Asaba, August 13, 2025 — The Delta State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Samuel Oligida, has outlined the major steps his ministry has taken to support Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on growth, development, and attracting investment to the state.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba on Wednesday, Oligida said the ministry’s main job is to bring investors—both local and foreign—into Delta State. However, he stressed that investment requires proper direction and policies, not just allowing “any Tom, Dick, and Harry” to claim they are investors.
Review of Delta’s Industrial Policy
Oligida revealed that Delta State now has a revised industrial policy, which he called the “business bible of the state.” The first industrial policy was introduced in 2013 and had never been updated until now. The new version is tailored to fit the MORE Agenda and is designed to guide investors and businesses.
According to him, the policy includes “ease of doing business” measures and incentives for investors to give them confidence. It is available on the state’s official website for anyone interested in starting or expanding a business in Delta.
Reviving the Issele-Uku Skill Acquisition Centre
The commissioner also addressed abandoned projects, particularly the Skill Acquisition Centre in Issele-Uku, which was built around 2013–2014 but had been left unused. Oligida said he was moved to act after seeing the facility’s state, noting that the government had spent billions on it.
He recommended a public-private partnership to bring the centre back to life. This plan has been approved, and private investors have taken over the site. Groundbreaking for its revival will happen soon.
Boosting Trade Through Modern Markets
On market development, Oligida announced that the state is building and upgrading markets across Delta. One of the largest, the Udu Harbor Market, is almost complete and will soon be commissioned. It will feature 604 lock-up shops, 120 open stalls, an abattoir, and other facilities—making a total of 724 shops.
He also addressed concerns about the Ozoro Modern Market, saying it has been completed and is awaiting commissioning despite rumors of abandonment.
Attracting Investors Through Peace and Infrastructure
Oligida credited the state’s peace and security, as well as infrastructure projects like road construction, for attracting more investors. He claimed Delta is “the most peaceful and secure state in the federation,” giving investors the confidence to set up businesses.
Support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
The commissioner announced plans for a ₦1 billion managed fund for SMEs, in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI). The money, which belongs to the state, will be handled by BOI and given to business owners at a single-digit interest rate of 9% per year.
About 80–90% of the fund will go to existing businesses for expansion. Oligida said discussions with BOI are nearly complete, and the fund will soon be available for access.
Plans for Ogwashi-Uku and Kwale Industrial Parks
On the long-awaited Ogwashi-Uku and Kwale Agro-Industrial Parks, Oligida said all the necessary equipment is already in place. The state is now looking for private investors to take over operations, as “government has no business in doing business.”
He assured that once investors are found, the parks will be operational and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
