Delta State is leveraging its unique geographical assets and aquatic wealth to chart a bold course toward an inclusive and sustainable blue economy, with a strategic focus on rural infrastructure and transport integration.
Commissioner for Works (Rural and Public Information), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, outlined the state’s transformational blueprint at a ministerial joint briefing with key Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and members of the Senior Executive Course 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), led by retired DIG Adeleye Oyebade.
Held at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba, the session with the theme: “Blue economy and sustainable development in Nigeria: Issues, challenges and opportunities,” the commissioner highlighted the state’s role as a national pacesetter in harnessing inland and coastal water resources to drive economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion.
Mr. Aniagwu, who was in the company of the Commissioner for Transport, Mr. Onoriode Agofure, Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ejiro Jamani, and the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Peter Uviejitobor and other top government functionaries, described Delta’s extensive river networks, over 500 kilometers of navigable waterways, and Atlantic coastline as a “strategic advantage” that remains under-utilized.
However, he said the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration is determined to reverse this trend through deliberate, multi-sectoral investments that will bring rural and riverine communities into the mainstream of economic development.
Aniagwu said the blue economy goes beyond traditional sectors like fisheries and tourism but is a framework for building climate resilience, reducing poverty, and fostering inclusive economic participation.
He emphasized that the state’s approach is to treat rural roads, jetties, cold-chain logistics, and digital access as interconnected pillars capable of unlocking the full spectrum of aquatic-based opportunities.
Read also:
- Delta warns developers against erecting structures without approved building plan
- Delta APC lauds Tantita Security for combating oil theft, youths empowerment
- Political commentator, Delta governor’s aide lock horns over ₦100,000 per month comment
Among the key efforts underway are major road construction and rehabilitation projects in traditionally marginalized areas.
These include the Ogheye Floating Market and access roads in Warri North, Ohoror/Bomadi/Gbaregolor Road in Bomadi, and the Trans-Warri-Ode Itsekiri Road network, which incorporates 15 bridges.
The ongoing construction of the Ayakoromo Bridge in Burutu Local Government Area and rigid pavement roads in Warri South-West are also cited as critical arteries meant to connect hinterland communities with market hubs.
“In addition to road networks, the state has significantly invested in water transport infrastructure, including the building and upgrading of jetties.
“These moves are designed to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable mobility across Delta’s waterways, which remain the primary means of transportation for many rural dwellers.”
The commissioner stressed that the government’s approach is not limited to physical infrastructure.
Also, it is focusing on empowering people particularly youth and women through capacity-building in aquaculture, tourism, logistics, and marine services.
“By strengthening cooperatives, enhancing ICT access, and integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar-powered cold storage, the state is helping small-scale producers to scale their operations and connect with broader markets.”
He noted that Delta’s vision aligns with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Gov. Oborevwori, which prioritizes meaningful development, opportunities for all, realistic reforms, and enhanced peace and security.
Aniagwu explained that the integrated rural infrastructure strategy is expected to yield far-reaching impacts.
“Economically, it will increase trade in fish and agricultural products, lower transportation costs, attract private investment, and reduce rural unemployment,” he added.
