Asaba: Delta Government has announced plans to leverage its geographical assets and aquatic resources to develop a sustainable blue economy. The state's Commissioner for Works (Rural and Public Information), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, shared this vision while presenting the state's transformative blueprint during a ministerial joint briefing in Asaba.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the briefing convened key ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) along with members of the Senior Executive Course 47 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), led by retired DIG Adeleye Oyebade. The theme was 'Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges and Opportunities,' highlighting Delta's potential as a leader in utilizing inland and coastal water resources for economic growth and social inclusion.
Aniagwu, alongside other commissioners, emphasized Delta's strategic advantage, which includes over 500 kilometers of navigable waterways and an Atlantic coastline. He stated that the administration under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to fostering economic development through targeted investments that will integrate rural and riverine communities into the broader economy.
The commissioner outlined the state's multidimensional approach to the blue economy, which includes infrastructure development such as road and bridge construction in underserved areas, and improvements in water transport infrastructure to enhance mobility across the state's waterways. He also stressed the importance of empowering communities through capacity-building in aquaculture, tourism, and logistics.
Delta's vision is aligned with the M.O.R.E Agenda of Governor Oborevwori, focusing on meaningful development and sustainable growth. Aniagwu noted the anticipated economic, social, and environmental benefits of the integrated rural infrastructure strategy and called for national coordination to position Delta as a 'Blue Corridor' by 2026.
The state's initiative has been praised by Oyebade, Leader of Course 47 Team, who encouraged attracting more investments by capitalizing on Delta's Atlantic coastline. The Delta Government remains open to collaboration with federal entities, development partners, and private investors to transform its waterways into catalysts for sustainable development.