Delta Acting Governor Seeks Stronger Ties with Kenya in Tourism, Agriculture, and Oil
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Acting Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, held a pivotal meeting on Saturday with Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Isaac Parashina, where they explored potential partnerships in tourism, agriculture, and the oil and gas sectors.
During the breakfast meeting at the Acting Governor’s Lodge in Asaba, Onyeme highlighted the wealth of opportunities Delta State offers, calling for Kenyan businesses to invest in key sectors.
“There are tourism sites this country is blessed with, and the vegetation here is rich. We could develop many areas for tourism purposes, and I believe our two nations can explore these opportunities together,” Onyeme stated.
He also emphasized Delta’s vast oil and gas resources, noting that the state boasts the largest gas deposits in Nigeria and perhaps the whole of Africa. He extended an invitation to Kenyan companies to invest in the oil-rich Ndokwa area, where much of the gas is located.
Beyond oil, Onyeme pointed to Delta’s robust agricultural sector. “Every local government area in Delta engages in farming. Rubber, cocoa, palm trees, and staple foods like cassava, banana, and plantain grow abundantly here,” he said, encouraging Kenyan firms to collaborate with Delta in agricultural ventures.
The acting governor also highlighted the state’s potential in mining, stating, “We have untapped solid minerals, and Kenya’s mining sector is advanced. We would welcome companies from Kenya to explore these opportunities in Delta.”
Additionally, Onyeme touched on Delta’s status as a cultural hub, particularly its prominence in the Nigerian entertainment industry. “Delta is the headquarters of Nollywood, and we are proud of our contributions to film and music. This is another area where we can collaborate,” he added.
Ambassador Parashina, who was accompanied by leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), expressed his excitement about the partnership potential. He praised Delta for its economic strength, hospitality, and cultural similarities with Kenya.
“This is my first courtesy visit to a state government in Nigeria, and I am honored. Delta is known for its booming economy and warm people. We are the same people divided by geography; Africa is one,” Parashina remarked.
He affirmed Kenya’s readiness to collaborate with Delta in oil, arts, culture, and the creative industry, adding that many Nigerians, especially from Delta, have made significant contributions to Africa’s cultural landscape through Nollywood.
The President of CAN, Dr. Daniel Okoh, said the ambassador’s visit coincided with the International Festival for Choral and Traditional Music held in Asaba, further strengthening ties between the two countries.
