Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has announced a $100 million (about ₦133.8 billion) viability gap fund to attract private investment, alongside the allocation of more than 12,000 hectares of farmland for agricultural development.
The governor made the announcement at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026 in Asaba, describing the initiative as part of his administration’s strategy to reduce investment risks and accelerate economic growth across the state.
Oborevwori said the viability gap funding would support viable projects by reducing the financial risks faced by investors. He stressed that the fund had already been set aside by the state government and was not being financed through borrowing.
“The government has set aside 100 million dollars, approximately ₦133.8 billion, as viability gap funding to de-risk new investments in the state. This one we are not borrowing. The money is there. This is a practical demonstration of our commitment to ensuring that agreements reached at this summit are implemented without delay,” he said.
The governor also disclosed that more than 12,000 hectares of farmland have been earmarked for prospective investors under the state’s agricultural development programme. He said the initiative is designed to boost commercial farming and expand opportunities across the agricultural value chain.
According to him, Delta offers strong investment prospects in the cultivation and processing of cassava, oil palm, rice, potatoes and other cash crops. He added that the state’s coastline also presents opportunities for developing a thriving marine economy.
“Investment opportunities abound in the value chain production of cassava, oil palm, rice, potato and other cash crops. In addition, the state has a coastline suitable for developing a vibrant marine economy,” Oborevwori stated.
The governor assured local and foreign investors that Delta remains a secure destination for business, noting that the state’s investments in security have strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities while improving public safety.
He added that Delta was recognised by the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources as Nigeria’s safest state for oil and gas investment in 2024, describing the recognition as evidence of the state’s growing appeal to investors.
Oborevwori expressed confidence that the combination of improved security, investment incentives and agricultural expansion would position Delta as one of Nigeria’s leading destinations for sustainable private-sector investment.
