Pan-Ijaw conference: Jonathan, Diri, top Niger delta dignitaries plan to attend

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, along with Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri and Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara, is set to attend the pre-Summit Conference for the 1st Pan-Ijaw Economic Summit 2024. This event will take place on October 17 and 18 in Bayelsa and precedes the main Pan-Ijaw summit scheduled for December 3 to 5 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Prof. Steve Azaiki, the principal organizer, announced on October 9, 2024, that governors from Edo, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Delta, Niger, and other dignitaries will also be present. The conference theme is “Environmental Regeneration and Economic Sustainability,” and it is being organized by the Azaiki Foundation in collaboration with the Ijaw National Congress (INC).

Azaiki noted that Ijaw people from Canada, Germany, France, Australia, and other countries will participate. He proposed that former Bayelsa Governor Sen. Seriake Dickson chair the Opening Ceremony.

The summit aims to address the infrastructural, developmental, and historical environmental challenges faced by the Ijaw people. It will gather industry experts, foreign partners, academic leaders, policymakers, and community representatives to explore innovative solutions for a sustainable and prosperous future in the Niger Delta.

The conference will also serve as a platform for discussions on socio-economic issues affecting the Ijaw community, such as poverty, unemployment, and environmental degradation, while promoting economic growth and job creation. Key focus areas include unlocking opportunities in the Marine and Blue Economy, transforming the Niger Delta coastline into a tourism destination, agricultural development, sustainable wetlands, and infrastructure improvements.

Additionally, the conference will address youth economic empowerment, transportation development, gender inclusivity, security, and women’s rights.