His Eminence, the Obong of Calabar, has pledged to collaborate with the newly elected National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by Ambassador Godknows Igali, to further the development of the Niger Delta region. This promise was made during a courtesy visit by PANDEF’s leadership to the Obong’s palace in Calabar.

During the visit, the Obong called on Niger Deltans to unite behind PANDEF, recognizing it as the apex sociopolitical umbrella body for the South-South geopolitical zone. He highlighted his early involvement in the establishment of PANDEF, alongside the late Oba Erediauwa of Benin, and praised Chief Edwin Clark for his foresight in bringing together the region’s leaders to form the organization.

In his address, Ambassador Igali informed the Obong that PANDEF had come to show respect to the monarch, who holds the revered status of a treaty king, and to seek his royal blessings. The PANDEF National Chairman traced the history of Calabar, noting that the Obong of Calabar signed a treaty with Queen Victoria of England in the 13th century, emphasizing that only equals enter into such agreements. This, he stated, serves as a reminder of PANDEF’s role in advocating for a constitutional role for traditional rulers in Nigerian governance.

Ambassador Igali also underscored the historical significance of Calabar as the headquarters of PANDEF since 1906, suggesting the city be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. He reiterated that the struggles of the region’s forefathers for justice and the development of the Niger Delta have laid the foundation for ongoing advocacy efforts, including the Willins Commission and the creation of the Niger Delta River Basin.

The PANDEF National Chairman further outlined his vision for the current administration, emphasizing the need for PANDEF to be active and visible at all levels to represent the region’s interests. He specifically mentioned key initiatives like the Coast Guard bill, the South-South Development Commission bill, and the 2025 national budget, ensuring that the region’s voice remains central to national discussions.

In a statement signed by Olorogun Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, National Publicity Secretary & Spokesman, the Obong welcomed the PANDEF delegation to his personal country home in Calabar, where they were treated to a memorable reception, including the renowned Calabar fresh fish pepper soup.

PANDEF, with its newly elected leadership, remains committed to advancing the political and developmental interests of the Niger Delta region, and this royal endorsement from the Obong of Calabar is seen as a significant step toward achieving those goals.