By Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed three significant bills – the South-West Development Commission Bill, the South-South Development Commission Bill, and the Nigeria Anti-Doping Bill, 2025, into law.
Special Adviser to the President on Senate Matters, Senator Basheer Lado, described the assent as a “historic achievement” that reinforces Tinubu’s commitment to regional development, economic growth, and Nigeria’s global standing in sports.
“The signing of these bills is a testament to President Tinubu’s dedication to inclusive governance and equitable development,” Lado said. “By establishing these regional commissions, the president has demonstrated his unwavering resolve to drive infrastructural growth, create jobs, and uplift communities across the country.”
The South-West and South-South Development Commissions are expected to accelerate economic activities and infrastructural projects in their respective regions. Their establishment follows Tinubu’s earlier assent to similar commissions for the South-East and North-West, signaling a broad-based approach to regional empowerment.
“President Tinubu understands that true national strength lies in ensuring that no region is left behind. These commissions will serve as engines of progress, fostering industrialization and social advancement in their respective zones.”
He noted that the Nigeria Anti-Doping Bill aligns the country with international anti-doping regulations by domesticating the UNESCO International Convention Against Doping in Sports. It also aims to ensure Nigerian athletes compete fairly on the world stage while protecting the integrity of national and international sports competitions.
“With this law, Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to fairness, excellence, and integrity in sports,” Lado stated. “President Tinubu has positioned Nigeria as a nation that upholds global standards, ensuring our athletes compete with honor and credibility.”
Lado commended the president’s leadership, describing the new laws as “another bold step toward national transformation.”
“President Tinubu’s vision is clear—unity, progress, and a prosperous future for all Nigerians,” he said, adding, “His ability to enact policies that foster development and global recognition speaks volumes of his dedication to the country.”