The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has urged the Federal Government to prioritize infrastructure development in the Niger Delta region. In a statement marking Nigeria's 66th Independence anniversary, PANDEF emphasized the need for urgent attention to the region's road network and other infrastructure. The forum commended the Federal Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the people of the South-South region for their contributions to peace, development, and social welfare.
PANDEF noted that the Niger Delta region faces significant environmental and infrastructural challenges, with large parts of the six South-South states affected by waterlogged terrain. The forum acknowledged the contributions of intervention agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission, Niger Delta Basin Development Authority, and the Presidential Amnesty Programme, to development in the region. These agencies have been working to address some of the region's challenges.
The condition of roads across the Niger Delta has deteriorated significantly, requiring urgent Federal Government intervention, according to PANDEF. The forum called for renewed attention to environmental remediation, particularly the effects of decades of oil pollution and gas flaring in the region. This has had a devastating impact on the environment and the people living in the region.
PANDEF urged the Federal Government to sustain efforts aimed at addressing environmental challenges while improving infrastructure and supporting human and social development across the Niger Delta. The forum emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to address the region's challenges. This includes investing in infrastructure, promoting economic development, and protecting the environment.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, and Nigerians on the anniversary. The forum also commended the Governors and people of the South-South for their contributions to peace, development, and social welfare. PANDEF expressed appreciation for their efforts to promote peace and development in the region.
PANDEF, through its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, wished Nigerians a peaceful Independence anniversary. The forum prayed for continued peace and progress in the country under the guidance of Almighty God. Igali quoted Psalm 121:1, emphasizing the need for divine guidance and support.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum's call for greater infrastructure attention in the Niger Delta region highlights the need for urgent action to address the region's challenges. The forum's statement emphasizes the importance of prioritizing infrastructure development, environmental remediation, and human and social development in the region.
Key points
- PANDEF urges FG to address deteriorating infrastructure in Niger Delta
- Forum calls for renewed attention to environmental remediation
- PANDEF commends FG, President Tinubu, and South-South region for contributions to peace and development
