The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed heartfelt thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South-South Development Commission Bill into law, a decision the group hails as both historic and crucial for the region’s progress.
In a statement from PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, the forum praised the President and the National Assembly for their swift action in moving the legislative process along, ensuring the bill was passed in a timely manner. This announcement came on Tuesday, March 25, 2025.
“This important step has really boosted our people’s faith in the Federal Government’s dedication to promoting balanced regional development throughout Nigeria,” PANDEF remarked. “It also highlights the ongoing efforts to tackle the specific social, environmental, and developmental issues facing the South-South region.”
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The group encouraged President Tinubu to appoint skilled and experienced leaders to head the newly formed commission, ensuring it effectively supports state governments in driving sustainable development. The Niger Delta, which has been vital in supporting Nigeria’s economy through oil and gas production, needs targeted intervention to address environmental damage and infrastructure gaps, PANDEF emphasized.
In addition to the new commission, PANDEF also called for immediate government action on environmental cleanup and infrastructure development to resolve long-standing issues in the region.
Furthermore, the group urged the President to step in regarding the political turmoil in Rivers State, advocating for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State Assembly, citing widespread concerns over their suspension.
PANDEF reiterated its commitment to working alongside the Federal Government to promote peace, development, and stability in the South-South region.
