AN OPEN LETTER TO MARK OKOYE – PIONEER MD/CEO, SOUTH EAST DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Dear Mark,
Once again, congratulations on your well-deserved appointment as the pioneer MD/CEO of the South East Development Commission. Your track record in public service over the past decade speaks volumes, and I have no doubt that you will rise to the occasion.
That said, let’s be honest, many of our people, especially the youth, have little faith in this commission. Given the history of similar bodies like the NDDC, skepticism is understandable. But I choose to believe otherwise because I know you. You are a game-changer, a leader with the vision and drive to defy expectations. However, to make a real impact, you must be bold. You must be intentional. And above all, you must be different.
As someone deeply invested in the future of Alaigbo, I have a few thoughts to share. Some of these we’ve discussed privately, but I believe they deserve a place in the public domain for the sake of posterity. I have been criticized for celebrating your appointment, but that’s because I see what many others don’t. So here’s my candid advice:
1. Win the Trust of Ndigbo, At Home and Abroad
To achieve any meaningful progress, you must rally Ndigbo worldwide behind this commission. See yourself not just as an administrator, but as a governor of the Igbo people. Engage with pro-Igbo groups, both local and in the diaspora and not just to hear their grievances, but to assure them that change is possible. Give them a reason to believe.
2. Rebrand Alaigbo to the World
Perception matters. Too many people outside the South East have a distorted view of our region, and this has hindered investment, tourism, and even national integration. You must prioritize rebranding. Engage a top-tier PR firm to reshape how Alaigbo is perceived. Let the world see us for who we truly are, a land of enterprise, culture, and boundless potential.
3. Build Infrastructure that Unites Us
Nothing strengthens a people more than shared prosperity, and connectivity is key. Focus on infrastructure that binds us together, i.e interstate roads, railways, gas pipelines, etc. Foster collaborations among South East governors to execute joint projects that will serve the collective interest of Ndigbo. We are strongest when we work together.
4. Rethink Youth Empowerment
The reality of Nigeria today is starkly different from what it was a few years ago. Small, tokenistic interventions will not cut it. Instead of spreading resources thin by giving 5,000 young people ₦1m each (which often leads to waste), why not empower 100 serious businesses with ₦20-50m each? These businesses can, in turn, create 5-10 sustainable jobs. Partner with organizations like the Tony Elumelu Foundation to ensure these enterprises receive mentorship and guidance. Let’s build real wealth, not just hand out stipends.
5. Invest in Data Collection
Accurate data is the backbone of effective governance. The South East lags behind in National Identity Number (NIN) enrollment, with less than 10 million registered. This is unacceptable. Partner with NIMC and launch a massive enrollment drive. We cannot afford to be invisible in the national data space.
6. Be Bold, Be Lean, Be Accountable
My MD (as I fondly call you), this role will test your courage and resolve. You must resist the urge to build a bloated bureaucracy. Run the leanest possible team. Ensure that every kobo allocated to this commission delivers real impact. If you must choose between political convenience and genuine progress, choose progress, always.
A Final Word
Mark, the destiny of Alaigbo and the realization of its full potential rest, in part, on your shoulders. I believe in you, and I will continue to support you in any way I can. May wisdom guide your decisions, and may history remember you as the man who dared to make a difference.
Your friend and brother,
Jack The Builder ❤️
