PANDEF chairman Igali criticizes Niger Delta exclusion from major federal projects
via Punch Nigeria14 min read
Dr. Godknows Igali, National Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum, stated that excluding the Niger Delta from major federal projects is unfair, especially since the region's resources largely fund these projects. He highlighted that 26 road projects totaling N3.9 trillion were announced, with only one near the Niger Delta, not within its core states. Additionally, the renovation and modernization plans for Lagos and Apapa ports, funded by a 拢746 million loan, excluded older Niger Delta ports like Port Harcourt, Onne, Koko, and Warri. Igali emphasized that the Niger Delta faces significant environmental challenges due to 70 years of oil production and inadequate infrastructure development, making construction costly. He called for a consistent remediation program beyond Ogoniland and improved infrastructure. While acknowledging recent improvements in the Niger Delta Development Commission's governance, he noted the absence of the Presidential Advisory Council. PANDEF has appealed to the Presidency and relevant ministries regarding these concerns but has received no response. Igali reiterated PANDEF's stance on resource control, advocating for a return to the federal system where regions managed their resources, as practiced by Nigeria's founding fathers. He also urged Niger Delta people to elect leaders committed to the region's progress in the upcoming 2027 general elections.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Child health experts are cautioning parents against bathing babies and children with cold water, particularly during Nigeria's rainy season, due to risks of hypothermia and increased susceptibility to infections. Dr. Abdurrazzaq Alege, Head of Paediatrics at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Katsina, explained that babies lose heat faster than adults and are vulnerable to hypothermia in cold environments. While cold water does not directly cause pneumonia, it can weaken a child's immunity or trigger complications for those with underlying conditions like asthma and sickle cell disease. Dr. Ayodele Renner, a Consultant Paediatrician, added that a drop in body temperature stresses a child's system, affecting feeding, growth, and overall well-being. Both experts recommend using lukewarm water, ensuring a warm room, and immediately drying and covering the baby after bathing. They also dismissed the belief that cold water strengthens babies as unfounded.
Former Super Eagles and Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi believes Stanley Nwabali's return to South African club Chippa United could lead to his recall to the national team. Akpeyi stated that Nwabali's absence from the Super Eagles squad was primarily due to a lack of regular club football, not a decline in ability. Nwabali was Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, helping the team reach the final, and remained number one through the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. However, he has not played for the national team since leaving Chippa United by mutual consent in February, missing recent campaigns and friendlies. Akpeyi emphasized Nwabali's proven quality for Nigeria, stating, "He has been excellent, absolutely excellent. Faultless for Nigeria. He has taken them to places." Akpeyi explained that being unattached to a team makes national team invitations difficult. He added that Nwabali's decision to return to Chippa United, where he began his career, offers him the best chance to regain form and earn the trust of the coaches. Nwabali aims to establish himself at Chippa United as the 2026/27 South African Premiership season starts on August 1, with an eye on Nigeria's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign beginning in September.
Stand-up comedian and actor, Senator, stated that the Nigerian comedy industry has created numerous opportunities for practitioners, encouraging entertainers to explore various creative areas. In an interview, Senator noted the industry's evolution beyond traditional stand-up comedy, with the rise of skits, sitcoms, and event hosting. He explained that while stand-up was once the primary focus, the emergence of social media skits, series, and sitcoms, along with the demand for humorous MCs and comp猫res for events, has broadened the scope. Senator highlighted that these changing industry demands have led many comedians, including himself, to diversify their skills while retaining their passion for comedy. He described the entertainment sector as rich with possibilities, particularly for new talents seeking sustainable careers. Despite this growth, Senator acknowledged that the industry's expansion has not been as rapid as some anticipated.