Delta Gets Special Economic Zone Licence

Delta State governor Ifeanyi Okowa said the state would partner with investors in its vast oil and gas deposits as the country grapples with economic crisis.

Okowa said his administration had provided the enabling environment, including peace and security, for businesses to thrive, and assured the sustenance of development in the state.

The governor spoke when he received Delta Special Economic Zone licence from the federal government through the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), in Abuja yesterday.

Okowa said the availability of four seaports and two airports, in addition to necessary infrastructure, including good roads network, was a great impetus for businesses to flourish in the state.

He expressed gratitude to the federal government for the special licence, and also assured that the state government was prepared to synergise with NEPZA, corporate organisations and groups to achieve the essence of the licence.

He commended the management of NEPZA for the support and encouragement toward the realisation of the state’s desire to have its resources properly harnessed.

In his remarks, minister of investment, commerce and industry, Chief Niyi Adebayo, pledged the federal government’s support for the development of the zone in Delta.

Adebayo, who was represented by a deputy director in the ministry, Mr S.A. Jaja, said that the operation of the economic zone would have multiplier-effect on Delta’s and national economy.

Earlier, the chairman, Steering Committee for Establishment of Delta Special Economic Zone, Mr Festus Agas, had traced the track record which led to the presentation of the operating licence to the state and commended Governor Okowa for the effort.

Agas, who is chief of staff to Okowa, lauded the federal government for discerning the potential in Delta and approving the licence.

He also commended NEPZA for seeing the project through, and sued for the sustenance of the synergy.