Niger Delta has fed Nigeria for 60 years with nothing to show for It — King Dakolo

ABUJA — His Royal Majesty, King Bubaraye Dakolo, the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom and Chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council, has decried the poor state of development in the Niger Delta, despite the region’s contributions to Nigeria’s economy for over six decades. Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, and his executive members at the Bayelsa Traditional Council of Chiefs in Yenagoa, King Dakolo urged PANDEF to develop a strategic plan to foster development and prevent exploitation of the region’s people.

“The Niger Delta has fed Nigeria for over 60 years, yet the region has nothing to show for it,” the monarch lamented. “It is time for a new approach to development and advocacy for our people.” King Dakolo called on the federal government to establish a Riverine Marine Safety Corps, similar to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), to ensure the safety and security of riverine communities in the Niger Delta. The monarch commended the Igali-led PANDEF executive, describing them as leaders with a “high scorecard” capable of driving meaningful change in the region. He presented two of his published books, including an award-winning work, to PANDEF Chairman Ambassador Igali.

In his response, Ambassador Igali emphasized PANDEF’s role in uniting the South-South geopolitical zone and advocating for the region’s development. He highlighted the importance of investing in agriculture, citing the success of rice cultivation in Vietnam as a model for the Niger Delta. “The region can feed itself if we harness our agricultural potential,” Igali said. He reiterated the need for environmental cleanup in the region, warning that it could take up to 30 years due to extensive pollution. Igali also stressed the importance of respecting the rights of the region’s people by companies operating in the oil and gas sector, whether onshore or offshore.

The PANDEF Chairman opposed merging the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) with the Ministry of Regional Development, arguing that it should remain an independent interventionist agency. He further emphasized that the next Chief Executive of the NNPC Limited should be appointed from the South-South geopolitical zone and urged President Bola Tinubu to sign the South-South Development Commission Bill into law without delay. PANDEF reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the Niger Delta’s interests and ensuring that the region’s contributions to the nation’s economy are recognized and rewarded with meaningful development.

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/02/niger-delta-has-fed-nigeria-for-60-years-with-nothing-to-show-for-it-king-dakolo/

Date: 11Feb25