Date: 18th June, 2025
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) under the able leadership of His Excellency, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali has witnessed a remarkable transformation marked by strategic diplomacy, inclusive engagement, and a renewed push for sustainable development and justice in the Niger Delta region.
Since assuming office as Chairman, Ambassador Igali—a seasoned diplomat, technocrat, and respected public servant—has repositioned PANDEF as a credible and formidable voice for the people of the Niger Delta, both within national discourse and in global development platforms.
Landmark Achievements of Ambassador Godknows Igali’s Leadership:
1. Institutional Strengthening and Zonal Coordination:
Ambassador Igali initiated critical internal reforms, streamlining PANDEF’s operations and expanding its outreach with zonal liaison offices and diaspora coordination desks. This has enhanced the Forum’s organizational strength and presence.
2. Unity and Inclusion Across Stakeholder Groups:
Through targeted dialogue and bridge-building, he successfully reunited formerly disengaged stakeholders—including traditional rulers, youth leaders, women, and civil society groups—under one unified PANDEF umbrella.
3. Revival of the Niger Delta Master Plan Agenda:
Under his watch, PANDEF has placed the long-neglected Niger Delta Master Plan back into national conversation, lobbying for its full implementation to promote strategic and lasting development in the region.
4. Constructive Federal Engagement:
Ambassador Igali has led high-level delegations to engage constructively with the Presidency, National Assembly, and relevant ministries, advocating for key issues such as the restructuring of the NDDC, proper implementation of the Ogoni Cleanup, and strengthening of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
5. Thought Leadership on Resource Control:
PANDEF under his leadership has taken the lead in advocating for resource control, true federalism, and fiscal justice through public policy forums, media engagements, and strategic lobbying.
6. Environmental Advocacy:
Ambassador Igali has remained a vocal advocate for environmental restoration in the Niger Delta. PANDEF has actively monitored the Ogoni Cleanup and demanded transparency in environmental remediation efforts across the region.
7. Empowerment of Women and Youth:
Through the establishment of the PANDEF Women Empowerment Desk and the Youth Engagement Council, he has ensured greater representation and participation of women and young people in regional decision-making and development initiatives.
8. International Partnerships:
Using his vast diplomatic network, Ambassador Igali has brokered collaborations with international agencies such as the UNDP, World Bank, and EU on sustainable development projects and capacity-building programmes.
9. Peacebuilding in Conflict Zones:
In conflict-prone communities across Bayelsa, Rivers, and Delta States, PANDEF has led peacebuilding missions that have successfully de-escalated tension, restored dialogue, and supported community reconciliation.
10. Policy Advocacy and National Recognition:
PANDEF, under Ambassador Igali’s leadership, has gained national influence and respect. The Forum now plays an advisory role on energy transition, infrastructure development, revenue allocation, and local content in the petroleum industry.
A Statesman of Vision and Substance
Ambassador Godknows Igali’s leadership style—anchored on diplomacy, inclusiveness, and results—has restored PANDEF’s stature as a credible voice for justice, peace, and development in the Niger Delta. He has redefined what it means to lead a regional advocacy body in 21st-century Nigeria.
As PANDEF continues its mission of promoting equity, good governance, and environmental justice, the Niger Delta region and indeed the nation can count on Ambassador Igali’s steady hand and far-reaching vision.
Signed:
Kenneth Emea
National Spokespersom
Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria
(COCSON)