Regional Elders Warn That Neglect of Key Projects, Including East-West Road and Southern Ports, is Killing the Niger Delta’s Economy and Potential.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political voice for the South-South region, has issued an urgent call to the Federal Government, demanding immediate action to fix the rapidly worsening infrastructure decay in the Niger Delta.
In a special message marking the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, PANDEF warned that the ongoing neglect of vital projects in the region—which generates the nation’s wealth—is seriously undermining Nigeria’s overall economic potential.
Essential Projects Must Be Fixed
Ambassador Dr. Godknows Igali, the National Chairman of PANDEF, highlighted specific, crucial projects that the Federal Government must address now to save the region and boost the national economy:
- Life-Saving Roads: There is an urgent need to complete and repair major highways, particularly the notorious East-West Road, as well as the Benin–Auchi Road and the Benin–Warri Road. These roads are critical arteries for commerce and travel in the region.
- Revitalise the Ports: PANDEF emphasised that the government must urgently revitalise and make functional the major Southern ports in Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne, and Warri. These ports are vital for decongesting Lagos and distributing goods across the country, but they remain neglected.
A Call for Sober Reflection
While congratulating Nigerians and President Bola Tinubu on the anniversary, the group said the milestone calls for “sober reflection,” renewed dedication, and bold action from all levels of government.
PANDEF stressed that the government must show greater determination, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to genuine economic reforms to consolidate the nation’s democracy and confront the complex challenges of insecurity.
The forum reaffirmed its readiness to work with the Federal and State Governments to ensure that the people of the Niger Delta play their rightful, active role in the affairs of the nation. The message is a sharp reminder that the prosperity of Nigeria is tied directly to the development of the region that sustains its economy.
