Breaking: PANDEF calls for South-South Development Commission, Advocates for Niger Delta’s Economic Revival

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for the establishment of a South-South Development Commission to drive sustainable development in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. Speaking on the urgent need for economic transformation, speaking in an interview on Arise Tv, Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimi emphasized that the region, which generates a significant portion of Nigeria’s revenue, remains severely underdeveloped, with communities facing worsening economic and environmental challenges.  

Amid growing concerns over neglect, environmental degradation, and economic hardship in the South-South region, PANDEF has urged the Federal Government to prioritize development initiatives for the Niger Delta.  

Speaking on the issues Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimi stressed that the region, which serves as Nigeria’s primary oil and gas hub, continues to suffer from lack of basic infrastructure, environmental pollution, and economic decline, leaving communities unable to sustain their traditional means of livelihood.  

"The Niger Delta is the backbone of Nigeria’s economy, contributing the majority of the nation’s oil and gas revenue. However, the people of this region have been left to suffer the consequences of oil exploration, with no corresponding development to show for it," Ominimi stated.  

One of the biggest challenges facing South-South communities is the severe environmental impact of oil exploration and industrial activities. Oil spills, gas flaring, and land degradation have rendered vast areas of farmland useless, while water pollution has devastated fishing communities that once thrived on the region’s abundant marine resources.  

"Communities that traditionally relied on fishing and farming can no longer survive because their lands are polluted, and their rivers are contaminated. The people of the Niger Delta are paying the price for the nation’s economic prosperity without any tangible benefits, "Ominimi added.  

PANDEF argues that a dedicated South-South Development Commission would serve as a direct intervention to address these longstanding issues.  

PANDEF believes that the establishment of a South-South Development Commission would create a structured framework for addressing the region’s infrastructural deficits, environmental restoration, and economic diversification.

PANDEF has urged the Federal Government to prioritize the well-being of the Niger Delta people by establishing a commission dedicated to addressing the region’s developmental needs.  

More details later......