The Delta State Government has unveiled plans to obtain a ₦1 billion loan from the Bank of Industry (BOI) to accelerate industrial growth and promote technology-driven manufacturing across the state.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori made the disclosure at the 39th Annual General Meeting of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Edo/Delta Branch, held in Asaba. Represented by the Deputy Director (Industries), Mr. Ocheli Jude, the governor said the facility forms part of a strategic partnership with the BOI aimed at supporting manufacturers and medium-scale industries.
He noted that the global manufacturing landscape is rapidly transforming with the rise of digitalisation, green energy, and artificial intelligence, stressing the need for Delta State to remain competitive.
“Government is collaborating with the Bank of Industry on a one-billion-naira loan scheme to boost industrialization in the state,” he said.
“Digitalisation, green energy involvement, and artificial intelligence are gaining ground in the global manufacturing ecosystem, and we must take the initiative so we do not lag behind.”
Oborevwori added that the state is working closely with MAN to identify industry challenges, strengthen local production capacity and support manufacturers grappling with high operating costs, supply chain disruptions and infrastructure deficits.
Speaking at the event, the President of MAN, Otunba Francis Meshioye, described the theme of the 2025 AGM — “Enhancing the Nigerian Manufacturing Landscape through Digital Innovation” — as timely and aligned with global realities. He emphasized that the Fourth Industrial Revolution presents enormous opportunities that the manufacturing sector must seize.
The Chairman of MAN, Edo/Delta Branch, Mr. Ehizogie Osadolor, also highlighted the impact of digital tools on production efficiency, competitiveness and decision-making.
He noted that despite economic fluctuations, manufacturers leveraging automation, data analytics and digital supply chain systems are already recording significant gains in productivity and cost efficiency.
