Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on global and domestic investors to capitalise on Nigeria’s improving macroeconomic landscape, declaring that early entry into the country’s market will yield maximum returns before opportunities become costly.
While addressing delegates at the opening of the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba on Monday, Shettima credited the fiscal policy direction of President Bola Tinubu’s administration for renewing global confidence and creating a stable environment for commercial growth.
The Vice President pointed to recent credit rating upgrades from Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings, and Moody’s. He noted that increased federal allocations have empowered state governments to drive ambitious development, urging sub-national authorities to actively compete for enterprise and job creation.
He described Delta State as a primary investment destination and stated that its appeal extends far beyond conventional oil reserves to encompass gas processing, maritime trade along its 163-kilometre coastline, agriculture, and solid minerals.
To back its economic drive, the Delta State Government announced a $100 million Viability Gap Funding scheme designed to de-risk private capital and convert investment commitments into operational bankable projects.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori revealed that Delta State, which is currently valued at approximately ₦17 trillion, has set aside 12,000 hectares for commercial agriculture and established an Ease of Doing Business Council. The state is offering tax waivers on levies and tenement rates for up to five years, alongside investment opportunities in gas-fired power, solar mini-grids, and blue economy logistics.
The World Trade Organisation Director-General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala urged the state to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and global supply chain shifts. She advised prioritising agro-processing, marine logistics, digital infrastructure, and artificial intelligence within the Delta Special Economic Zone.
Shettima commended Governor Oborevwori’s strategic outreach, which included investment missions to China and Brazil in 2025, assuring delegates that the administration will continue eliminating regulatory hurdles for incoming business ventures.
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