The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has warned the Federal Government that the worsening infrastructure crisis in the Niger Delta can no longer be treated as a regional problem, urging President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in the region’s deteriorating road network.
PANDEF said the condition of major roads across the South-South had reached “a proportion of national emergency”, stressing that the Federal Government must move beyond promises and prioritise the rehabilitation and reconstruction of critical routes.
The forum made the demand in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Amb. Godknows Igali, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
While congratulating President Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians, PANDEF commended governors and other leaders across the six South-South states for their efforts in infrastructure, human welfare and social development.
However, it warned that the region’s difficult terrain made federal intervention even more urgent.
PANDEF noted that large parts of the South-South are waterlogged, making road construction and maintenance more challenging and increasing the consequences of infrastructure neglect.
“The question of infrastructure in the Niger Delta, especially the road network, has reached a proportion of national emergency,” the forum said.
It urged the Federal Government to give greater attention to critical roads across the region, arguing that sustained investment was necessary to address the infrastructure deficit.
PANDEF also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission, Niger Delta Basin Development Authority and Presidential Amnesty Programme for their contributions to development in the region.
The forum, however, said infrastructure was only one part of the challenge confronting the Niger Delta.
It called for renewed federal action on environmental remediation, citing decades of oil pollution and gas flaring across oil-producing communities.
PANDEF said the environmental consequences of prolonged oil exploration required sustained government intervention to restore affected communities and safeguard the region for future generations.
The forum also praised South-South governors, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women and youths for their contributions to peace and development.
It called on Nigerians to continue praying for the unity, peace and progress of the country.
Quoting the Bible, PANDEF said, “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labour in vain.”
The forum wished Nigerians peace and progress as the country marked its 66th Independence Anniversary.