The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) held a Special General Assembly at the Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, hosted by Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
Delegates included leaders from the six Niger Delta state chapters, the Board of Trustees, and the National Executive Council.
The Assembly, co-chaired by King Alfred Diette-Spiff, Amayanabo of Twon Brass, and former Akwa Ibom Governor Obong Victor Attah, focused on promoting unity and sustainable development in the Niger Delta under the theme, “Fostering Peace and Unity for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta.”
Dignitaries in attendance included former Rivers State Governor Chief Rufus Ada George, former Bayelsa Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiagha John-Jonah, and a wide range of traditional leaders, government officials, and community leaders.
In a joint communiqué signed by key officials, including HE King Alfred Diette-Spiff, HE Obong Victor Attah, HE Dr. Godknows B. Igali, Hon. Godwin Okotie, and Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, PANDEF reaffirmed the Niger Delta’s critical role in Nigeria’s economy.
They called upon the federal government to address longstanding issues of environmental degradation and underdevelopment through equitable federal policies, vowing continued peaceful advocacy for justice and regional equity.
The Assembly condemned the federal government’s neglect of essential regional infrastructure, including the East-West Highway and underutilized seaports.
PANDEF called for urgent infrastructure rehabilitation, new railway projects, and a maritime transit network for the riverine communities to enhance connectivity.
Responding to regional exclusion from oil and gas ventures, PANDEF endorsed the African Energy Bank initiative and urged federal support for local investors.
The Forum encouraged Niger Delta investors to capitalize on modular refineries and clean energy opportunities.
Expressing concern over the dissolution of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, PANDEF called for consultations to reinstate it, stressing the ministry’s critical role in addressing the region’s unique challenges amid government plans to ramp up oil production.
PANDEF urged state governments to drive industrialization and agribusiness initiatives through partnerships and targeted funding, focusing on key areas such as cassava, aquaculture, and livestock for job creation and food security.
Underlining the importance of education, PANDEF advocated for tuition-free access across all educational levels and adherence to UNESCO funding guidelines, aiming for at least one tertiary institution in each local government area to advance regional learning opportunities.
To reinforce regional identity, PANDEF announced plans to establish research institutes and publication platforms dedicated to the Niger Delta’s heritage, challenges, and development priorities.
The Assembly proposed collaborative infrastructure projects, including a Calabar-Benin railway alongside the East-West Highway, metro and bus systems, and a solar-powered maritime transit network for improved regional mobility and economic integration.
A new High-Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee, led by Obong Victor Attah, was formed to mediate disputes, fostering harmony and stability across the Niger Delta.
The Assembly inaugurated a new PANDEF National Executive Committee, with Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali assuming the role of National Chairman.
The Assembly closed with PANDEF, extending its gratitude to the Rivers State Government for its hospitality and reiterating its commitment to peace, unity, and prosperity across the Niger Delta.
