The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by elder statesman Pa Edwin Clark, has criticized the Federal Government’s recent decision to disband the Ministry of Niger Delta, calling for a reconsideration of this move. Following a meeting on October 24, 2024, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Forum’s General Assembly expressed “serious concern” over the dissolution of the ministry, noting that it was created to address the unique environmental and economic needs of the Niger Delta region.

“The Assembly further condemns that the Ministry has been dissolved into a non-existing body without due consideration to those specific circumstances that led to its creation nor consultation with the critical stakeholders,” the communique stated, highlighting the lack of engagement with key stakeholders in the region.

PANDEF urged the Federal Government to reopen discussions to address these issues, especially at a time when policies to significantly boost oil production are being pursued. While welcoming the idea of a proposed South-South Commission as a complement to current federal agencies, the Assembly also recommended that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) be renamed to better reflect its purpose and membership.

Regarding local development, the Assembly called on state governments in the Niger Delta to make full use of the 13% revenue derivation for crucial projects. These include upgrades to essential infrastructure like the East-West Highway and the rehabilitation of seven underutilized seaports in the area.

To support these objectives, PANDEF called on the Federal Government to repair failing roads, complete the East-West Highway, initiate construction of the Calabar-Lagos railway, and establish a maritime mass transit system for riverine communities. Additionally, the Assembly urged the states in the region to launch industrialization programs aimed at generating wealth, creating jobs, and building local skills.