President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring stability and development in the Niger Delta, stressing that the region remains the economic backbone of Nigeria.
He made this assertion during a meeting with leaders of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Tuesday.
Describing the Niger Delta as “the goose that lays the golden egg,” President Tinubu underscored the region’s strategic importance to Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
He cautioned that neglecting the region’s needs could have dire consequences for the country’s overall economic health.
“Yes, the Niger Delta is the goose that lays the golden egg. We must care for the goose; otherwise, we lose the golden egg,” he said.
The President assured PANDEF leaders that his administration is fully aware of the region’s challenges and is committed to fostering peace, economic growth, and infrastructural development.
Tinubu also spoke extensively on the political crisis in Rivers State, which has raised tensions in the oil-rich region.
Acknowledging PANDEF’s concerns, he revealed that he had been closely monitoring the situation and had intervened to prevent a prolonged crisis.
“I got your signal and your concern, particularly on Rivers State. I have been on the issue for quite some time. I foresaw the crisis festering for too long before I intervened. We reached an agreement, a written agreement, and both parties signed.”
Stressing the importance of upholding the Constitution and judicial rulings, Tinubu urged Niger Delta leaders to play a key role in implementing the court’s decisions.
“This is a nation governed by the rule of law. I should not be here as President without the rule of law. I have total confidence in our judiciary. We have expectations, and human beings can make errors, but once the court has spoken, that is it,” he stated.
He called on PANDEF leaders to return home and ensure the implementation of the court rulings.
“Please go back home and help implement the court rulings within the shortest possible time. I am putting the ball in your court. Help! Privately and openly intervene and counsel the governor. Pursue the path of peace and stability.”
Beyond politics, Tinubu assured the delegation that his government remains focused on community development, particularly projects that will improve the lives of people in the Niger Delta.
“Go back home and take charge of peace. If you need me, let me know. I have given the situation enough time and consideration. We cannot fall back, and we will not. The people of Rivers State will not suffer because of democracy. We worked together on it. They will not suffer. They must be protected.”
He praised the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and highlighted the progress made under its Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku.
“He is your son. We are all proud of him. Yes, there are lots of misadventurers around Nigeria on democracy. We will continue to work on preserving the integrity and character of our legislators.”
President Tinubu reiterated his administration’s focus on revitalizing the economy and implementing long-term projects that will benefit the Niger Delta.
“We cannot achieve Eldorado in one day. But we are on the path to it. We will succeed by the grace of God Almighty. We are resetting the economy, and it looks far better. We have funds for our children in college. Our medical colleges are also getting equipped.”
He also pointed to the ongoing coastal road project, which he said would unlock new economic opportunities for the region.
“We are already working with international companies to build ports in the Niger Delta States,” he added.
King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees and Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass Kingdom, commended President Tinubu for his commitment to the South-South and his administration’s recognition of Niger Delta leaders in key appointments.
“Your government has taken the bull by the horns, and we are sure you will succeed. We are here to give you our assurance and support. I can say now that God bless Nigeria and your government,” he said.
Former Akwa Ibom State Governor and PANDEF Co-Chair, Obong Victor Attah, urged the President to take further steps to resolve the Rivers State crisis, warning that instability in the state could have national consequences.
“Instability there has far-reaching consequences on the peace and stability of the nation,” he said.
Attah, who leads PANDEF’s reconciliation committee on the crisis, also called for renewed federal attention to infrastructure, environmental protection, seaports, and fiscal federalism in the South-South region.
The PANDEF delegation included former governors, senators, ministers, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and women representatives.
As the meeting concluded, President Tinubu reassured the Niger Delta leaders that his administration remains committed to protecting their interests, ensuring peace, and driving sustainable development in the region.
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