Okonjo-Iweala Backs Delta’s Drive to Rival Lagos Economically

Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, says Delta State has the potential to become Nigeria’s next major industrial hub alongside Lagos, if it capitalises on emerging global investment opportunities.

Speaking on Monday at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, Okonjo-Iweala commended the state’s economic vision, describing the newly unveiled investment fund of more than $100 million as a strategic initiative capable of attracting private capital and accelerating industrial growth.

She said Delta possesses the key ingredients to evolve into a new engine of Nigeria’s economy, stressing that the emergence of another strong economic hub would benefit the country as a whole.

The WTO chief noted that shifting global trade patterns have created fresh opportunities for Nigeria, urging Delta to position itself as a preferred destination for manufacturing and investment before those opportunities are lost to competing economies.

Okonjo-Iweala also called on the state government to prioritise the development of Special Economic Zones, describing them as proven tools for driving industrialisation. She stressed that their success would depend on reliable infrastructure, including electricity, transport networks, digital connectivity, and strong collaboration with the Federal Government.

She further advised the state to concentrate on sectors where it holds a clear competitive advantage, building complete value chains that link production, processing, financing, standards, and access to domestic and international markets.

Highlighting the blue economy as a major growth area, she said Delta is well-positioned to become Nigeria’s fisheries and marine logistics hub, reducing the country’s dependence on imported fish and related products.

Okonjo-Iweala also praised Delta’s fiscal discipline, describing the state as one of Nigeria’s strongest performers in debt sustainability, while urging the government to maintain prudent financial management.

She expressed confidence that, with the right policies and sustained investment, Delta can transform from a resource-dependent economy into a diversified, resilient, and globally competitive economic powerhouse.