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Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerian states to embrace healthy competition by attracting investments that create jobs, boost economic growth and improve the lives of their people.
Shettima made the call while speaking at the 2026 Delta Economic and Investment Summit, themed “Harnessing Strengths to Unlock Potential.“
He said the growing number of investment summits across the country reflects a positive shift towards economic development rather than political rivalry.
“The cycle of competition among our states is now evident in the quality and ambition of the investment summits convened across the Federation,” he said.
According to the Vice President, every state has unique strengths that should shape its economic future.
“Every state possesses immense promise, but each must define a trajectory unique to its history, geography, people and comparative advantage. This is the race we must welcome, a race that proclaims growth rather than conflict. A race in which the prize is employment, prosperity and human dignity.”
Shettima said the Nigerian Government has remained focused on driving economic growth through investment forums, strategy sessions and business engagements since assuming office.
“We promised to place Nigeria on the path of growth, and each gathering offers another platform for turning that promise into enterprise,” he said.
Highlighting Delta State’s strengths, the Vice President described its people as educated and enterprising, saying the state already has what it takes to become a leading investment destination.
“A state so endowed already qualifies as an investment destination of the first order, and what remains is for the world to be told,” he added.
Shettima stressed that natural resources alone cannot transform an economy unless they are properly developed and invested in.
“Potential has no economic value unless it is organised, financed and put to work. Natural wealth buried beneath the soil cannot employ a young person. A coastline without productive infrastructure cannot move trade. Talent without opportunity becomes frustration,” he said.
He commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for organising the summit, describing it as a bold step towards attracting long-term investments and expanding the state’s economy.
“The design of this summit reflects the seriousness of that purpose. Delta seeks commitments that survive the applause and projects that outlive the conference,” Shettima added.
The Vice President also welcomed investors, entrepreneurs, financiers, development partners and members of the diplomatic community, urging them to take advantage of the investment opportunities available in Delta State.
Vice President Kashim Shettima says Nigerian states should compete by attracting investment, creating jobs and driving economic growth, rather than engaging in political rivalry. pic.twitter.com/3fExNhFpYJ
— News Central TV (@NewsCentralTV) August 3, 2026
