By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering exclusively with investors who prioritize the broader interests of the state during a meeting on Thursday with Mr. Arun Goswami, Chairman of Metwest Steel Limited, and Mr. Osaro Adusomnwan, the company’s Managing Director, at the Government House in Asaba.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of collaboration with investors who demonstrate a genuine commitment to contributing to the state, rather than those solely seeking personal gain.
He pointed out that his administration is not interested in partnerships with individuals who merely wish to exploit government resources without providing reciprocal benefits.
“Last month, I visited your factory and the Delta Free Trade Zone in Kwale to assess the current situation,” he stated.
“There are numerous individuals eager to invest, but they often look for what they can extract from the government without giving back. We are not prepared to engage with such investors.”
He outlined the need for a public-private partnership where both the government and the private sector can collaborate effectively.
“We need to evaluate what is on ground and determine if the state government can proceed. I assure you, we are open to continuing this dialogue,” he added.
Regarding the company’s requests related to the Free Trade Zone, the governor expressed his willingness to consider them. “If we commit our equity, we need a clear timeline for the factory’s successful launch at the Kwale Industrial Park.
“Some investors provide timelines they do not adhere to, so we require a realistic schedule. We are prepared to invest our equity once we have that information,” he explained, promising to address all other concerns raised.
The governor praised the company’s interest in Delta State, highlighting that such investments are crucial for creating jobs and reducing unemployment.
Earlier, Mr. Goswami outlined that the proposed project would be situated in Kwale within the Delta State Free Trade Zone, noting the substantial investment being made.
“He assured the governor that with the necessary support, the plant could be operational within eight months, generating 500 direct jobs in the initial phase and potentially 7,000 over six years, in addition to creating indirect employment opportunities.
He expressed hope for favorable consideration of the project by the state government, emphasizing that it would significantly enhance Delta’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and contribute to the state’s vision of becoming an energy-based industrial hub.
