FIC Report (Delta State) – The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has continued its nationwide Town Hall Stakeholders’ Engagement with a visit to Delta State, bringing together key government officials, private sector leaders, and business stakeholders to discuss strategies for improving the ease of doing business and fostering economic growth.
The engagement, held in Asaba, attracted senior members of the Delta State Government, representatives of business associations, and members of the organized private sector.
Representing the Governor of Delta State, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was the Honourable Commissioner for Finance and Dean of the College of Commissioners, Hon. Fidelis Tilije. Also in attendance were members of the State Executive Council, including the Honourable Commissioner for Economic Planning, Mr. Sonny Ekedayen; the Honourable Commissioner for Higher Education, Professor Nyerhovwo Tonukari; the Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Ejiro Etacherure; and the Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources Development, Hon. Dr. Isaac Tosan Wilki, alongside Local Government Chairmen and other government officials.
Representatives of key private sector organizations also participated actively in the engagement. These included the National Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Daily Needs Supermarkets, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Private Hospitals Association, Farmers Association of Nigeria, and the Market Women Association, among others.
Delivering the Governor’s address, Hon. Fidelis Tilije welcomed the PEBEC delegation and participants to Delta State, noting that the engagement forms part of the national stakeholder consultation initiative aimed at strengthening the business environment across the country.
According to him, Delta State remains committed to creating a conducive environment for businesses and investments to thrive.
“This visit by PEBEC to Delta State is the second of its kind, and the outcomes from the previous engagement have contributed significantly to improving the business climate in the state. Delta State remains open to investment, and the government is committed to supporting private sector growth and expansion.
“The impressive turnout of private sector stakeholders at today’s engagement reflects the strong partnership that exists between the public and private sectors in Delta State. This collaboration remains critical to driving sustainable economic growth and development,” he said.
In her remarks, the Director-General of PEBEC, Princess Zahrah Mustapha Audu, welcomed participants and emphasized the importance of collaboration between government and the private sector in achieving economic transformation.
She stated that meaningful economic development cannot be achieved in isolation and called for stronger partnerships among stakeholders.
“Economic transformation cannot be achieved by government alone. The public and private sectors must work together to unlock opportunities, improve competitiveness, and create sustainable growth.
“Strategic positioning remains essential in securing competitive advantage, while coordinated communication efforts must extend beyond social media platforms. Investment attraction can only be considered successful when such investments are secured and sustained,” she said.
As part of the engagement, participants were shown a presentation showcasing Delta State’s investment opportunities, business potential, and strategic advantages as a preferred investment destination in Nigeria.
An interactive session followed, allowing stakeholders to discuss business challenges, propose reforms, and identify solutions to improve the ease of doing business in Delta State.
The session was moderated by Barr. Charles Wajik, while the Honourable Commissioner for Economic Planning, alongside Directors and Deputy Directors from relevant MDAs, the Judiciary, facilitated discussions.
The PEBEC Town Hall Stakeholders’ Engagement continues to serve as a platform for strengthening dialogue between government and the private sector, promoting reforms, and driving Nigeria’s economic competitiveness at both national and sub-national levels.
Febau Tamaraukeboloye
SIPRO
FIC ASABA
