COMMUNIQUÉ ISSUED AT THE END OF A MEDIA ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSION ORGANIZED BY GBARAMATUVOICE JOURNALISTS ON THE STATE OF DEVELOPMENT IN THE NIGER DELTA
1. Arising from a critical media roundtable discussion held at the Niger Delta Media Centre in Warri, Delta State, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, GbaramatuVoice journalists have collectively resolved to address the urgent need for proactive leadership, transparency, and accountability in the Niger Delta region. The session, which was hosted by Aghogho Inikor, provided an in-depth examination of the governance failures, infrastructural decay, environmental degradation, and economic stagnation that continue to plague the region despite its vast natural resources.
2. The journalists recognized that while national leaders are often held accountable for the challenges facing the Niger Delta, local and grassroots leaders have a far greater responsibility in driving meaningful change. They noted that regional leaders must rise above excuses and take decisive steps to ensure sustainable development rather than relying solely on federal interventions. The discussion underscored the need for more proactive governance at all levels, with an emphasis on effective representation, sincerity in leadership, and a people-centered approach to resource management.
3. Concerns were raised over the culture of political and community leaders using their positions for personal enrichment rather than addressing the needs of their communities. It was emphasized that the Niger Delta continues to suffer due to a leadership structure that prioritizes self-interest over service. The journalists stressed that community leaders and political officeholders must understand that true leadership is about commitment to the people who entrusted them with power. They called for a radical shift in governance, where leaders focus on tangible development, infrastructural progress, and the creation of opportunities for the people rather than hoarding wealth for personal luxuries.
4. The discussion highlighted the role of citizens in holding their leaders accountable, noting that the failure of leadership is partly due to the complacency of the people. The journalists urged Niger Deltans to become more actively involved in governance by demanding transparency and challenging ineffective leadership. It was agreed that without a collective voice from the people, the cycle of neglect and mismanagement would continue.
5. The issue of environmental degradation was extensively addressed, with concerns raised over the continuous pollution of the region’s waterways and land by oil exploration activities. The journalists condemned the apparent indifference of both government agencies and multinational corporations to the devastating effects of oil spills, gas flaring, and ecological destruction. They emphasized that while companies extracting resources from the Niger Delta continue to profit, the region itself remains deprived of basic infrastructure such as hospitals, schools, and clean water.
6. The discussion also exposed the misuse of community funds by some local leaders who enter into secret agreements with oil companies to enrich themselves at the expense of the people. The journalists decried the practice of certain individuals negotiating on behalf of communities, only to divert the funds for personal gain. They urged traditional rulers, community heads, and political leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people rather than engaging in corrupt practices that further impoverish the region.
7. The media’s role in pushing for change was strongly emphasized, with a commitment by GbaramatuVoice journalists to intensify investigative reporting and expose acts of misgovernance. It was resolved that media professionals must remain steadfast in holding leaders accountable, ensuring that the truth is brought to light regardless of pressure or intimidation. The journalists reaffirmed their dedication to fearless journalism, pledging to highlight both the failures and achievements of those in leadership positions.
8. The roundtable discussion concluded with a call for a total review of development commissions and interventionist agencies that have failed to deliver results. The journalists stated that if these agencies are not effectively serving the people, they should be restructured or scrapped entirely. They emphasized that appointments into key positions should not be based on political loyalty but on competence and a clear vision for regional development.
9. In light of the discussions, GbaramatuVoice journalists resolved to intensify their advocacy for a new era of leadership in the Niger Delta—one that is rooted in accountability, service, and people-oriented governance. They called on Niger Delta leaders at all levels to either take responsibility and act decisively for the development of the region or step aside for those willing to serve with integrity.
10. This communiqué is issued as a reflection of the collective position of GbaramatuVoice journalists in their commitment to a better, more prosperous, and truly developed Niger Delta.
- Signed:
Enaibo Asiayei
Managing Editor,
GbaramatuVoice International
