The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has urged residents of the Niger Delta to embrace the year 2026 with renewed commitment to peace, unity and sustainable development, describing the new year as an opportunity to deepen progress across the South-South region.
In a New Year message signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, the group expressed gratitude to God for the gift of a new year and commended the resilience of the people of the Niger Delta throughout 2025.
“As we step into the year 2026, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) joins the entire people of the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria in giving thanks to God Almighty for the grace of a New Year,” the statement said.
PANDEF extended goodwill to political leaders, traditional rulers, faith leaders and development institutions across the region, acknowledging their roles in promoting stability and growth.
The forum also recognised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) for their contributions to development efforts in the region.
According to the group, the new year presents another opportunity to strengthen the Niger Delta’s position as a key contributor to national progress, stressing that development must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of the people.
It highlighted priority areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, women and youth empowerment, as well as environmental remediation following decades of oil pollution.
PANDEF noted that the region has continued to witness relative peace and improved security across states including Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Edo, adding that Rivers State has also recorded positive developments in recent times.
The forum called on residents and stakeholders to sustain the prevailing peace and remain vigilant, noting that stability remains essential for social and economic advancement across the Niger Delta.
It also urged the people of the region to remain steadfast in faith, while reflecting on the Niger Delta’s historic role as a major driver of Nigeria’s economy.
“Let us continue to draw guidance from the Scriptures, as stated in Psalms 60:12: ‘With God we shall gain the victory, and He will trample down our enemies,’” the statement added.
PANDEF concluded by wishing the people of the Niger Delta and Nigerians at large a peaceful and prosperous New Year, expressing optimism that 2026 would usher in renewed hope, peace and development for the region.
