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PANDEF Lagos Chapter Stages Grand Solidarity Outing at Unilag in Honour of Governor Diri

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Prof. Hope Eghagha and others at the event
Prof. Hope Eghagha and others at the event

PANDEF Lagos Chapter , Grand Solidarity Outing , University of Lagos , Governor Douye Diri,

In a resounding display of unity and purpose, the Lagos Chapter of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) on 5 November 2025 led a powerful delegation of its Executive Council and members, under the able and cerebral leadership of Prof. Hope Eghagha, to the Tayo Aderinokun Lecture Theatre, University of Lagos, Akoka Campus to solidarise with and honour HE Sen. Duoye Diri Executive Governor of Bayelsa State’s Book Presentation Launch Public Lecture and Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance in his honour.

The occasion marked a historic convergence of thought leadership, regional pride, and national aspiration as PANDEF staged its signature Solidarity Outing in honour of His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri, Executive Governor of Bayelsa State.

The event, which commenced at 11:00 AM, featured the formal presentation and launch of a seminal book, a public lecture, and the institution of a Professorial Chair on Leadership and Good Governance — all dedicated to celebrating Governor Diri’s exemplary contributions to democratic consolidation and ethical governance in Nigeria. The formal Book Presentation, Launch, Public Lecture cum Institution of Professorial Chair had the HE. Sen. Kashim Shettima, GCON, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as Chairman of the Occasion, HE Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Executive Governor of Plateau State, as Keynote Speaker, HE Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor of Lagos State, as Host Governor, High Chief Emonena Victor Wayles Egukawhore (JP) as Chief Book Launcher, Prof. Folasade T. Ogunsola, Vice Chancellor, UNILAG as Chief Host, Prof. John Lekan Oyefara, Managing Director/CEO, UNILAG Consult Limited and the veteran O.A.P Mr. Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Political Analyst TVC as the Book Reviewer.

A Tribute to Visionary Leadership

PANDEF’s presence underscored its unwavering commitment to promoting the values of equity, justice, and sustainable development across the Niger Delta and beyond. The Professorial Chair, a landmark academic initiative, will serve as a beacon for nurturing future leaders grounded in integrity, service, and strategic foresight — ideals embodied by Governor Diri throughout his public service journey.

Speaking at the event, PANDEF Lagos Chapter Chairperson emphasized:

“This outing is not just a tribute to one man’s legacy, but a clarion call to institutionalize the kind of leadership our nation desperately needs — visionary, inclusive, and accountable.”

Political Symbolism and Strategic Momentum

The outing also served as a strategic reaffirmation of PANDEF’s role as a moral compass and political force within Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape. By aligning with intellectual and civic institutions, PANDEF continues to shape the discourse on governance, federalism, and regional empowerment.

Governor Diri’s recognition by the academic community signals a growing consensus around the need for leadership that transcends rhetoric and delivers real impact. The event drew dignitaries, scholars, civil society leaders, and youth representatives — a testament to the cross-generational appeal of PANDEF’s mission.

Looking Ahead

As PANDEF Lagos Chapter and indeed PANDEF World-wide continues to galvanize support for transformative governance, Wednesday’s outing marks a pivotal moment in its journey. It is a reminder that solidarity, when rooted in noble ideals, can inspire change, elevate discourse, and build bridges across regions and generations.

According to PANDEF, “For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:

PANDEF Lagos Chapter

Secretariat

📞 +234 806 325 9454, 08102607676, 0803 409 2506.”

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