President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday met with leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) at the Council Chamber of the State House, Abuja, to discuss critical issues affecting the oil-rich region.
The meeting, which began at 4:15 PM with the President’s arrival, was attended by key political figures, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from the Niger Delta. It was the first official engagement between the Tinubu administration and PANDEF since the passing of its convener, Chief Edwin Clark, in February.
Before discussions commenced, President Tinubu requested a minute of silence in honor of Chief Clark, recognizing his contributions to the region’s development and advocacy.
Among those present were PANDEF’s Chairman, Board of Trustees, King Alfred Diete-Spiff; Co-Chairman, Obong Victor Attah; National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali; former governors Seriake Dickson, Liyel Imoke, and Tele Ikuru; as well as Niger Delta activist Ann-Kio Briggs.
Top government officials, including Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo and Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, were also in attendance, alongside presidential aides such as Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
The discussions focused on key developmental concerns in the Niger Delta, including infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment. The meeting is expected to shape government policy toward addressing long-standing issues in the region.
