PANDEF Criticizes Tinubu Over N3.9tn Road Project Allocation

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed strong discontent regarding the allocation of N3.9 trillion for road projects approved by the Federal Executive Council, stating that the South-South region has been grossly shortchanged. Ambassador Godknows Igali, PANDEF's national chairman, emphasized that despite the South-South's significant contributions to Nigeria's economy through oil and gas resources, the region has been virtually excluded from the 26 major highway projects approved across 15 states.

Igali highlighted that the only project close to the region is the Benu-Cross River road, valued at N886 billion, and criticized the lack of projects traversing core South-South states. He warned that continued neglect could deepen infrastructural deficits and alienate the region.

PANDEF called for President Tinubu to urgently review the allocations to ensure fair distribution and address the deteriorating state of roads, particularly the East-West road, which is crucial for economic activities in the region.