The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has voiced apprehension regarding the perceived sidelining of the Niger Delta region’s interests within the administration of President Bola Tinubu. This unease stems from the omission of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs during the recent allocation of ministerial portfolios, raising concerns about the region’s representation and development prospects.
PANDEF further alleges that the Federal Government has not effectively managed the resources belonging to the Niger Delta, as evidenced by the glaring lack of proper rural infrastructure within the region. The stark underdevelopment is a pointed reminder of the region’s unfulfilled potential despite its significant contribution to the nation’s oil resources.
Responding to a statement made by the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, Ogbonnaya Orji, who disclosed that Nigeria accrued a staggering $741.5 billion and N635.3 billion from the oil/gas and solid minerals sectors respectively between 1999 and 2020—spanning two decades—PANDEF’s spokesperson, Ken Robinson, expressed dissatisfaction with the prudent utilization of these funds for regional growth.
Robinson elaborated, “Throughout these 21 years, numerous cases of oil theft, official corruption, under-declaration of exports, and various other vices have hindered the equitable distribution of generated revenue.” He urged for a more transparent and effective channeling of these earnings toward the development of the region, highlighting the absence of proper mechanisms for revenue distribution and accountability.
The absence of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs from the list of assigned ministries has raised eyebrows within PANDEF. This omission has fueled concerns that the government might be contemplating the discontinuation of this ministry, an action that could provoke significant agitation and resistance from the region. PANDEF fears that such a move would exacerbate existing tensions and dissatisfaction within the Niger Delta community.
Additionally, Robinson lamented the evident infrastructural shortfalls in the Niger Delta despite its pivotal role in the nation’s oil production. He asserted, “Over the years, the government has frittered away the resources derived from the Niger Delta. This mismanagement is painfully evident in the deplorable state of rural infrastructure.” He pointed to the dire conditions of major federal roads in the region, underscoring that essential travel routes are often nearly impassable, negatively impacting daily lives and economic activities.
The spokesperson also highlighted the irony that, despite the substantial revenue generated from oil, the region’s development remains stunted. He criticized the skewed distribution of wealth, noting that a select few individuals have disproportionately benefited from the oil proceeds while the majority of the population continues to struggle amidst a lack of basic amenities and quality infrastructure.
Robinson concluded by referencing a recent statement by the President that pointed to the influence of powerful yet unelected individuals controlling the oil and importation sectors, further exacerbating the perception of economic inequality and resource mismanagement within the Niger Delta.
In essence, PANDEF’s concerns spotlight the urgent need for equitable resource allocation, transparent governance, and strategic developmental initiatives within the Niger Delta region to rectify the longstanding grievances and promote inclusive growth.
