Delta’s investment drive gained momentum on Wednesday as investors from Brazil, Malaysia and the United States expressed interest in agriculture, energy and industrial projects after inspecting key investment sites.
The investors, attending the State Economic and Investment Summit, visited the Kwale Special Economic Zone, Kwale Gas Gathering Hub, Phoenix Company, Skyward Resources Group and Uzezi Farms.
Leader of the Brazilian agribusiness delegation, Roberto Fonseca, described the Kwale Special Economic Zone as a strategic initiative capable of attracting global investors and advancing Nigeria’s industrial development.
Fonseca said the delegation monitored developments at the economic zone before visiting, adding that the project reflected Delta State Government’s commitment to creating a favourable investment environment.
He disclosed plans to explore joint investments in gas-fired power generation and cassava processing, noting that Kwale’s location provided strong advantages for industrial and commercial activities.
“We have been studying the Kwale Special Economic Zone with great interest because we believe it is a very wise decision by the Delta State Government.”
“We are planning investments in natural gas power generation and cassava processing, and I believe the Brazilian flag will soon stand alongside the Nigerian flag here in a fruitful partnership,” Fonseca said.
After inspecting Skyward Resources Group and Uzezi Farms, Fonseca praised their modern agricultural facilities, saying they demonstrated Nigeria’s capacity to strengthen food production and improve national food security.
He said Brazil was ready to invest in ranching, beef processing and technology transfer to improve agricultural productivity through strategic partnerships with Nigerian businesses.
“Food security remains one of Nigeria’s biggest challenges, and Brazil is ready to contribute by bringing technology, expertise and investment.
“We are committed to partnering Nigeria to build a stronger agricultural sector,” he stated.
Also, Malaysian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, said Malaysia was exploring investment opportunities in Delta’s agricultural sector, particularly oil palm development, alongside experienced agribusiness companies.
Omar said discussions had begun with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on collaboration to expand Delta’s oil palm industry, expressing confidence in Malaysia’s expertise and experience.
Founder of Agrinexus, Dr Shermal Perera, said the organisation was already collaborating with partners in Delta and facilitating fresh international investments into the state’s agricultural sector.
Perera said Agrinexus supports JB Farms and DELCOM’s proposed smallholder oil palm programme, adding that an American investor joined the visit to explore business opportunities.
In his part, the State Deputy Governor, p
Sir Monday Onyeme said combining investment discussions with field inspections demonstrated Delta’s readiness for investment and showcased thriving businesses seeking international partnerships.
“What we are looking for is partnership, technology and expertise. We want investors to see that Delta means business.”
“We have indigenous entrepreneurs ready to partner investors from across the world. We want you to have confidence that your investments will be safe in Delta State,” Onyeme said.
The Managing Director of Skyward Resources Group, Chief Eta Enahoro, said Brazilian technical support helped develop the company’s greenhouse facilities, poultry operations and feed mill.
Enahoro said the farm operates 42 greenhouse units and a poultry facility with capacity exceeding 30,000 birds, while inviting foreign investors to support its planned expansion.
