This week’s Weekend Pointer Guest, who is the Delta State Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Samuel Oligida, outlined the major steps the state government, through his Ministry, has taken to realise Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda, which focuses on growth, development, and attracting investments, among others, to the state.
In this interview with our man, Ifeanyi Omenogor, Commissioner Oligida said the ministry’s main job is to create the enabling atmosphere that could attract investors; both local and foreign into Delta State, stressing that investments require proper direction and policies, and not just allowing “any Tom, Dick, and Harry” to claim they are investors.
Please tell us more on review of Delta’s Industrial Policy
Thank you for this question. Delta State now has a revised industrial policy, which we 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 business owners.
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.
What is the position on reviving the Issele-Uku Skills Acquisition Centre and others?
The Delta State Government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is determined to address such concerns, particularly the Skills Acquisition Centre in Issele-Uku, which was built around 2013–2014 but had been left unused.
As a commissioner I was moved to act after seeing the facility’s state, as the government had spent billions of naira on it.
With the present situation I recommend a public-private partnership to bring the centre back to life. This plan has been approved, and private investors have taken over the site. Ground-breaking for its revival will soon take place.
How is the state boosting trade?
On market development, the state is building and upgrading markets across Delta. One of the largest, the Udu Harbour Market, is almost completed 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. Also, the Ozoro Modern Market has been completed and is waiting commissioning despite rumours of abandonment.
Tell us how the state is attracting Investors?
The state is doing this through its peace and security agenda, as well as the massive infrastructure projects as road construction among others. Investors now consider Delta as one of the peaceful states they can invest.
I proudly say that Delta is “the most peaceful and secure state in the federation,” giving investors the confidence to set up businesses under the able leadership of Rt. (Hon.) Sheriff Oborevwori who is poised to develop all sectors of the state.
Whta are the existing plans to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
The Delta State Government, in collaboration with the Bank of Industry (BOI), is planning N1 billion funds for SMEs. 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. Discussions with BOI are nearly complete, and the fund will soon be available for access.
Any more plans for Ogwashi-Uku and Kwale Industrial Parks
Yes, I can tell you that all the necessary equipment and other things needed are already in place. The state is now looking for private investors to take over operations, to achieve the best. I assure you that once investors are found, the parks would be operational, contribute to the state’s economic growth, and create employment for our youths..
Your advice and message to Deltans and Investors
I enjoin all Deltans to support our dear Governor, Rt. Hon Sheriff Oborevwori so that he can deliver more democratic dividends through his MORE Agenda to our people. Also, I call on investors to take advantage of the unity and peaceful atmosphere in Delta to invest in the many opportunities that abound in the state.
