Delta State Government has reassured residents that while it continues to prioritise infrastructure development, it is equally pursuing a comprehensive economic strategy designed to attract major investments, boost industrial growth, strengthen agriculture and create sustainable jobs.
The Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen, stated this during a media briefing at his office in the state secretariat in Asaba, where he outlined the administration’s plans to reposition the state’s economy for long-term growth and employment.
Ekedayen explained that although the government remains the largest employer in Delta, meaningful and lasting job creation is largely driven by the private sector worldwide.
“Government is not primarily set up to provide jobs. The civil service is already saturated, yet the number of job seekers keeps rising. The responsibility of government is to create the right environment that attracts investors,” he said.
He noted that government-owned commercial ventures often face challenges due to political interference, which can weaken long-term efficiency. As a result, the state is focusing on policies and reforms that will endure beyond any single administration.
According to him, continued investments in infrastructure, improved connectivity, enhanced security and urban renewal are already changing how investors view Delta State—especially Asaba and its surrounding economic corridors.
He cited increasing property values, a steady influx of people from neighbouring states, and rapid growth in the hospitality and entertainment sectors as clear signs of growing investor confidence.
Ekedayen also revealed that the Koko-Kwale Free Trade Zone, revitalised under Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori after outstanding licence renewals were settled, has witnessed notable expansion. The number of operating companies has grown from just two or three to 11, with more investors expressing interest. The state has also approved additional road infrastructure to support industrial activities in the zone.
He added that economic activities are picking up along the Koko axis, drawing refinery-related investments and renewed interest from fertiliser producers.
To support entrepreneurs and small businesses, the state recently entered into a partnership with the Bank of Industry under a jointly managed funding programme aimed at improving access to affordable loans. Through the scheme, eligible businesses can obtain financing at interest rates as low as nine per cent far below commercial bank rates, which often exceed 30 per cent.
Ekedayen emphasised that the process is transparent, as loan applications are handled directly by the Bank of Industry without interference from the ministry.
Delta State has also secured approval under the Federal Government’s Special Agro-Processing Zone programme, backed by the African Development Bank. This positions the state to attract agro-processors in areas such as cassava, poultry, animal feed production and light manufacturing.
He highlighted Delta’s rich agricultural resources, particularly cassava and oil palm, as a strong base for agro-industrial development and export expansion.
Through a public-private partnership with Median Ville Agro Limited, approximately 3,500 hectares of land have already been cleared for mechanised farming. Cassava, vegetables and greenhouse crops are currently being cultivated to serve urban markets and the hospitality industry.
The commissioner further spoke about the Delta State Azure Mangrove Project, a climate-focused initiative aimed at diversifying revenue. The project recently received regulatory approval from the National Council on Climate Change.
He explained that the initiative seeks to generate income from the state’s mangrove ecosystems through global carbon credit markets, allowing international companies to offset emissions while providing sustainable revenue for coastal communities.
