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Niger Deltans, represented by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), have urged the Federal Government to improve infrastructures throughout Cross River State in order to help residents deal with the loss of oil wells.
They contended that this lack of development has had a considerable effect on the state’s economy, despite its abundance in solid minerals, agriculture, and forestry.
During a courtesy visit to Governor Bassey Otu on Wednesday, PANDEF’s National Chairman, Godknows Igali, stressed the need for the inclusion of Cross River in regional development projects.
He underscored the necessity for the Federal Government to enact the bill that would establish the South-South Development Commission, which would empower the region to tackle its developmental hurdles more effectively.
The chairman pointed out that the poor condition of infrastructure, especially the East-West Road, poses a significant issue, as the degrading state of the road has prolonged travel time from Port Harcourt to Calabar.
To tackle the economic difficulties in the region, he proposed investing in alternative sectors such as agriculture, gas, and solid minerals. The group plans to create a South-South Development and Investment Fund to generate financial resources for essential economic sectors.
Earlier, Governor Bassey Otu expressed appreciation for PANDEF’s advocacy, reiterating Cross River’s dedication to regional cooperation. He emphasized the necessity for stronger collaboration among the state, PANDEF, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to drive economic and infrastructural progress.
He remarked, “It is time for us, as a region, to move beyond oil. Many global economies have diversified, and we must follow suit. Cross River is still part of this prosperous region, but past injustices have deprived us of our rightful share. Nonetheless, justice cannot be overlooked indefinitely—our brothers will unite with us to demand what is just,” Governor Otu asserted.
