By Sunday Apah
Delta State is utilizing its geographical advantages and aquatic resources to forge a comprehensive strategy aimed at establishing an inclusive and sustainable blue economy, with a strong emphasis on developing rural infrastructure and transportation systems.
At a recent joint ministerial briefing held at the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba, State Commissioner for Works (Rural and Public Information), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, presented the state’s ambitious transformation plan.
The event, which gathered vital stakeholders from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) along with members of the Senior Executive Course 47 from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), was led by retired DIG Adeleye Oyebade.
Themed “Blue Economy and Sustainable Development in Nigeria: Issues, Challenges, and Opportunities,” the session underlined Delta State’s leadership role in leveraging inland and coastal water resources to promote economic advancement, environmental stewardship, and social inclusivity.
Mr. Aniagwu, accompanied by the Commissioners for Transport, Environment, and Oil and Gas, highlighted the state’s extensive river networks, which include over 500 kilometers of navigable waterways and an Atlantic coastline, describing them as a valuable yet underutilized resource.
He affirmed that the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to reversing this underutilization through intentional, cross-sector investments aimed at integrating rural and riverine communities into the broader economic fabric.
Aniagwu pointed out that the blue economy encompasses more than just conventional industries such as fisheries and tourism; it provides a framework for enhancing climate resilience, alleviating poverty, and fostering inclusive economic engagement.
He stated that the state is viewing rural roads, jetties, cold-chain logistics, and digital connectivity as interconnected elements that can unlock the full range of aquatic-based opportunities.
Key ongoing initiatives include significant road construction and rehabilitation in historically underserved areas. Projects such as the Ogheye Floating Market and access routes in Warri North, the Ohoror/Bomadi/Gbaregolor road in Bomadi, and the extensive Trans-Warri-Ode Itsekiri road network, which includes 15 bridges, are part of this effort.
The construction of the Ayakoromo Bridge in Burutu LGA and the establishment of solid pavement roads in Warri South-West are also critical for connecting rural communities with commercial centers.
In addition to road infrastructure, the state is making substantial investments in water transport, including the development and upgrading of jetties.
These initiatives aim to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly transportation across Delta’s waterways, which many rural residents rely on for their daily commutes.
The Commissioner emphasized that the government’s strategy goes beyond physical infrastructure; it also aims to empower local communities, especially youths and women, through skill development in aquaculture, tourism, logistics, and marine services.
By bolstering cooperatives, improving access to information and communication technology (ICT), and incorporating renewable energy solutions like solar-powered cold storage, the state is enabling small-scale producers to expand their operations and access broader markets.
Aniagwu highlighted that Delta’s vision corresponds with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda, which focuses on Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security.
He projected that the integrated rural infrastructure strategy will lead to significant outcomes. Economically, it is expected to boost trade in fish and agricultural products, lower transport costs, attract private investment, and decrease rural unemployment.
Socially, it will encourage community ownership, enhance women’s roles in fisheries and commerce, and protect indigenous knowledge. Environmentally, the transition toward clean energy transportation, the restoration of mangroves, and sustainable resource management will help preserve fragile ecosystems while improving the resilience of local communities.
Looking ahead, Aniagwu called for improved national coordination and suggested that Delta State be designated as a pilot “Blue Corridor” starting in 2026 to implement integrated blue economy initiatives.
He also urged for federal assistance in implementing cleaner transport technologies, dredging inland waterways, and developing cold-chain logistics.
Furthermore, he proposed the establishment of a dedicated Blue Economy and Inland Water Transport Taskforce to align efforts between federal and state entities.
The Commissioner reiterated the Delta State government’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government, development partners, and private investors to transform its aquatic resources into sustainable development drivers.
As Aniagwu stated, “Our waterways should serve as engines of opportunity, prosperity, and environmental sustainability, rather than obstacles to progress.”
With focused planning, inclusive policies, and coordinated infrastructure investments, Delta aims to position itself not only as a center of blue economic activity but also as a model for coastal and riverine development throughout Nigeria.
DIG Adeleye Oyebade, the leader of the Course 47 delegation, praised the Delta State Government for its establishment of the Ogheye Floating Market and encouraged the state to attract further investments in the blue economy by capitalizing on its abundant Atlantic coastline resources.
