ABUJA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has declared the state open for strategic investments and partnerships in the blue economy, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to harness maritime resources for sustainable economic growth.
The governor made the declaration at the Blue Economy Investment Summit 2026, themed “Shifting Gears: Heading to a New Frontier in Maritime Economy,” held at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, where he outlined Delta’s strategic vision to unlock opportunities in the sector.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori said the blue economy has emerged as a critical policy priority globally, as countries seek to balance economic expansion with environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
He commended the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, describing it as a bold and forward-looking step towards unlocking Nigeria’s vast maritime potential for job creation and economic development.
The governor disclosed that Delta State has already developed a comprehensive roadmap to drive its blue economy agenda, leveraging its strategic location in the Niger Delta with a coastline stretching approximately 163 kilometres.
He highlighted the state’s rich ecological assets, including extensive mangrove forests, wetlands and major rivers such as the Niger, Benin and Escravos, which empty into the Atlantic Ocean, positioning the state as a key player in maritime development.
According to him, 14 out of the state’s 25 local government areas are directly linked to the blue economy due to their proximity to waterways, presenting vast opportunities in aquaculture, marine transport, offshore energy, tourism and logistics.
Oborevwori revealed that the state government has established two critical structures—the Blue Economy Steering Committee and the Technical Working Committee—to coordinate policies and drive effective implementation of its agenda.
He explained that the initiative is designed to create a unified platform for investors, streamline regulatory processes and ensure sustainable management of marine resources.
“We are ready to welcome investors and partners. Delta State is safe for investment, and we are committed to providing the necessary institutional support and a conducive business environment,” the governor stated.
He further disclosed that the state is targeting investments in key areas such as marine tourism infrastructure, port development, renewable energy, fisheries, real estate and environmental services.
Oborevwori noted that existing ports, including those in Burutu and Warri, require infrastructure upgrades and increased private sector participation to operate at optimal capacity.
On human capital development, he said the state government would collaborate with the Nigerian Maritime University and other relevant institutions to build capacity and promote innovation within the sector.
The governor also underscored the importance of maritime security, assuring that the state would continue to partner with the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies to safeguard waterways and protect investments.
In his remarks, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the global blue economy as a multi-trillion-dollar sector critical to global trade, employment and innovation.
He noted that Nigeria is strategically positioned to benefit significantly, given that over 90 per cent of its international trade is conducted through maritime channels.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Maritime Innovation Hub, Ronke Kosoko, shared her journey into the maritime sector, tracing her passion to her undergraduate days at the University of Lagos.
She said her early efforts at connecting students with industry professionals, alongside her exposure to maritime-focused engagements, played a defining role in shaping her career trajectory.
