The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has described the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a leading national movement and one of the most attractive political platforms in the country ahead of the 2027 general elections, commending its National Leader, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for what it described as his courage, vision and commitment to national development.
The commendation came when the Chairman of PANDEF, Ambassador Dr. Boladei Igali, led a high-powered delegation of the socio-political organization on a courtesy visit to Senator Dickson at his residence in Abuja.
The meeting focused on national issues, democratic development, the future of the Niger Delta, and the role political parties can play in promoting good governance and sustainable development across the country.
Speaking during the visit, Ambassador Igali praised the former Bayelsa State governor for spearheading the establishment of the NDC, noting that the emergence of the party has enriched Nigeria’s democratic space and provided a credible platform for citizens seeking political change and national renewal.
According to him, the NDC has, within a short period of its existence, evolved into a formidable national movement that is attracting support from diverse groups across the country.
“We came to pay a courtesy call on His Excellency, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, the National Leader of the NDC, first to congratulate him as a son of the Niger Delta for having the courage to come up with a national movement, and also to discuss the activities of the party,” Igali said.
He stated that PANDEF has been closely observing developments within the party and is encouraged by the rapid growth and expanding national appeal of the NDC.
“PANDEF is engaging with leaders of various political parties on issues pertaining to the Niger Delta and the country at large. We had a very fruitful discussion, and we appreciate the fact that the NDC has become a leading national movement and perhaps the party of choice for many Nigerians today,” he added.
The PANDEF chairman noted that the forum views the emergence of vibrant political alternatives as critical to the growth of democracy, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
He explained that the visit formed part of PANDEF’s ongoing consultations with political parties, government institutions, and influential stakeholders across the country aimed at advancing the interests of the Niger Delta and contributing to national development.
According to him, the forum has embarked on extensive engagements with leaders of different political parties and intends to sustain such interactions as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections.
“We have met with a number of other party leaders; some have come to see us, while we have visited others. We will continue to make our contributions towards making Nigeria a better place,” he said.
Igali stressed that PANDEF’s consultations are focused on fostering dialogue, promoting peace, encouraging inclusive governance, and ensuring that issues affecting the Niger Delta region receive the attention they deserve within the national discourse.
He emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between political parties, regional organizations, civil society groups, and government institutions in tackling the country’s socio-economic and security challenges.
The former diplomat said the challenges confronting Nigeria require collective action and constructive engagement among all stakeholders, adding that organizations such as PANDEF would continue to play their role in supporting initiatives that promote equity, justice, development, and national unity.
The PANDEF leader also used the opportunity to congratulate the leadership of the NDC at all levels, including its National Chairman, members of the National Working Committee, state executives, and party supporters across the federation.
“Once again, we congratulate His Excellency, Senator Dickson. We also congratulate the Chairman of the party, the national leadership, and the teeming members and supporters of the NDC from across the country. We wish them all the very best in the evolving democratic dispensation,” he stated.
Political observers view PANDEF’s endorsement as significant given the organization’s influence within the Niger Delta region and its longstanding role in shaping conversations around regional development, resource control, national unity, and democratic governance.
The visit also highlighted the growing interactions between the NDC and major socio-political organizations across the country as the party seeks to consolidate its structures and expand its reach ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Members of the PANDEF delegation included the Deputy National Chairman of the forum, Hon. Bassey Nyong Ekefre, and the National Treasurer, Mrs. Ifeoma Onyeoma Agbomah.
