The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, has set an ambitious agenda for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging swift action on critical issues to drive the development of the Niger Delta. In his heartfelt New Year message, Dr. Igali called for transformative changes while reflecting on the challenges and achievements of 2024.
Dr. Igali noted that while the past year brought notable progress, significant obstacles, such as environmental degradation, poor federal highways, and the loss of key regional leaders, remain. Despite these setbacks, he praised the resilience of Niger Delta communities and the dedication of regional leaders, including the six state governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers, as well as National Assembly members led by Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio.
Commending the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Igali highlighted impactful projects like the solar-powered street lighting initiative, which has transformed communities across the region. He lauded the efforts of grassroots organizations and elder statesmen who continue to champion progress against all odds.
As he addressed the people of the Niger Delta and Nigerians at large, Dr. Igali emphasized unity, progress, and sustainable development as cornerstones for 2025. He urged a renewed focus on harnessing the region’s natural resources, fertile lands, and vast coastline to build a thriving blue economy encompassing tourism, fisheries, and mining.
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PANDEF’s priorities for the year include sustainable environmental restoration and cross-sector collaboration. Dr. Igali stressed the need for private sector leaders, government officials, and intervention agencies to work collectively, leveraging the efforts of PANDEF and the BRACED Commission to achieve these goals.
In a direct appeal to President Tinubu, Dr. Igali outlined urgent actions: passing the South-South Development Commission Bill, launching environmental remediation projects like the cleanup of polluted areas, and declaring a state of emergency on the federal highway network. He also demanded greater representation of qualified Niger Delta citizens in top management roles within the oil and gas sector.
Reaffirming PANDEF’s commitment to the socio-economic and political advancement of the region, Dr. Igali underscored its pivotal role in national security and economic sustainability. He emphasized that the Niger Delta remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s oil production efforts, pledging PANDEF’s continued collaboration to exceed set targets.
“Our vision is to foster unity and harmony, not just in the Niger Delta but across Nigeria. Together, we can transform challenges into opportunities for lasting progress,” Dr. Igali concluded, signaling hope and determination for a brighter future in 2025.
