Delta Targets Global Investors With 2026 Economic Summit
By PAULINA NZERUBE
State Sets Stage for Major Investment Drive
THE Delta State Government has announced plans for the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026, describing the event as a strategic initiative aimed at attracting local and international investors to the state.
Scheduled to hold from 3 to 5 August in Asaba, the summit is expected to bring together policymakers, business executives, development partners and investors from within and outside Nigeria to explore investment opportunities across multiple sectors of the state’s economy.
Government officials said the initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to stimulate economic growth, create employment opportunities and strengthen Delta State’s position as one of Nigeria’s leading investment destinations.
Focus on Strategic Economic Sectors
Speaking during a press briefing in Asaba, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said participants would examine opportunities in agriculture, the blue economy, oil and gas, hospitality, information and communication technology, real estate and the creative industry.
According to him, these sectors possess significant growth potential capable of attracting long-term private investments that will support industrial expansion and increase the state’s internally generated economic activities.
He explained that the government intends to showcase Delta’s natural resources, infrastructure and business-friendly environment to prospective investors seeking sustainable investment destinations.
Infrastructure and Policy Reforms Take Centre Stage
Aniagwu said the summit builds on investments already made by the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in critical sectors including infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and human capital development.
He noted that these interventions have contributed to creating an enabling environment for businesses while improving investor confidence in the state’s economic prospects.
The commissioner added that investment promotion activities undertaken by the state, including recent engagements in Brazil, have already generated positive international interest.
He disclosed that investors from Brazil, China and several other countries have confirmed participation at the summit.
Private Sector Confidence Grows
The commissioner revealed that the event has secured the backing of five Diamond Sponsors in addition to several Gold and Silver Sponsors.
According to him, the level of corporate support reflects growing confidence in the state’s investment climate and the administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
He stressed that the summit is not intended as a fundraising programme but as a platform for connecting serious investors with viable investment opportunities in Delta State.
“Our objective is to attract investors who will establish sustainable businesses, create jobs and contribute meaningfully to economic development,” he said.
International Speakers Expected
The summit will feature prominent policymakers, economists and business leaders from Nigeria and abroad.
World Trade Organisation Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, is expected to deliver the keynote address, while Vice President Kashim Shettima is billed to attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Other expected speakers include Prof. Patrick Lumumba, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele and Engr. Austin Avuru.
Government officials expressed optimism that the summit will strengthen strategic partnerships, attract new investments and accelerate Delta State’s drive towards economic diversification in line with the administration’s MORE Agenda.
