The National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Amb. Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, has extended a heartfelt New Year message, emphasizing both the achievements and challenges of 2024 while expressing hope for 2025.

Addressing the people of the Niger Delta and Nigerians at large, Dr. Igali outlined a vision for unity, progress, and prosperity for the region.

Reflecting on the past year, he acknowledged the region’s successes despite hurdles such as environmental degradation, poor federal highways, and the loss of prominent leaders. He praised the unwavering dedication of regional leaders, including governors, legislators, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), under the leadership of Dr. Samuel Ongbuku, for impactful projects like solar-powered street lighting.

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.

Looking ahead, he outlined PANDEF’s priorities for 2025, 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.