Vice President Kashim Shettima, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, business leader Tony Elumelu and other prominent stakeholders have called for increased domestic and foreign investment in Delta State, describing it as one of Nigeria’s most promising destinations for industrial growth and economic diversification. The appeal was made at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 held in Asaba.
Speaking at the summit, Vice President Shettima said Delta possesses the strategic assets needed to become a major investment hub, including extensive coastlines, abundant natural gas reserves, seaports, agricultural resources and a skilled workforce. He urged investors to take advantage of the Federal Government’s economic reforms, arguing that improving macroeconomic indicators and renewed investor confidence present significant opportunities for long-term growth.
In her keynote address, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala described Delta as a potential industrial powerhouse capable of emerging alongside Lagos as one of Nigeria’s principal engines of economic growth. She encouraged the state to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), strengthen manufacturing, expand agro-processing, develop marine infrastructure and position itself within global supply chains.
Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, also reaffirmed his group’s commitment to partnering with the Delta State Government, particularly in electricity generation and energy infrastructure. He noted that reliable power supply remains essential for industrialisation, job creation and attracting private sector investment into the state.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori unveiled a US$100 million investment fund aimed at de-risking strategic private sector projects and attracting both local and international investors. He also highlighted incentives introduced by the state government, including tax waivers, land availability for commercial agriculture and reforms designed to improve the ease of doing business.
The summit reflects growing efforts by subnational governments to diversify their economies beyond oil dependence by attracting investment into manufacturing, agriculture, renewable energy, logistics and technology. Analysts argue that while investment promotion is important, sustained economic growth will also depend on policy consistency, infrastructure development, transparency, security and effective implementation of reforms that improve the business environment.
