Delta Seeks Private Investment To Bridge Housing Gap, Boost Economy
By STELLA JOHNSON OGBOVOVEH
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Public-Private Partnerships
THE Delta State Government has reiterated its commitment to partnering with private investors to address the state’s housing deficit and accelerate economic development. The assurance was given by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, during a proposal presentation by the management of Hand of God Construction Company Limited at the Government House.
Dr. Emu said government alone could not provide all the housing and infrastructure required by the state’s growing population. He stressed that strategic collaboration with credible private investors remained essential to meeting development needs and improving the quality of life for residents.
He stated that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori would continue to create an enabling environment for investment through infrastructure development, policy support and business-friendly initiatives designed to attract local and international investors.
Delta Positioned as Investment Destination
The SSG described Delta as one of Nigeria’s most attractive investment destinations. He cited the state’s peaceful environment, strategic location and sustained investment in infrastructure as key factors driving investor confidence.
According to him, Delta has witnessed increasing domestic direct investment in recent years, particularly in real estate, commerce and other productive sectors. He noted that the government welcomes genuine investors whose projects contribute to economic growth and employment.
Dr. Emu, however, warned that the state would not support land speculation or land grabbing. He emphasized that only credible investment proposals capable of delivering measurable socio-economic benefits would receive government backing.
He also encouraged investors to participate in the forthcoming Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, describing it as a platform for building global partnerships, attracting capital and unlocking new business opportunities.
Investor Proposes 2,000 Affordable Housing Units
Presenting the company’s proposal, the Managing Director of Hand of God Construction Company Limited, Engr. David Nwachukwu, unveiled plans to develop 2,000 affordable housing units across Delta State within 24 months.
He said the project would create about 34,000 direct and indirect jobs while contributing significantly to the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The proposed housing scheme is targeted at civil servants and low- and middle-income earners through long-term mortgage financing.
Nwachukwu explained that the company had previously partnered with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN) and other mortgage institutions to deliver similar housing estates across the country and intends to replicate that model in Delta State.
Modern Estate with Mortgage Support
The developer disclosed that the project would be financed through existing housing finance facilities, noting that access to mortgage funding through the FMBN and other financial partners makes financing readily available.
He added that the proposed estate would feature modern infrastructure, commercial centres and essential amenities despite its focus on affordable housing.
According to him, construction would begin immediately after land allocation and statutory approvals are secured. He expressed optimism that the groundbreaking ceremony could take place within weeks, while the first phase of the project could be completed within 12 months.
Nwachukwu said the proposed investment aligns with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision of expanding access to quality housing and improving living conditions across the state. He assured the government that the partnership would be commercially beneficial and would not require free land allocation, as the state would receive appropriate financial returns from the investment.
