PANDEF hails Tinubu for signing South-South Development Commission bill

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South-South Development Commission Bill into law, describing it as a landmark decision that renews the region’s faith in the Federal Government’s commitment to equitable development.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, and signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, PANDEF commended both the President and the National Assembly for the swift passage of the bill, which aims to tackle the social, environmental, and developmental challenges confronting the Niger Delta region.

The statement emphasized that the signing of the bill has reinforced the confidence of South-South residents in the government’s resolve to promote even regional development and address long-standing challenges facing the oil-rich region. PANDEF further stressed the importance of appointing qualified and experienced individuals to lead the newly established commission, ensuring that it effectively complements the efforts of state governors in driving sustainable development. The forum urged President Tinubu to carefully select competent hands with proven skills and experience to oversee the commission’s operations, noting that the South-South has played a critical role in sustaining Nigeria’s economy for decades.

While celebrating the establishment of the South-South Development Commission, PANDEF reminded the Federal Government of other pressing issues affecting the region. The group highlighted environmental degradation caused by oil exploration, calling for immediate remediation efforts. It also pointed out the severe infrastructure deficit in the area, urging the government to prioritize these concerns to prevent further economic and social deterioration.

Beyond regional development, PANDEF also addressed the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. The forum appealed to President Tinubu to restore democratic governance in the state following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the State House of Assembly. It noted that there have been widespread calls from Nigerians across different sectors urging the President to intervene and reinstate the affected officials. PANDEF expressed hope that, given the nationwide appeals and the genuine concerns raised over the situation, the President would act swiftly to restore stability in Rivers State.

The statement concluded with PANDEF reaffirming its commitment to working with the Federal Government to ensure peace, progress, and sustainable development in the South-South. It once again appreciated President Tinubu and the National Assembly for taking this significant step and looked forward to continued collaboration in the future.