The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by elder statesman Pa Edwin Clark, has criticized the Federal Government for its decision to dissolve the Ministry of Niger Delta.
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In a communique issued at the end of a meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on October 24, 2024, the Forum’s General Assembly noted with “serious concern the scrapping of the Ministry of Niger Delta which was established to address specific issues bordering on the peculiar circumstances of the Niger Delta, it’s damaged environment and its overall importance to the national economy”.
“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.
“PANDEF, therefore, calls on the federal government desire to further discuss this matter with a view to addressing several specific concerns, especially at a time when the government is pursuing policies to radically increase oil production.
“The Assembly welcomes the proposed South-South Commission to supplement existing Federal Agencies. However, the name of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NÐDC) should reflect its functions and the actual membership.”
The Assembly urged state governments in the Niger Delta region to fully utilize the 13% derivation revenues to implement essential programs and initiatives.
“These include roads like East-West Highway and the existing seven seaports in the area not being operated.
“To remedy the situation, the Assembly calls on the Federal Government to repair all failed roads, complete the East-West Highway, commence the building of the Calabar-Lagos railway, and set up maritime mass transit system for the riverine areas of the Niger Delta.”
PANDEF called on the state governments in the region to launch large-scale industrialization programs to create wealth, generate employment, and develop skills, among other benefits.
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