At 51 and 60: PANDEF Hails Fubara, Dickson for Exemplary Leadership and Service to Niger Delta
By Wilson Macaulay
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organisation of the South-South geopolitical zone, has joined Nigerians across the country and in the Diaspora to celebrate two outstanding sons of the Niger Delta—Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and former Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson—as they mark their 51st and 60th birthday anniversaries respectively.
In a goodwill message signed by PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, and issued by the Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, the Forum described the milestone anniversaries as a moment to thank God Almighty for the lives of leaders whose impact in governance, peace-building, and democratic consolidation continues to positively shape the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
PANDEF noted that although the celebrations come at a solemn period for the region, the Niger Delta remains grateful for the gift of leadership exemplified by Governor Fubara and Senator Dickson, both of whom, the Forum said, have consistently demonstrated service, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to equity, fairness, and justice.
Fubara at 51: Redefining Governance in Rivers State
At 51 years of age, PANDEF said Governor Siminalayi Fubara has distinguished himself as one of the most dynamic and impactful leaders of his generation, driving governance in Rivers State with clarity, speed, and a people-focused vision.
According to the statement, the Fubara administration has continued to transform the socio-economic landscape of Rivers State “in spectacular and distinctive manners and speed,” positioning the state as a leading centre of growth, stability, and development in Nigeria. PANDEF commended the Governor for prioritising peace, infrastructure, and inclusive development, noting that his leadership has strengthened public confidence in democratic governance.
Dickson at 60: Statesmanship Anchored on Principle
Equally, PANDEF celebrated Senator Seriake Dickson on the occasion of his diamond jubilee, describing his political journey as a shining example of principled leadership and enduring statesmanship.
Reflecting on his tenure as Governor of Bayelsa State and his current role in the Senate, the Forum said Senator Dickson remains “a voice of reason, candour, and moral clarity” in national discourse, consistently contributing to legislative debates that advance democracy, good governance, and national cohesion.
PANDEF added that Dickson’s courage, intellectual depth, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law have earned him wide respect across political divides and beyond the Niger Delta.
Honouring Service to the Niger Delta and Nigeria
The Forum particularly praised the individual and collective contributions of Governor Fubara and Senator Dickson to peace, stability, and sustainable development in the South-South region, stressing that their leadership has continued to reinforce nation-building and democratic consolidation in Nigeria.
PANDEF also took the opportunity to acknowledge the sacrifices of other leaders and selfless citizens of the Niger Delta whose relentless efforts, though often uncelebrated, remain critical to the advancement of the region.
Prayers for Greater Years Ahead
Conveying the collective prayers of the Niger Delta people, PANDEF prayed for the continued guidance, wisdom, and blessings of Almighty God upon Governor Fubara, Senator Dickson, and all leaders committed to the progress of the region and the nation.
The statement, dated 28th January, 2026, reaffirmed PANDEF’s enduring role as a moral compass and rallying point for unity, responsible leadership, and sustainable development across the Niger Delta.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JANUARY 30TH 2026)

