* Extend Heartfelt New Year Message To Nigerians
By Ogbagah Matthias, Delta
The National Chairman of the sociopolitical group Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Amb. Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, has in his New Year message det agenda for President Bola Tinubu for the overall development of Niger Delta region, extended a heartfelt New Year message to him and all Nigerians.
Igali noted that 2024 is marred with achievements and challenges while expressed hope for 2025.
“Looking back at 2024, we reflect on a year marked by notable achievements, despite some challenges that continue to confront our region. These challenges include the persistent issue of environmental degradation, the terrible state of the network of federal highways linking the region, and the painful loss of some of our esteemed leaders. Nevertheless, we also take pride in the significant strides made toward progress, largely due to the tireless efforts of our leaders , elder statesmen and grassroots organizations, who continue to make deep personal sacrifices for the progress of our region.
“We especially commend the outstanding commitment and leadership provided by our elected officials , beginning with our six state Governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Rivers and including our National Assembly members ably led by the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio, not forgetting our State Assemblies across the region”.
According to him, their collective unwavering dedication to fostering economic, social, and infrastructural development in the South-South zone is worthy of recognition.
Also worthy of due recognition is the impressive performance of the current Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) team, under the capable leadership of Dr. Samuel Ongbuku, with the successful commissioning of such highly impactful projects as the community wide solar-powered street lighting initiative spread across all the NDDC States.
Addressing the people of the Niger Delta and Nigerians at large, Dr. Igali outlined a vision for unity, progress, and prosperity for the region.
Dr. Igali highlighted the resilience of the Niger Delta people in overcoming challenges such as flooding and difficult terrain. “Remarkable progress has been made,” he noted, but stressed that much remains to be done to align the quality of life with the region’s vast natural wealth.
While outliningbPANDEF’s priorities for the 2025, he stressed on focusing on sustainable development and environmental restoration. He emphasized the importance of harnessing the region’s natural resources, fertile lands, and coastline to build a robust blue economy, including tourism, fisheries, and mining.
Dr. Igali also called for cross-sector collaboration, urging private sector leaders, government officials, and intervention agencies to work in unison. He highlighted the role of PANDEF and the BRACED Commission in coordinating efforts to achieve these ambitious goals.
In an appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Igali underscored the need for urgent action on critical issues:
Passing the bill for the South-South Development Commission.
Initiating environmental remediation, including the cleanup of polluted areas.
Declaring a state of emergency over the region’s federal highway network.
Addressing the underrepresentation of qualified Niger Delta citizens in top management positions within the oil and gas sector.
Dr. Igali reaffirmed PANDEF’s commitment to the region’s socio-economic and political advancement, emphasizing its critical role in national security and economic sustainability.
“Through collaboration, we have ensured steady oil production and remain dedicated to surpassing set targets,” he stated, adding that PANDEF seeks to foster unity and harmony not only in the Niger Delta but across Nigeria.
Concluding his message, Dr. Igali extended warm wishes for a peaceful, prosperous, and memorable 2025 to the Niger Delta and the entire nation.
