BREAKING: Agediga Sworn-In As National Coordinator Niger Delta Peace Network

By Osaro Michael, Benin

The Niger Delta Peace Network (NDPN) was formally inaugurated in Warri with a call for structured peace advocacy and coordinated engagement across the region ahead of the next electoral cycle.

The event was attended by my leaders and stakeholders across the Niger Delta region. While given goodwill messages, the leaders and stakeholders jointly commended Comrade Shedrack Agediga unwavering contributions towards reconciliation, peace-building, justice and equity in the Niger Delta region.
They expressed confidence that NDPN would fulfill its set objectives having Comrade Shedrack Agediga on the helms of the affairs of the group.

Speaking at the event, NDPN National Coordinator, Comrade Lucky Shedrack Agediga, said the network was established after months of planning and consultations to institutionalize peacebuilding in the Niger Delta. He described the platform as one focused on community mobilization and conflict prevention rather than agitation.

“The peace and development of our country is measured not by the strength of our conflicts but by the power of our collective resolve to live in peace,” Agediga said. “We are not just peace advocates. We are community mobilizers for peaceful coexistence.”

Agediga stressed that peace in the Niger Delta was critical to national stability, noting that the region’s oil and gas resources power the country’s economy. He warned that unrest would disrupt revenue, investment, and credible elections, while stability would protect national assets and reassure investors.

“Peaceful elections guarantee stability in the oil producing communities, protect critical national assets, reassure investors and preserve the livelihoods of millions of our people,” he said.

Addressing newly appointed state coordinators and national executives, Agediga said they must uphold integrity, diplomacy, and service. He announced a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct, stating that verified cases of financial impropriety or breach of public trust would lead to immediate termination of membership and withdrawal of appointment letters.

As part of its maiden program, NDPN will convene the Niger Delta Peace Summit, which will bring together traditional rulers, youth leaders, security agencies, oil and gas companies, civil society, and political actors. The summit aims to produce a Niger Delta Peace and Development Charter to guide conflict prevention, community engagement, and pre-election stability.

The network also plans to appoint 19 patrons, two from each Niger Delta state, to serve as pillars of support and guidance.

Agediga outlined the group’s broader goal of creating an environment where oil production thrives, communities prosper, and youths are engaged. Politically, he said NDPN would work to ensure the Niger Delta speaks with one coordinated voice on issues of equity, justice, and inclusion.

The inaugurated national leadership includes Amb. Sixtus Obinna Nwoke, Deputy National Coordinator, Dr. Sylvester Eromosele as National Secretary,
Lolo Gertrude Onyexachi Ehirjudu as National Women Leader, Dr Lukpata Hippolatus Ogar, national Director Sensitization and voters education, Pamela Ugochi Obiakpor National Director Welfare,
Barr. Priye Noel Kuete, LL.M as National Director Legal,
Dimkpa Emmanuel C. as National Youth Leader, and Chioma Ken-Mbagwu as Deputy Director Media South East,

Others included Temenu Pelumi Abayomi, Deputy Media Director South West, Imani ODEY, National Director Media, Orhadahwe Godwin Okite PhD, National Director Publications, Chief Apostle Benjamin Akpabio Abia State Coordinator, Engr. Dr. Nsikak Affia for Akwa Ibom, state coordinator,
Dr. Mary Kintum co-ordinator Cross River State, Barr Larry Mogbeyiteren Delta State coordinator, and Dr. Imagbe Victor for Edo State Coordinator, Hon.(Prince) Omojuwa Akinfemi Raymond, Ondo State Coordinator, Roy Stephenson Rivers State Coordinator.

Agediga urged the executives to return to their states and “light the torch of peace,” mobilize responsibly, and deliver results to make the Niger Delta a hub of prosperity and democratic maturity.