The NDDC Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr Samuel Ogbuku, has urged public and private organisations to invest in the Niger Delta Region as it is now conducive and safe.

Speaking during the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, Delta State, Ogbuku described the oil-rich region as richly endowed and a haven for investors.

The NDDC boss acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stating that the Renewed Hope Agenda has transformed the Niger Delta region into a peaceful and viable environment for investment.

He commended the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for organizing the summit, which he said would attract investors to the state and the Niger Delta Region. He also congratulated the Governor on his achievements in infrastructural development in the State.

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, stated that the country’s economic situation had improved, and President Tinubu deserved commendation rather than condemnation.

He stated: "From reserves of three billion dollars ($3b), when we were experiencing capital flight and capital scarcity, now we are experiencing the capital influx that our foreign reserves have gone up to fifty-two billion ($52b) and counting in a turbulent world." "I think the President deserves commendation."

Shettima further stated that the people of Delta State were educated and enterprising, a state so endowed and qualified as an investment destination of the first order. He said: "The purpose of the summit is the call to harness our strength and unlock our potentials."

"It is a timely awakening because potential has no economic value unless it is organized, financed and put to work."

In his speech, the Delta State Governor said the summit was not just another talk show, noting: "It showcases our vision and strong will to reposition the state's economy and enhance its competitiveness in business.”

Oborevwori affirmed that the state was safe for investment and was ready for investors to come in. He said though oil has helped the state, there was a need for diversification as the state would not depend on oil alone.

He declared: "This government has prioritised sound public financial management anchored on careful budgeting, physical discipline, judicious allocation of resources, transparency and accountability, matched with excellent service delivery."

He said, "Despite the huge investment in improving public infrastructure, we have not borrowed a kobo from any bank, and we do not intend to borrow." He said the state is safe for prospective investors to invest without hindrance.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said Delta State could become Nigeria's fourth industrial hub by harnessing its talent and unlocking its potential.

Okonjo-Iweala observed that trade was going digital and Delta State was ready for it. She advised Governor Oborevwori to take advantage of the growing digital infrastructure and AI

The DG of the World Trade Organisation said Nigeria was well endowed, but endowment alone does not add value; budgetary allocation alone does not lead to new roads and a good maintenance culture.

According to her, “We need a better maintenance culture, we need better Ports and digital infrastructure, and lower trade costs. Execution is what matters, and successful execution requires focus and privatisation."

•PHOTO: NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku (right), greeting the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima (left), during the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit.

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