PANDEF Calls For Positioning Of South-South On Global Stage

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on the newly appointed managing director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), Miss Usoro Akpabio, to implement transformative reforms that will elevate the region’s profile on the global map.

In a statement issued by the president of PANDEF, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the organisation extended its gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the appointment.

He expressed confidence in Akpabio’s ability to achieve the high standards anticipated by the president, emphasising that her tenure should be marked by significant reforms focused on the South-South region.
The statement highlighted “the appointment not only reflects Mr. President’s vision but also recognises your lifelong dedication to serving our great nation, Nigeria.”

The statement read, “Your selection as the first managing director comes at a crucial time, and we are optimistic that your leadership will be memorable in Nigeria’s history. We trust that you will deliver exemplary results, facilitating reforms that catapult the South-South onto the global stage.”

On May 8, 2025, President Bola Tinubu nominated Miss Usoro Akpabio as the managing director/chief executive officer of the SSDC, pending confirmation by the National Assembly before she officially takes office.

Her appointment places her in a key position to tackle the developmental challenges facing the Niger Delta region. Akpabio began her career as a policy analyst within the Akwa Ibom State government, bringing years of experience in governance, public policy, and community engagement.
Her involvement in project execution and grassroots mobilisation, particularly through her foundation, showcases her commitment to improving her community.

The South-South Development Commission (SSDC) was established by the federal government to address regional needs, following the creation of similar agencies for other areas in the country. The legislative foundation for the commission was put in place by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross River South and was signed into law by President Tinubu in March 2025. This move aims to build on previous efforts, addressing the challenges that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) faced in fostering development and environmental sustainability in the South-South region.