PANDEF Commends President Tinubu for Signing South-South Development Commission Bill into Law
By DAYO ADESULU
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the South-South Development Commission Bill into law, a move hailed as a major step toward addressing the socio-economic and environmental challenges facing the South-South geopolitical zone.
South-South Development Commission Bill Signed into Law
In a statement released on Wednesday, PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for assenting to the bill, emphasizing that it reinforces the Federal Government’s commitment to regional development.
“This singular action has boosted the confidence of our people in the government’s determination to ensure equitable regional development across the country. It will specifically tackle the peculiar social, environmental, and developmental challenges of the South-South region,” Igali said.
Ensuring Competence in Leadership for the South-South Development Commission
Igali further urged the President to appoint competent and experienced individuals to lead the newly established South-South Development Commission. According to him, the commission should complement the efforts of South-South Governors in delivering sustainable development.
“PANDEF is hopeful that in setting up the leadership of this new Commission, Mr. President will carefully select tested professionals with relevant experience to ensure efficiency and impactful service delivery,” he noted.
PANDEF’s Call for Environmental Remediation and Infrastructure Development
Beyond the establishment of the South-South Development Commission, PANDEF emphasized the need for urgent environmental remediation in the region, particularly addressing the adverse effects of oil and gas exploration. The group also highlighted the acute infrastructure deficit in the South-South, calling for prioritization of these issues.
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“We reiterate that other pressing concerns, such as environmental degradation from decades of oil and gas extraction and the alarming lack of basic infrastructure, should be addressed with utmost urgency,” PANDEF stated.
PANDEF Urges Tinubu to Reinstate Rivers State Governor and Deputy
In addition to acknowledging the South-South Development Commission Bill, PANDEF called on President Tinubu to urgently restore democratic governance in Rivers State. The group expressed concerns over the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, and the State Assembly, urging the Federal Government to intervene.
“Based on the widespread calls for intervention from various quarters across Nigeria, PANDEF hopes that Mr. President will graciously take immediate steps to reinstate the Rivers State Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State Assembly,” the statement read.
PANDEF Expresses Gratitude to National Assembly
PANDEF also commended the National Assembly for expediting the legislative process, ensuring the swift passage of the South-South Development Commission Bill. The organization stressed that the establishment of the commission would play a pivotal role in addressing long-standing developmental challenges in the region.
“We appreciate the National Assembly for its timely efforts in passing this landmark legislation. The establishment of the South-South Development Commission is a significant milestone in the quest for sustainable development in our region,” PANDEF concluded.
A Bright Future for the South-South Region
The creation of the South-South Development Commission is expected to usher in a new era of economic growth, infrastructural development, and environmental rehabilitation in the Niger Delta region. With proper implementation and transparent leadership, the commission can serve as a catalyst for transformation, ensuring that the South-South region receives the attention it deserves.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) serves as the apex socio-political organization advocating for the interests of the South-South region of Nigeria. Its key functions include:
- Advocacy for Regional Development – It pushes for infrastructural and economic development in the Niger Delta.
- Environmental Protection – It calls for remediation of oil spill impacts and sustainable environmental policies.
- Resource Control & Equity – It advocates for fair revenue allocation from oil resources.
- Political Representation – It engages with the government to ensure the South-South region’s interests are represented.
- Peacebuilding – The group works to maintain peace and stability in the Niger Delta.
- Good Governance – It promotes accountability and transparency in leadership.
PANDEF reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Federal Government, stakeholders, and regional leaders to ensure the commission fulfills its mandate effectively.
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