Oborevwori Backs Industrial Revival, Says Automotive Sector Key to Nigeria’s Economic Transformation

By Francis Sadhere, Delta

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has said that revitalizing Nigeria’s automotive industry through effective collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government is essential to the country’s industrial and economic rebirth.

The governor made the remark on Monday while declaring open a two-day retreat of the House of Representatives Committee on Industry and the National Automobile Design and Development Council (NADDC), held in Asaba, Delta State. He was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Johnson Erijo.

Speaking on the theme, “Building a Global Competitive Automotive Sector in Nigeria through Effective Executive–Legislative Partnership,” Oborevwori stressed that the automotive industry holds the potential to drive innovation, job creation, and economic diversification if properly supported with consistent policies and enabling infrastructure.

“The automotive sector is more than just vehicle assembly — it is an engine of industrialization, technological advancement, and youth empowerment,” the governor stated.

“For Nigeria to become competitive globally, we must synchronize legislative support with executive commitment to stable policies, local manufacturing incentives, and ease of doing business,” he added.

The governor noted that the Delta State Government, through his MORE Agenda, is already advancing initiatives that support industrialization, including massive infrastructure renewal, public–private partnerships, and decentralized power generation to boost productivity.

Highlighting Delta’s advantages, Oborevwori said the state’s coastal location, multiple seaports, and strategic position linking the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions make it an ideal hub for manufacturing and export-oriented industries.

He emphasized that subnational governments must complement federal efforts by providing investor-friendly policies, simplified approval processes, and maintaining peace and social stability.

“Delta State is ready and open for business. We are positioning ourselves as an industrial hub that will not only serve the local market but also compete globally,” he said.

Chairman of the House Committee on Industry, Hon. Enitan Badru, in his opening remarks, said the retreat was designed to strengthen the framework for Nigeria’s automotive growth through robust legislative-executive cooperation.

Badru commended the Delta State Government for hosting the event, noting that Asaba provided a conducive environment for serious policy dialogue and collaboration.

Governor Oborevwori, while declaring the retreat open, urged participants to explore the city’s tourist attractions and enjoy the hospitality of Delta people, expressing optimism that the outcomes of the meeting would pave the way for a stronger, self-reliant, and globally competitive automotive industry in Nigeria.

“Together, we can build a future where our automotive industry becomes a source of national pride, technological advancement, and sustainable prosperity,” he affirmed.