Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor | Journalist at Weng Global
ASABA, Nigeria โ Delta State has taken a major step toward repositioning itself as one of Nigeria’s leading investment destinations with the commencement of the Delta State Economic Summit in Asaba, attracting an impressive lineup of national and international leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and renowned Pan-African scholar, Professor PLO Lumumba.
The summit, which has drawn policymakers, investors, captains of industry, development partners and entrepreneurs from across Nigeria and beyond, is expected to chart a new economic direction for Delta State through strategic partnerships, private sector investments and sustainable development initiatives.
Organised by the Delta State Government, the event reflects Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to accelerating economic diversification, improving infrastructure, promoting industrialisation and creating jobs through stronger collaboration between government and the private sector.
High-profile participation signals confidence
The presence of Vice President Kashim Shettima underscores the Federal Government’s support for sub-national economic reforms aimed at boosting productivity and attracting domestic and foreign investments.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, one of Africa’s most influential economists and the first African and first woman to lead the WTO, is expected to share insights on global trade opportunities, competitiveness and how states can position themselves within evolving international markets.
Professor Patrick Lumumba, widely respected across Africa for his advocacy on governance, leadership and economic transformation, is also scheduled to deliver a keynote address focusing on Africa’s development trajectory and the role of visionary leadership in unlocking economic prosperity.
Their participation has elevated the profile of the summit, attracting widespread attention from investors and development institutions.
Delta targets economic transformation
The summit comes as Delta State intensifies efforts to diversify its economy beyond oil revenues by investing in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, technology, creative industries and renewable energy.
Government officials say the summit is designed to identify practical solutions capable of stimulating long-term economic growth while improving the ease of doing business in the state.
Authorities are also seeking to showcase Delta’s abundant natural resources, strategic location, skilled workforce and infrastructure projects to both local and international investors.
According to organisers, the gathering will provide a platform for dialogue between policymakers and the private sector, enabling participants to explore viable investment opportunities and develop actionable partnerships.
Focus on investment and partnerships
Central to discussions is the need to create an enabling environment that encourages businesses to thrive through improved infrastructure, transparent governance, policy consistency and enhanced security.
Industry leaders attending the summit are expected to examine investment opportunities across several sectors, including:
- Agriculture and agro-processing
- Manufacturing
- Oil and gas services
- Digital economy
- Tourism and hospitality
- Infrastructure development
- Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
Stakeholders believe attracting private capital will accelerate economic expansion while creating employment opportunities, particularly for young people.
Shettima reiterates support for states
Vice President Shettima has consistently advocated stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential.
His participation reflects ongoing efforts by the Tinubu administration to encourage investment-led growth, improve productivity and deepen economic reforms across the federation.
Economic experts note that empowering states to maximise their comparative advantages remains essential for achieving inclusive national development.
Okonjo-Iweala highlights global opportunities
As Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has repeatedly urged African countries to strengthen industrial capacity, improve competitiveness and leverage opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Observers expect her presentation to focus on integrating local industries into regional and global value chains while promoting exports and innovation.
Her presence is also viewed as a strong signal of confidence in Delta State’s ambition to become a competitive investment destination.
Lumumba calls for visionary leadership
Professor Lumumba has built an international reputation for challenging African leaders to embrace accountability, integrity and transformational governance.
His expected address is anticipated to inspire policymakers, business leaders and young entrepreneurs to pursue sustainable development driven by innovation, education and responsible leadership.
Participants believe such perspectives are vital as Nigeria seeks new pathways for economic resilience amid global economic uncertainties.
Stakeholders optimistic
Business executives attending the summit expressed optimism that the event would produce practical outcomes rather than remaining merely a forum for discussions.
Many investors are expected to engage directly with government officials to explore partnerships capable of driving industrial development and improving the state’s competitiveness.
Development agencies are also participating in conversations on financing infrastructure, supporting innovation and expanding access to opportunities for small businesses.
A strategic moment for Delta
Analysts describe the summit as a timely initiative given increasing competition among Nigerian states to attract investment and stimulate economic growth.
By bringing together global economic leaders, policymakers and private sector players, Delta State aims to position itself as a preferred destination for investment while strengthening its role in Nigeria’s broader economic transformation.
The outcomes of the summit are expected to influence future policy direction, deepen public-private collaboration and accelerate projects capable of improving livelihoods across the state.
If successfully implemented, the partnerships and commitments emerging from the summit could contribute significantly to Delta’s long-term vision of inclusive growth, economic diversification and sustainable development.
Sources: Delta State Government, Office of the Vice President of Nigeria, World Trade Organization (WTO), Summit organisers.
