Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has urged Nigeria to move beyond budgetary allocations and embrace a stronger culture of maintenance, stressing that real development depends on proper execution—not just spending.
Speaking on Monday at the 2026 Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, themed “Harnessing Our Strengths, Unlocking Our Potentials,” Okonjo-Iweala said Nigeria must improve the way it maintains public infrastructure while investing in projects that can drive long-term economic growth.
According to the former Nigerian Finance Minister, simply allocating funds in government budgets will not automatically result in quality roads or sustainable development.
“Endowments alone do not add value. Budgetary allocations alone do not lead to new roads or good maintenance,” she said.
She noted that Nigeria’s weak maintenance culture continues to hinder infrastructure development and economic progress.
“We lack a maintenance culture in the country. We need maintenance. We need better ports and digital infrastructure, and lower trade costs. Execution is what matters, and successful execution requires focus. It requires prioritisation,” Okonjo-Iweala added.
‘Nigeria Is on the Right Path’
The WTO chief also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic direction, saying efforts by the Federal Government to stabilise the economy—particularly through exchange rate reforms and measures to curb inflation—could improve growth prospects for states across the country.
According to her, maintaining macroeconomic stability will help create a more attractive environment for investment and development.
Delta Urged to Invest Wisely
Okonjo-Iweala said Delta State has the potential to become one of Nigeria’s major economic growth hubs alongside Lagos, Kano and Port Harcourt.
She explained that stronger economic activity in Delta would reduce pressure on the country’s existing commercial centres while creating more opportunities for businesses and residents.
The economist, however, advised the state government to remain fiscally disciplined and ensure public funds are invested in projects that deliver long-term value.
“Public resources must be channelled into productive investments rather than wasteful spending,” she said.
She also commended Delta’s proposed ₦1.664 trillion 2026 budget, noting that its emphasis on capital projects could help accelerate the state’s economic development.
Support for Special Economic Zones
Okonjo-Iweala further endorsed Delta’s plan to establish Special Economic Zones (SEZs), describing them as one of the most effective ways for governments with limited resources to attract industries and create jobs.
She explained that SEZs allow governments to concentrate infrastructure, skilled labour and business-friendly regulations in strategic locations, making them attractive to investors.
Highlighting Delta’s natural gas resources, she said the state already possesses one of the key ingredients needed for industrial growth but stressed that reliable electricity, roads, rail networks, water supply, digital connectivity and strong regulatory support would be essential for success.
She added that achieving these goals would require close collaboration with the Federal Government.
