The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has urged the federal government to address the deteriorating state of infrastructure in the Niger Delta region, warning that the area's road network has reached a national emergency level. In a statement issued to commemorate Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, PANDEF's National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows B. Igali, emphasized the need for urgent action. The forum congratulated President Bola Tinubu, the federal government, and Nigerians on the occasion.
PANDEF stressed that the Niger Delta environment has endured the effects of oil pollution and gas flaring for about 70 years, making environmental remediation a pressing concern. The forum cited the region's difficult terrain and its importance to the Nigerian economy as reasons for greater federal attention. PANDEF reminded the federal government of its responsibility to address the state of infrastructure in the Niger Delta, particularly the road network.
The forum commended the governors of the six South-south states for their efforts in infrastructural development, human welfare, and social development, despite the region's challenging geographical conditions. Many parts of the South-south are waterlogged, making infrastructure development particularly challenging. PANDEF acknowledged the contributions of federal intervention agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, and the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).
PANDEF stated that the interventions of these agencies remain important to addressing some of the development challenges confronting the Niger Delta. However, the forum maintained that the scale of infrastructure and environmental challenges in the region requires sustained attention from the federal government beyond existing interventions. PANDEF called for greater commitment to the development of road infrastructure, stating that improved connectivity is critical to the region's economic and social development.
The forum used the anniversary to acknowledge the efforts of political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women, and youths in promoting peace and development across the South-south. PANDEF congratulated Tinubu and Nigerians on the 66th anniversary of the country's independence and urged citizens to continue to pray for the peace and progress of Nigeria.
PANDEF quoted Psalm 121:1 of the Holy Bible, emphasizing the need for divine guidance in the development of the region. The organisation wished Nigerians peace and progress, and reiterated its commitment to promoting development in the Niger Delta. The forum's statement reflects the concerns of various stakeholders in the region who are advocating for improved infrastructure and environmental remediation.
The Niger Delta region has been facing significant development challenges for decades, including poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, and limited economic opportunities. PANDEF's call for urgent action highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing these challenges. The federal government's response to the forum's demands will be crucial in determining the future of the region and its people.
Key points
- PANDEF urges federal government to address Niger Delta infrastructure crisis
- Environmental remediation is a pressing concern in the Niger Delta region
- Improved road infrastructure is critical to the region's economic and social development
