The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately assent to the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) Bill, which is currently pending before him. The group believes that the bill is crucial for driving significant social and economic development in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
In a recent communique read by PANDEF’s National Spokesperson, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, the group also opposed the proposal to place the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under the Ministry of Regional Development Commission. Instead, PANDEF demanded the commission revert to its previous name, the Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC), to avoid confusion with the new South-South Development Commission.
The communique, delivered at a press briefing in Abuja, urged President Tinubu to appoint the next Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) from the Niger Delta region, citing justice, equity, and fair play.
PANDEF emphasized that the challenges facing the Niger Delta could be effectively addressed if intervention policies and programs were closely monitored. They argue that the establishment of the SSDC would complement the efforts of the NDDC and promote more comprehensive regional development.
“We observe with great concern that the Bill for the establishment of the South-South Development Commission, which was passed by the National Assembly, is yet to be signed by the President,” said PANDEF. “The delay in signing this bill could create a sense of exclusion among the people of the South-South, potentially impacting the peace and stability in the Niger Delta.”
The group praised the efforts of South-South governors in striving for sustainable development, despite the challenging terrain and environmental conditions. However, PANDEF reiterated its call for President Tinubu to urgently sign the SSDC Bill to ensure the South-South region receives its rightful share of development attention.
Furthermore, PANDEF voiced concerns about the expanding membership of the NDDC, which has extended beyond its original geographic boundary to include other oil-producing states like Abia, Imo, and Ondo. The group recommended that the NDDC return to its original name, OMPADEC, to avoid confusion with the SSDC and clearly distinguish the roles of the two commissions.
The communique also addressed the oil and gas sector, noting the absence of investments in the Niger Delta despite the region’s vital contribution to Nigeria’s energy production. PANDEF criticized the recent decision of the NNPC to partner with private investors to develop LNG, CNG, and LPG complexes outside the Niger Delta. The group urged President Tinubu to direct the NNPC to invest in the region by establishing mini-refineries and supporting local development.
In addition, PANDEF called on the President to collaborate with South-South governors to develop new ports in the region to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a hub for the blue economy in West and Central Africa.