Delta State Governor Pledges Support for Genuine Investors Committed to State’s Development

ASABA/Nigeria: The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, affirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering exclusively with investors who prioritise the state’s development and welfare. Governor Oborevwori made the statement on Thursday during a meeting at Government House, Asaba, with Metwest Steel Limited’s Chairman, Mr. Arun Goswami, and Managing Director, Mr. Osaro Adusomnwan.

Governor Oborevwori underscored his administration’s stance, noting that certain prospective investors sought benefits from the state without a commitment to give back. Such investors, he stressed, would not be welcomed under his leadership.

“I recently visited your factory and the Delta Free Trade Zone in Kwale. It was an assessment visit to ascertain the current state of affairs,” Oborevwori said. “Too often, investors come with a mindset solely to take from the government without reciprocating. Our administration will not partner with investors who only view the government as a source of gain.”

The Governor called for a balanced partnership approach, where both the state government and private investors have clearly defined contributions and mutual benefits.

“We want a private-public partnership arrangement where both the government and private sector outline what they bring to the table. That’s why I requested this meeting,” he explained. “We’ll examine the current progress and determine if the state government is prepared to continue its support. Rest assured, we are willing to move forward on this project.”

Addressing Metwest Steel’s requests regarding the Delta Free Trade Zone, Oborevwori assured that his administration would thoroughly review their proposals. He emphasised the importance of setting a concrete timeline to ensure project completion.

“If we release our equity stake, we need to have a realistic schedule for the successful launch of operations at the Kwale Industrial Park,” he continued. “Investors often propose timelines but fail to adhere to them. We need a firm timeframe from you because the state is prepared to fulfil its part.”

Governor Oborevwori also expressed his appreciation for Metwest Steel’s interest in Delta, adding that such initiatives were crucial in creating jobs and tackling unemployment within the state.

Mr. Goswami, Chairman of Metwest Steel, highlighted the company’s commitment to establishing a substantial project within the Delta Free Trade Zone, Kwale, pledging significant investment in the initiative. He assured the Governor that, with state support, the plant could be operational within eight months, providing 500 direct jobs in the initial phase and approximately 7,000 jobs over the next six years, along with numerous indirect employment opportunities.

Emphasising the project’s value to the state’s economy, Mr. Goswami noted, “We aim to be a key partner with Delta State, contributing to increased internally generated revenue (IGR) and supporting the state’s vision of becoming an energy-based industrial hub.”

Governor Oborevwori concluded the meeting by reiterating his administration’s readiness to support authentic investment partnerships that align with the broader goals of Delta State, setting a precedent for sustainable economic progress and job creation in the region.