Delta targets post-oil economy with 3,200-hectare Special Economic Zone

From Enweliku Kent, Asaba

The Delta State Government has unveiled plans to transform its 3,200-hectare Special Economic Zone (DSEZ) into a major industrial and investment hub as part of efforts to diversify the state’s economy beyond oil.

Chairman of the Delta Special Economic Zone Management Company (DSEZ-MC), Brigadier-General Mike Ndubisi (retd.), who disclosed this during a press briefing in Asaba, said the zone is strategically positioned to drive the state’s “Delta Beyond Oil” agenda.

Ndubisi explained that the DSEZ comprises two major corridors – 2,200 hectares at Koko and 1,000 hectares at Kwale – both of which have been designated as Free Trade Zones.

According to him, the zones are already attracting investor interest in critical sectors including energy, manufacturing, petrochemicals, and agro-processing.

He noted that the initiative was conceived by the immediate past governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who expanded the original Kwale Industrial Park to include the Koko axis, in order to create a broader industrial base and unlock the state’s economic potential.

“The DSEZ was established to provide a platform for actualising the Delta Beyond Oil vision. With its vast landmass, gas reserves, port facilities and strategic location, the zone is capable of transforming Delta into a leading industrial and manufacturing hub in the country,” Ndubisi stated.

He added that with ongoing infrastructure development and necessary regulatory approvals, the economic zone will offer investors a one-stop investment destination with incentives, ease of doing business, and access to both local and international markets.

Ndubisi further assured that the project will create thousands of jobs, boost internally generated revenue, and accelerate industrialisation in the state, in line with the government’s M.O.R.E agenda.

“Initiated by the former Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, CON, and actively expanded by His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, the DSEZ is rapidly evolving into an economic engine driving a resilient, post-oil Delta State,” Ndubisi said.

He said the DSEZ would help the state overcome the challenges associated with dependence on a monolithic economy by developing an interconnected value-chain ecosystem.

Ndubisi expressed optimism that Deltans would soon begin to feel the impact of the zones through increased investments, industrial activities, employment and opportunities for the state’s youthful population.

He assured existing and prospective investors that the DSEZ-MC would continue to work with relevant stakeholders to provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and position Delta State as a competitive destination for domestic and international investment.