Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, has said the state government is creating the necessary environment to attract investors, create jobs and improve the living standards of Deltans.
Aniagwu spoke on Sunday on Arise News’ The Morning Show, saying the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration was investing in roads, electricity, security and legal frameworks to make Delta attractive to investors.
He said the state was extending a 33KVA electricity line from Abraka towards Kwale to provide power to farms and businesses and reduce their dependence on generators.
According to him, Delta is also exploring its abundant gas resources to generate electricity, particularly within the state’s Special Economic Zone.
“We are not just relying on hydro to provide power. We are also trying as much as possible to take advantage of the enormous gas resources in Delta,” he said.
Aniagwu said investors were being encouraged to establish power-generating facilities at the Kwale Free Trade Zone, where a gas-gathering hub is already operating.
He said electricity generated there could serve businesses within the zone and other parts of the state.
The commissioner disclosed that the state had experimented with about 8.5 megawatts of power generation in Asaba, which currently supplies several government establishments.
He said the government was working to expand the initiative to the private sector, taking advantage of the liberalisation of the electricity sector.
Aniagwu added that the state was also working to establish an energy commission to provide the regulatory framework necessary for the smooth operation of the sector.
He said the government deliberately prioritised infrastructure and security before aggressively pursuing investments.
“We needed to create the enabling environment, ensure that roads are built, ensure that security is put in place and ensure that investors are protected by law,” he said.
Aniagwu said the strategy was already attracting investors from China, Brazil and Malaysia, adding that the ultimate goal was to create jobs and expand economic opportunities.
On electricity challenges in Ndokwa, he blamed persistent delays on the vandalisation of power infrastructure.
He said the government had extended the 33KVA line from Abraka towards Kwale three times, but vandals repeatedly removed the cables.
According to him, transformers, feeder lines and other cables needed to distribute electricity to homes were also vandalised.
Aniagwu said Governor Oborevwori had personally intervened, warning community leaders to take responsibility for protecting government infrastructure in their areas.
He said another phase of the electricity project was being implemented by the Ministry of Energy, while similar efforts were underway to address power challenges in the Isoko axis.
On the 2027 elections, Aniagwu said the administration would campaign with its projects and achievements rather than rhetoric.
“We are not just going there to dance and walk away. We will first of all go and commission projects so that the people can see the projects the administration has made possible,” he said.
