As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has extended warm felicitations to the nation, while urging deeper reflection on the country’s journey and stronger resolve in tackling lingering challenges.
In a goodwill message signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians, especially the people of the South-South region, on reaching this milestone.
“We give thanks to Almighty God for the gift of this outstanding nation and the progress we have achieved despite some daunting challenges,” the statement read.
PANDEF also saluted the governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, and Rivers States for what it described as “sterling leadership and unwavering commitment to the development of their states and the entire South-South region.”
But beyond celebration, the group emphasized that the anniversary should inspire serious national reflection and bold governance.
“This milestone anniversary offers us yet another opportunity to reflect on the journey of our nationhood,” the statement noted.
“We urge governments at all levels to show greater determination and respect for rule of law in consolidating democracy, pursuing meaningful economic reforms, and confronting the challenges of insecurity, poverty, hunger, and youth unemployment that continue to weigh heavily on our people.”
Particularly pressing, PANDEF stressed, is the ongoing infrastructure decay in the Niger Delta—a region critical to Nigeria’s economy.
The group called on the Federal Government to urgently fix long-neglected projects such as the East-West Road, the Benin–Auchi Road, and the Benin–Warri Road, as well as revitalize southern ports in Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne, and Warri.
“If Nigeria is to fully harness its economic potential, the lingering neglect of the Niger Delta must be decisively addressed,” PANDEF warned.
Reaffirming its readiness to collaborate with both the Federal Government and state governments in the region, PANDEF called for “sober reflection, renewed dedication, and bold action to build a stronger, united, and prosperous nation for ourselves and future generations.”