By Anne Azuka

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called for increased investment in key sectors of the state’s economy, saying Delta can no longer depend solely on oil revenue to drive sustainable growth.

Speaking at the close of the second day of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba on Tuesday, the governor said the state is prioritising economic diversification through investments in agriculture, livestock, mining, the blue economy, digital innovation, energy and transport infrastructure.

Oborevwori said the summit was designed as a private sector-driven platform to connect investors with viable business opportunities, while the government focuses on providing an enabling environment through supportive policies, infrastructure, security and strategic partnerships. He disclosed that the state had secured land for major investment projects and conducted investment roadshows in countries including China and Brazil to promote Delta’s economic potential.

The governor expressed confidence that partnerships and commitments made during the summit would translate into projects that create jobs, promote industrialisation and strengthen Delta’s economy. During panel sessions, industry experts identified agriculture, livestock, mining, the blue economy and legal reforms as priority sectors for sustainable investment.

Former Poultry Association of Nigeria official Chief Eta Enahoro urged greater investment in poultry and fish farming to boost employment, while Brazilian agribusiness investor Roberto Fonseca announced plans to partner with the Delta State Government on a modern cattle and beef value chain.

Also speaking, Dr. Uche Igwe called for stronger action against illegal fishing, while Mosra Energy Managing Director Ramos Olukayode highlighted Delta’s coal deposits and disclosed plans for a proposed 600-megawatt power plant in Obomkpa.

By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

An offshore services expert, Mr. Sunday Ikot, has said existing Federal Government policies are creating significant challenges for indigenous marine and offshore service companies operating in Nigeria.

Ikot, Executive Director (Projects) of BOBELS International & Associates Company Limited, made the remarks while receiving members of the Energy and Maritime Reporters of Nigeria (EMR) during a courtesy visit in Uyo.

According to him, many local operators are struggling despite Nigeria’s local content framework, as regulatory and financial obligations continue to increase while foreign companies dominate offshore contracts.

He said indigenous firms are required to renew multiple operational licences annually at costs exceeding ₦20 million, in addition to taxes and other statutory payments, without what he described as adequate access to business opportunities.

Ikot also said the earlier policy that encouraged technical partnerships between indigenous and foreign companies has not delivered the expected level of participation for local operators in offshore operations.

He called on the Federal Government to introduce support measures, including financial and operational interventions, to help indigenous marine companies remain competitive and contribute to employment generation and economic development.

The BOBELS executive added that the creation of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy presents an opportunity to address longstanding challenges facing indigenous operators.

Earlier, EMR Chairman Harrison Ndifreke said the association’s visit was part of its engagement with stakeholders in the energy, maritime, oil and gas, and blue economy sectors. He said stronger institutional support is needed to help indigenous companies build capacity, create jobs and participate more effectively in emerging offshore opportunities.

By Staff Reporter

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially published Mustapha Ayoola Ishola as the BOOT (Because of Our Tomorrow) Party’s candidate for the Ogun West Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general election.The publication follows the completion of the party’s nomination process and formally confirms Ishola’s candidacy for the Senate seat.

In a statement, Ishola thanked the BOOT Party’s national, state and local leadership for what he described as a transparent nomination process. He also expressed appreciation to party members, supporters and stakeholders across the five local government areas of Ogun West for their support.

According to Ishola, his campaign will focus on effective legislative representation, economic development, agriculture, education, healthcare, youth employment and policies aimed at advancing the development of Ogun West.

He said he intends to run an issue-based campaign focused on engaging communities and prioritising the interests of residents. “I accept this responsibility with humility and a deep sense of duty. My campaign is about offering purposeful leadership, listening to our people, and working tirelessly to ensure that Ogun West receives the quality representation it deserves,” Ishola said.

He also called on residents of Ogun West, regardless of political affiliation, to support his campaign and pledged to maintain regular engagement with communities across the senatorial district.