Okonjo-Iweala, Aig-Imoukhuede decry N’Delta resource woes amid $160bn returns

Leaders and economic stakeholders in the Niger Delta have expressed dissatisfaction with the region's inability to translate its abundant natural resources into tangible development, even after receiving approximately $160 billion in federal allocations and other support over the past 27 years. At the ongoing Niger Delta Economic and Investment Summit 2026, chaired by Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, the chairman of Access Holdings Plc, he emphasized that natural resources alone do not generate prosperity; institutions, infrastructure, skills, and enterprise are essential to convert those resources into sustainable prosperity.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, highlighted that despite the region's rich natural and human resources, its development indicators remain concerning. Roughly 24 million people, or about 48% of the region's estimated 50 million population, are multidimensionally poor, and 60% of households lack access to clean water.

The summit aimed to discuss potential solutions and collaborate on a sustainable development framework for the Niger Delta, emphasizing the need for private sector investment in agriculture, critical minerals, and coastal economies.