The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has applauded President Bola Tinubu for signing the South-South Development Commission Bill into law.

It also lauded the National Assembly for its expeditious and diligent processing of the pivotal legislation.
A statement by PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Godknows Igali, on Wednesday, said the creation of the commission would engender development at the grassroots.

According to Igali, the signing of the bill has renewed the people’s confidence in the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing regional disparities and developmental deficits in the region.

He emphasised that the South-South region, which has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economy through its oil and gas resources, deserves a structured and effective intervention to improve infrastructure and social well-being.

While expressing optimism that the President will appoint individuals of proven competence to led the Commission, he said: “This landmark action reinforces the Federal Government’s dedication to fostering equitable regional development across Nigeria. Specifically, it addresses the unique social, environmental, and developmental challenges confronting our region.

“The establishment of the South-South Development Commission signifies a strategic move towards mitigating longstanding issues that have impeded the progress of the South-South zone”.

The PANDEF National Chairman called on the government to address environmental remediation in the area due to the adverse impacts of oil and gas production, even as he appealed for restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State.

“We reiterate the urgency of tackling other pressing issues, notably environmental remediation due to the adverse impacts of oil and gas production, and the acute deficit in basic infrastructure. These challenges pose existential threats to the South-South and should be prioritized in the Commission’s agenda to enhance the quality of life for our people.

“In light of widespread appeals and genuine concerns from various quarters of the country regarding the suspension of the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, the Deputy Governor, and the State Assembly, PANDEF earnestly appeals to President Tinubu to facilitate the immediate restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State by reinstating the aforementioned officials,” Igali said.