***Moves to reconcile Wike, Fubara
At a crucial assembly held in Port Harcourt, the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the decision to abolish the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
In addition, they highlighted the need for urgent investments in regional infrastructure and increased local participation in the oil sector to address the long-standing challenges in the Niger Delta.
The Special General Assembly, hosted by Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, convened government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives of youth and women’s organizations.
Focused on the theme, “Fostering Peace and Unity for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta,” the assembly urged action on several critical issues to boost the region’s economic future.
In a communique signed by PANDEF Board of Trustees Co-Chairmen HE King Alfred Diette-Spiff and HE Obong Victor Attah, the assembly voiced opposition to the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs’ dissolution, advocating for either its reinstatement or the creation of a South-South Commission dedicated to the region’s needs.
The statement noted, “The Ministry was established to address specific issues related to the Niger Delta’s unique environmental challenges and economic importance. The decision to dissolve it lacked consultation with critical stakeholders and fails to consider the circumstances that led to its creation.”
PANDEF also emphasized the urgency of resolving conflicts among regional leaders.
To this end, they announced the establishment of a High-Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee, led by Obong Victor Attah, to mediate disputes, including the ongoing rift between Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This committee aims to foster stability and cooperation within the Niger Delta.
The assembly raised concerns over neglected infrastructure, particularly the East-West Road, and urged the federal government to prioritize critical projects like the Calabar-Lagos railway to support economic growth in oil-producing states.
Another key point was the need for policies that ensure greater local participation in the oil and gas sector, a vital industry located within the region but often excluding local investors.
In line with sustainable economic goals, PANDEF expressed optimism about the newly established African Energy Bank, which could provide financial support for local projects in green and sustainable energy.
To further economic growth, PANDEF recommended that Niger Delta states allocate 20% of their budgets to industrialization and agriculture and 25% to education.
They advocated for industrial parks and agricultural development, particularly in fisheries and food processing.
The assembly concluded with the inauguration of a new PANDEF National Executive Committee, led by Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali as National Chairman.
This leadership is charged with advancing PANDEF’s mission for equitable economic development and advocating for a prosperous future for the Niger Delta through peaceful engagement with federal and state governments.