By BONIFACE AKARAH

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has declared that relative peace and improved security have returned across the Niger Delta, calling on stakeholders to consolidate the gains as the region enters 2026.

In a New Year statement sent to News Express on Friday, January 2, 2026, and signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, PANDEF said sustained peace was critical to unlocking accelerated development in the South-South geopolitical zone.

The group noted that states across the region — including Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta and Edo — were recording stability, adding that even Rivers State had moved beyond the period of emergency rule to what it described as “unprecedented progress.”

“Across the region, we have witnessed relative peace and improved security,” PANDEF said, stressing that the end of the emergency era in Rivers State marked a significant turning point for the zone.

According to the forum, sustaining peace remains a collective responsibility, warning that any relapse into instability could stall economic and social progress.

“It is imperative that we all redouble our efforts to sustain this peace and collectively address, in a timely manner, any threats or breaches that may arise,” the statement said.

PANDEF linked security directly to development outcomes, arguing that closer collaboration among political leaders, traditional rulers, development agencies and communities would translate into improved welfare for residents.

The group highlighted healthcare, education, youth and women empowerment, infrastructure expansion and environmental remediation as priority areas requiring urgent attention in 2026, particularly in oil-impacted communities.

While expressing optimism about the new year, PANDEF also called for continued faith and unity, noting that the Niger Delta’s long-standing contribution to Nigeria’s economy placed a responsibility on leaders and citizens alike to protect peace and stability.

“Greater social and economic advancement will undoubtedly follow through closer collaboration in building and sustaining peace and security,” the forum added.