By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has urged the Ministers of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh to prioritise the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC intervention initiatives, given the dire need to address infrastructure challenges in the region.
PANDEF also highlighted the deteriorating conditions of major highways in the region such as the Uyo-Calabar Road, Delta-Benin Road, East-West Road, and Auchi-Benin Road, and called for immediate intervention for regional connectivity and economic growth.
The regional body made the advocacy when its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali led members of the Forum on a courtesy visit to the Minister of Regional Development, Engr Abubakar Momoh and the Minister of State, Uba Maigari Ahmadu.
In a display of support, the top-level delegation from the executive leadership of PANDEF, expressed hopes that the new ministry would drive meaningful progress across the federation.
This visit underscored PANDEF’s commitment to advancing the interests of the Niger Delta, as members reaffirmed their readiness to work closely with the ministry.
PANDEF, the leading advocacy group for the Niger Delta, was founded by Chief Edwin Clark and other regional leaders. Their dedication played a crucial role in establishing the former Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, and their advocacy efforts have remained steadfast over the years.
Speaking on behalf of PANDEF, Ambassador Igali expressed concerns about the possible sidelining of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, amid the ministry’s restructuring.
In a statement by Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah, Special Assistant to the Minister of Regional Development, Ambassador Igali noted that “initially, members were wary that establishing the Ministry of Regional Development might overshadow the NDDC.
“However, after learning about the plans to create a South-South Development Commission and understanding the vision behind the new ministry, PANDEF recognizes the potential benefits and decided to offer their support.”
Highlighting the deteriorating conditions of major highways such as the Uyo-Calabar Road, Delta-Benin Road, East-West Road, and Auchi-Benin Road, Ambassador Igali emphasized the importance of these projects for regional connectivity and economic growth.
Speaking at the courtesy visit, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, Minister of Regional Development reaffirmed the government’s dedication to advancing infrastructure for the Niger Delta communities and the nation.
Momoh reassured that the NDDC remains integral to the ministry’s development strategy and will not be overlooked. He highlighted that the upcoming South-South Development Commission would further elevate the NDDC’s role.
Reflecting on the delays faced by the East-West Road project after it was transferred to other agencies under the Ministry of Works, Momoh emphasized the ministry’s commitment to collaborate closely with the Works Ministry to accelerate the completion of this critical infrastructure.
“This effort, along with President Tinubu’s new coastal road project connecting Lagos to Calabar, which will span approximately 80% of Niger Delta communities, is set to drive substantial economic growth by enhancing trade and transportation networks across the region,” he said.
The Minister revealed that he has directed the NDDC to immediately begin palliative work on critical highways in the Niger Delta region, adding that the initiative underscored his commitment to addressing the region’s urgent infrastructure challenges with practical and immediate solutions.
He reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing development in the Niger Delta.
The two ministers expressed appreciation for PANDEF’s continued advocacy, even as the regional body pledged to work hand-in-hand with the ministry to ensure that the region receives the attention it deserves.
Both parties expressed optimism that the partnership would yield meaningful progress and renewed hope for the Niger Delta people.
