The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has urged Miss Usoro Akpabio, the recently nominated Managing Director of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), to embark on transformative reforms that will elevate the South-South region’s global standing.
PANDEF stressed that her leadership should not only bring about significant regional progress but also reflect the renewed hope and vision of the federal government.
In a formal statement signed by PANDEF President, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the organisation extended its heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Miss Akpabio to this critical position.
The Forum described the appointment as both timely and symbolic, coming at a period when strong, visionary leadership is essential to address the long-standing developmental challenges of the Niger Delta.
“The appointment is a clear expression of Mr. President’s foresight and confidence in your lifelong dedication to nation-building,” the statement read. “Your emergence as the first Managing Director of the SSDC comes at a pivotal time. We are confident that your tenure will be marked by bold reforms and a renewed push to place the South-South on the global development agenda.”
President Tinubu officially nominated Miss Usoro Akpabio on May 8, 2025, to serve as the pioneer Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the SSDC, pending confirmation by the National Assembly. Her selection places her at the helm of a newly created federal agency tasked with catalysing growth and sustainable development in the South-South geopolitical zone.
The SSDC was formally established in March 2025 through legislation championed by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong of Cross River South and subsequently signed into law by President Tinubu. The Commission was conceived as part of a broader national strategy to address regional disparities, mirroring similar development bodies set up in other parts of Nigeria.
It is also seen as a corrective mechanism to address the shortcomings of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), particularly in the areas of project implementation and environmental sustainability.
Miss Akpabio brings to the role a wealth of experience in public policy, governance, and grassroots mobilisation. She began her career as a policy analyst within the Akwa Ibom State Government and has since earned a reputation for effective leadership and community empowerment. Her commitment to local development is further underscored by her active engagement in community projects through her foundation.
PANDEF concluded its message with optimism, stating that it expects Akpabio’s leadership to be both historic and impactful. “We trust in your capacity to meet and exceed the expectations of this moment. The South-South region deserves visionary stewardship, and we believe your administration will set a benchmark in development policy and execution.”