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Executive directors confirmed include Marcus Nie Eji (projects), Aganaba Preye Steven (social and human capital development), Timi Alari Ayibatonye (corporate services), Joseph Ugheoke (commercial and environmental development), and Sony Abang (finance).
President Bola Tinubu submitted the list of nominees for screening in May 2025.
