Delta State Secretary to the Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, revealed that the state has emerged as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing economies, thanks to conscious expansion strategies. He made this disclosure during an interactive session with members of the Press, alongside the Commissioners for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Agriculture, Trade and Investment, and the Economic Adviser to the Governor.
According to Dr. Emu, the government is prioritizing road infrastructure to open up new business corridors and ensure Delta remains a destination of choice. “Delta State is now a migrant destination for business. Our investment in road networks is unlocking access to underserved areas, and our next priority is ensuring a robust power mix to energize growth,” Dr. Emu stated.
The Economic Adviser to the Governor, Dr. Barry Gbe, said the Abuja meeting is particularly strategic as it would involve the World Bank and the Federal Government’s Rural Electrification Agency (REA), with funds set aside to power 25 communities per State. “About 400 companies have already indicated interest in this stakeholders’ roundtable. For Delta, this is a major opportunity to deepen power access and strengthen the investment climate,” he explained.
The Commissioner for Agriculture, Barrister Val Areyenka, highlighted the State’s comparative advantage in cassava and rice production.
He noted that inadequate power has hindered cassava processing, but with new energy projects and prospective partnerships from Brazil—one of the world’s experienced and largest agricultural investors—these challenges would be tackled. “Our rice mill in Aboh Ogwashi-Uku produces 50 tons of rice daily, and we intend to attract partners from Brazil to expand this capacity. With the signing of the anti-open grazing law, Delta is set to embrace ranching, ending farmers-herders clashes while boosting agribusiness,” he added.
The Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr. Samuel Oligida, stressed that peace and security are prerequisites for business growth, and Delta has made significant strides in this regard. He pointed to ongoing market development projects, including the construction of the State’s largest market at the Udu Harbour Market in Udu local government area as evidence of the government’s commitment to providing business-friendly infrastructure.
He further disclosed that discussions in Brazil will also focus on solid minerals, as Delta has abundant deposits including coal.
Dr. Emu further revealed that the State Government has rolled out measures to improve the welfare of its citizens, including the approval of ₦10 billion to clear outstanding pension commitments, disbursement of ₦1.8 billion to support 10,000 widows across the State, and plans for a mega empowerment programme in the last quarter of 2025 to boost household incomes and small businesses.
The SSG also disclosed that large arable lands in the State’s Forest reserves, hitherto encroached upon by criminal elements, would be released for commercial farming. “This will not only provide land for investors but also deny kidnappers and marauders the cover they exploit. It is a win-win for Deltans and for investors,” he emphasized.
With its proactive steps in infrastructure, agriculture, trade, power, infrastructure, power, and social welfare, Delta State is positioning itself as an investment hub and a model of inclusive and integrated economic growth. Delta State’s economy has grown by 51% over the past six years, driven by the non-oil sector. The state’s GDP is projected to reach ₦6.77 trillion by 2027, with a focus on sustainable and inclusive economic growth
