National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Chibuzor Alli
Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Secretary to the Delta State Government, has highlighted the state’s economic prowess, declaring it as one of the top four largest economies in Nigeria.
He made this assertion during his keynote address at the 2025 Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony hosted by the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria, Delta State Chapter, on Thursday in Asaba.
In his address, Emu stated the theme, “The Role of Professionals in the Successful Implementation of the Delta State Government MORE Agenda,” as particularly relevant, shedding light on the impressive growth trajectory of the state economy.
He attributed this growth to the strategic governance of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, significant infrastructural investments, and a robust private sector.
“Whether you denominate in naira or dollar, Delta is the 4th largest economy in Nigeria and the highest oil producer in the country today,” Emu stated.
He further explained that “Oil revenue today accounts for only 48.7 per cent of our GDP; services and all others account for 51.25 per cent,” illustrating the diversification of the state’s economy. He noted that while oil and gas remain major revenue sources, sectors such as services play a crucial role in income generation.
Emu highlighted the agricultural sector’s remarkable growth rate of 13.3 percent year-on-year for over six consecutive years, along with substantial advancements in services and manufacturing. “We have diversified and created huge jobs for our people, totalling over 257,000 jobs, and that is very significant,” he added.
He pointed out that Delta’s economic ascent is a result of well-crafted policies aimed at enhancing agriculture, industrialisation, and human capital development. Through judicious resource management, investor-friendly initiatives, and a concentrated effort on key sectors like oil and gas, manufacturing, and technology, the state has established itself as a vital economic hub within Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Emu urged for increased investments in non-oil sectors such as agriculture, technology, commerce, electricity, transportation, mass housing, and tourism to foster sustainable economic growth in Delta State.
He reiterated, “The agriculture sector has grown year-on-year at 13.3 per cent for over six years now, while services and manufacturing have also grown significantly.”
