In a significant move to transform its economic landscape, the Delta State Government has unveiled plans to secure a substantial loan of one billion naira from the Bank of Industry (BOI). This initiative is designed to fast-track industrial development and promote technology-driven manufacturing across the state.
A Strategic Partnership for Growth
The announcement was made public by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori during the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Edo/Delta Branch, which took place in Asaba. Represented by the Deputy Director of Industries, Mr. Ocheli Jude, the Governor detailed that the loan scheme is a core part of a strategic collaboration with the BOI. The primary goal is to offer crucial financial support to manufacturers and medium-scale industries operating within Delta State.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that global trends are rapidly shifting towards digitalisation, green energy, and artificial intelligence, and these forces are fundamentally reshaping the future of manufacturing worldwide. He stressed that Delta State must take proactive steps to avoid being left behind in this new industrial revolution.
Addressing Industry Challenges and Embracing Innovation
The state government is working hand-in-hand with MAN to pinpoint critical needs within the local industrial sector. This collaboration aims to strengthen local production capacity and support businesses that are grappling with high operational costs, supply chain disruptions, and persistent infrastructure gaps.
Echoing the urgency of digital transformation, the President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Mr. Otunba Francis Meshioye, stated that the AGM's theme, 'Enhancing the Nigerian Manufacturing Landscape through Digital Innovation,' was both apt and timely. He maintained that the global economy is evolving at a rapid pace, with the manufacturing sector leading this change, and the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents opportunities that must be seized.
Further reinforcing this view, the Chairman of MAN, Edo/Delta Branch, Mr. Ehizogie Osadolor, highlighted the tangible benefits of digital tools. He noted that the deployment of technology and digital innovation is crucial for transforming Nigeria's manufacturing output and competitiveness. Digital technology streamlines production, enhances operational efficiency, enables faster output, and improves decision-making, he explained. Despite Nigeria's challenging economic climate, manufacturers who leverage automation, data analytics, and digital supply chains are seeing measurable gains in productivity and cost efficiency.
Political Endorsement for 2027 Elections
In a related political development, members of the 1st to the 8th Delta State House of Assembly, comprising both serving and former lawmakers, convened for an extraordinary session in Asaba. Presided over by the Speaker of the 8th Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the session resulted in the overwhelming adoption of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their sole candidates for the 2027 presidential and governorship elections, respectively.
The motion for this adoption was moved by Rt. Hon. Halims Agoda, a member of the 1st Assembly and former federal lawmaker, and was seconded by Hon. Kris Njokwuemeni of the 2nd Assembly. The endorsement was accompanied by a vote of implicit confidence in both leaders.
