Delta State is positioning itself as a key player in Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sector, showcasing its untapped potential to investors at the Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026. The event, held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, focused on leveraging the state’s marine resources to drive economic growth under the theme, “Shifting Gears: Heading to a New Frontier in Maritime Economy.”
Key Highlights: The summit emphasized Delta’s 163-kilometre coastline, strategic ports including Koko and Warri, thriving fisheries, marine-based industries, and tourism opportunities.
State officials also discussed infrastructure development, investment incentives, and regulatory reforms to attract investors.
Speaking on the sidelines, Director-General of the Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA), Dr Anthony Elekeokwuri, highlighted the state’s rich marine endowments and stressed the government’s commitment to diversify the economy beyond oil and gas. “Delta State is huge in terms of marine economy potential. Investors are encouraged to come and see what we have on the ground,” he said.
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Prof. Frank Nwugo, Executive Director of Operations at the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, called for federal-state collaboration and policy reforms to unlock offshore resource potential, noting that assets like Koko Port remain underutilized due to regulatory constraints.
Chief Economic Adviser Dr Barry Gbe described the summit as a strategic platform for networking with investors and development partners, aimed at expanding marine infrastructure, logistics, and job creation. He emphasized Delta’s proximity to major markets and the role of strategic ports in driving industrial growth.
Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mr Samuel Oligida, highlighted the state’s renewable energy and tourism prospects, noting that coastal landscapes, cultural heritage sites, and ocean-based resources offer long-term investment opportunities within the blue economy.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration reiterated its commitment to providing a safe and investor-friendly environment, streamlined business registration through DIDA, and incentives designed to facilitate rapid development of the maritime sector.
Delta State officials expressed optimism that sustained engagement with investors and policymakers will establish the state as a leading hub for Nigeria’s emerging blue economy, creating jobs and boosting economic diversification.
