Ambassador-Boladei-Godknows-Igali-Leads-PANDEF-into-a-New-Era-of-National-Engagement

Ambassador Boladei-Godknows-Igali Leads PANDEF into a New Era of National Engagement

By Dave Ikiedei Asei | Wisdom Tide | December 11th, 2025

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) marked a historic milestone with the formal inauguration of its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) chapter in Abuja, signaling a bold expansion of its national presence and reinforcing its transformation into an organization driven by dialogue, development, and strategic partnership. At the center of this evolution is Ambassador Boladei-Godknows-Igali, the National Chairman of PANDEF, whose visionary stewardship continues to reposition the forum as a credible voice for national cohesion and sustainable solutions.

The inauguration, held at the NAF Conference Centre, showcased PANDEF’s renewed commitment to strengthening engagement with stakeholders across the country. Ambassador Igali, who presided over the ceremony on Friday, November 28, 2025, declared unequivocally that the Niger Delta’s foremost socio-political body has outgrown the narrow label of a pressure group. Instead, it has matured into a constructive force shaping national policies, championing justice, and fostering unity.

“PANDEF is not merely a forum of protest; it is a platform of solutions, a partner in building a Nigeria that is inclusive, equitable, and prosperous,” Igali affirmed, underscoring the organization’s strategic shift from agitation to collaboration.

A Vision Rooted in History, Strengthened by Unity

Ambassador Igali used the platform to reflect on PANDEF’s rich historical journey. He traced its origins from the merger of the South-South Constitutive Assembly and the South-South People’s Congress, which gave rise to the South-South People’s Assembly (SSPA) in 2004—an initiative powered by patriotism and a unified desire for regional progress. From those foundations, PANDEF emerged under the guidance of committed leaders, including the late Chief Tony Uranta.

For Igali, the story of PANDEF is one of resilience and shared identity. “We have always been one people. We remain one today… Attempts to divide us have failed before and will continue to fail,” he declared, reaffirming his belief in the inviolability of regional solidarity.

Though PANDEF had previously operated a liaison office in Abuja, Igali explained that the inauguration of the FCT chapter provides legitimacy, structure, and full operationalization, empowering Niger Deltans in the capital to organize effectively and speak with a unified, influential voice.

A National Platform with a National Mandate

In his acceptance remarks, the pioneer Chairman of the FCT chapter, Chief Premier Bello, described the new body as a “Nigeria project,” emphasizing that PANDEF’s values resonate far beyond regional lines. He pledged to lead an inclusive administration that prioritizes grassroots engagement, especially youth mobilization.

Bello further assured that the FCT chapter will deepen constructive collaboration with the Federal Government to ensure the Niger Delta remains a priority in democratic governance. “We will work with the Federal Government to see that the dividend of democracy gets to the last man,” he vowed, expressing gratitude to the national leadership for broadening the forum’s reach to Abuja and Lagos.

Repositioning the Region Through Strategic Development

The ceremony also featured strong calls for sustained federal investment in the Niger Delta, particularly in the maritime and blue economy sectors. HRM King Alfred Diette-Spiff, Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees (BOT), urged President Bola Tinubu to harness the region’s vast marine potential for national growth.

“It’s a very interesting area. It’s a rich area and with the Blue Economy, more could be harnessed,” the Royal Father noted, emphasizing the need for targeted development to unlock economic prosperity for coastal communities.

Goodwill messages followed from prominent national figures, including Hon. Fred Agbedi of the South-South Caucus in the House of Representatives and Chief Barr. Mike Ejiofor, who encouraged the newly inaugurated leaders to embrace innovation and adapt to the evolving dynamics of national advocacy.

A New Chapter for PANDEF, A Renewed Commitment to Nigeria

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to the new executive council, marking the official commencement of the FCT chapter’s activities. But beyond ceremony and celebration, the Abuja inauguration represents a profound strategic stride—one that highlights Ambassador Igali’s dedication to elevating PANDEF’s influence and ensuring the Niger Delta remains integral to national conversations on justice, governance, and development.

Under his leadership, PANDEF is transitioning into a dynamic institution—firm in its roots, bold in its aspirations, and unwavering in its mission to champion a more equitable and prosperous Nigeria for all.