PANDEF Calls On Tinubu: Appoint Skilled Leaders For South-South Development

Why PANDEF is Pushing for the Right Leadership in the South-South Development Commission

Listen up, everyone. The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) is making a bold move, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to handpick capable, experienced leaders to steer the newly formed South-South Development Commission. This isn’t just about filling positions—it’s about ensuring that the right people, with the right skills, are in charge of driving sustainable growth in one of Nigeria’s most critical regions. The South-South isn’t just another part of the country; it’s the heart of our oil industry and a key player in our national economy. So, getting this right is non-negotiable.

PANDEF Applauds Tinubu’s Move to Establish the Commission

In a statement delivered by PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, the group praised President Tinubu for signing the South-South Development Commission Bill into law. This is a major win for the region, and PANDEF isn’t shy about showing their appreciation. The forum also tipped its hat to the National Assembly for their role in pushing this legislation through. This move has given the people of the South-South renewed hope that the Federal Government is serious about leveling the playing field when it comes to regional development across Nigeria.

More Than Just Words: The Importance of Action

While PANDEF is celebrating the establishment of the commission, they’re also sounding a warning bell. The success of this commission hinges on the competence and integrity of the people chosen to lead it. PANDEF is urging President Tinubu to prioritize merit and experience when selecting these leaders. After all, the goal is to ensure that the commission complements the efforts of state governments in driving progress in the Niger Delta. This isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about making real, lasting change.

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The forum also pointed out the pressing need for government intervention in tackling the environmental degradation and infrastructure deficits that have plagued the oil-rich region for far too long. Beyond the commission, PANDEF is calling for broader measures to address environmental remediation and economic development. It’s not just about creating a new body; it’s about taking comprehensive steps to ensure the region thrives.

A Call for Stability in Rivers State

But that’s not all. PANDEF is also appealing to President Tinubu to step in and resolve the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. They’re asking for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State Assembly. The group expressed concerns over the suspension of these officials and urged immediate action to restore stability in the state. This isn’t just about politics; it’s about ensuring that Rivers State can continue to function effectively and contribute to the nation’s growth.

PANDEF’s Message: A Path Forward for the South-South

Here’s what PANDEF had to say in their statement: “On behalf of the Niger Delta ethnic nationalities and peoples which make up the South-South geopolitical zone, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) conveys profound gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the historic signing of the South-South Development Commission Bill into law. This is a monumental moment for our region, and we’re grateful to the National Assembly for their role in making it happen. This action has boosted the confidence of our people in the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting even regional development across the country, especially addressing the unique challenges facing our region.”

They continued, “PANDEF is hopeful that in setting up this new commission, Mr. President will carefully select individuals with the necessary skills and experience. These leaders need to complement the efforts of our governors in delivering sustainable development to a region that has been contributing to the Nigerian economy for decades. We also reiterate that environmental remediation from the negative impact of oil and gas production, as well as addressing the acute deficit in basic infrastructure, must remain a priority. These issues pose an existential threat to the South-South, and we cannot afford to ignore them.”

Finally, PANDEF concluded, “We’re hopeful that based on the sustained nationwide appeals and genuine concerns from virtually every corner of the country over the suspension of the Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, and the State Assembly, Mr. President will act swiftly to restore normal democratic governance in the state by recalling the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State Assembly. Once again, we thank President Tinubu and the National Assembly for this significant milestone. PANDEF looks forward to continued collaboration, progress, and peace in the days ahead.”