The Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, has hailed the Niger Delta Women Conference organised by the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) as a timely and strategic platform for empowering women in the oil-rich region.
In a statement delivered at the event, co-sponsored by the British High Commission, Prof. Odu extended warm felicitations from the people of Rivers State to PANDEF leadership and all participants, describing the gathering as a vital avenue for dialogue, capacity building, and sustainable development.
“Women remain central to peacebuilding, economic growth, environmental stewardship, and overall progress in our communities,” she emphasised.
The deputy governor specially congratulated Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her unwavering commitment to women’s inclusion across leadership, entrepreneurship, governance, and other spheres of national life.
She urged continued protection of women’s rights and the creation of more opportunities for their advancement.
Prof. Odu encouraged delegates to tap into the renowned resilience, collective strength, and creativity of Niger Delta women to promote unity and lasting development in the region.
She also acknowledged the contributions of former First Lady, Dr. Patience Jonathan, praising her “words of wisdom and wealth of experience” as invaluable guidance for the conference.
The Rivers deputy governor further commended Bayelsa State Governor, His Excellency Douye Diri, for his encouraging messages and sustained support for women’s empowerment initiatives in the Niger Delta.
Reiterating appreciation to PANDEF for its vision and dedication, Prof. Odu expressed optimism that the deliberations would yield impactful outcomes for the advancement of women and the entire region.
The conference, held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, brought together women leaders and stakeholders to address key challenges and opportunities facing women in the Niger Delta.
