5 Things to Know About Mark Okoye, the Newly Appointed MD/CEO of the South East Development Commission (SEDC)

The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has appointed Mark Okoye as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO)—a landmark decision that signals a new era for economic growth and regional transformation.

With a stellar track record in economic planning, investment promotion, and governance, Okoye’s leadership is expected to drive strategic investments, unlock infrastructure development, and position the South East as a hub for innovation and industrialisation.

Here are five defining facts about the man at the helm of the South East’s future:

1. A Proven Leader in Economic Transformation

Mark Okoye has redefined public sector leadership with his innovative approach to economic development. As Commissioner for Economic Planning, Budget, and Development Partnerships in Anambra State, he prepared multi-year development plans worth $1.5 billion, oversaw annual budgets of approximately $500 million, and achieved an impressive 80% budget execution rate year-over-year.

He spearheaded statewide revenue optimisation reforms, which increased monthly revenue by 300% to $7 million while eliminating leakages and building a clean database of 300,000+ taxpayers and 20,000+ corporate entities.

2. Nigeria’s Youngest Commissioner in History

In 2016, Okoye made history as Nigeria’s youngest-ever Commissioner at the age of 30. This groundbreaking moment highlighted the power of youth-driven leadership in governance. His appointment shattered conventional barriers, proving that competence, vision, and innovation matter more than age.

Unsurprisingly, his meteoric rise to leadership has inspired young professionals across Nigeria. It proves that competence and performance—not political connections—can define one’s trajectory in public service. Okoye has also actively pushed for policies that create opportunities for young entrepreneurs, innovators, and professionals, recognising that Africa’s future is anchored on its youth population.

3. A Globally Recognised Changemaker

Mark Okoye’s influence extends far beyond Nigeria’s borders. His trailblazing impact on governance, economic planning, and investment strategy has earned him global recognition.

He is the recipient of multiple prestigious awards, including 2016 Young Person of the Year (The Future Awards Africa), Prize for Public Service (The Future Awards Africa), Anambra’s Most Impactful Young Person of the Decade, StateCraft Inc.’s 100 Most Influential Powers Behind the State, Influential Young Africans in Politics Under 40, among a host of others.

4. Architect of Multi-Billion Naira Investments

As MD/CEO of the Anambra State Investment Promotion and Protection Agency (ANSIPA), Okoye managed a ₦100+ billion investment portfolio spanning agriculture, infrastructure, technology, real estate, and industrialisation. Under his leadership, ANSIPA secured $250 million in development finance from Afreximbank, attracted ₦120 billion in committed investments within just 14 months, launched a $10 million state-backed venture capital fund for startups in Anambra, developed a $100 million diaspora infrastructure fund to co-finance major development projects.

5. A Strong Academic and Professional Background

Okoye’s world-class education and hands-on leadership experience uniquely qualify him to lead the South East Development Commission. He holds a degree in Finance and Investment from George Washington University and has completed executive programs in Leadership, Innovation, and Development at Harvard Kennedy School.
His expertise spans economic policy design, investment strategy & financial structuring, public finance & governance, and infrastructure development.

Without a doubt, Okoye’s appointment represents more than just a change in leadership—it marks the beginning of a new economic era for the region. His bold vision, outstanding track record, and unwavering commitment to development indicate that his leadership at SEDC is expected to accelerate regional transformation, attract strategic investments, and create lasting prosperity for millions.