Finance Minister Urges Investors to Back Reform-Driven States

Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, on Tuesday urged investors to channel capital into Nigerian states creating favorable conditions for business, holding up Delta State as an example of subnational leadership converting federal reforms into economic opportunity.

Oyedele made the call while speaking at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, telling delegates that the Federal Government has laid the groundwork for sustainable growth through reforms that have restored macroeconomic stability and strengthened fiscal resilience.

The minister said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tackled long-standing structural distortions by unifying the foreign exchange market, removing the fuel subsidy, restoring monetary discipline, and enacting tax reforms designed to broaden the tax base while easing the burden on businesses, particularly small enterprises.

He said these measures have improved public finances, giving states and local governments higher revenues to meet obligations, invest in infrastructure and human capital, and pursue inclusive development.

Oyedele stressed that while the Federal Government's role is to secure macroeconomic stability, turning that stability into jobs, investment and higher living standards is the responsibility of subnational governments.

"Abuja can provide economic stability, but states must unlock their unique competitive advantages by creating an enabling environment for investment, supporting local enterprise and translating economic opportunities into tangible prosperity for their people," Oyedele said.

Referencing Delta State's hydrocarbon resources, blue economy potential, fertile agricultural land and mineral wealth, the minister said natural endowments alone would not attract investment without strong execution and investor confidence.

He called on investors and business leaders to partner with reform-oriented states, noting that capital flows toward jurisdictions with stable policies, responsive institutions and protected investments.

Oyedele commended the Delta State Government for convening the summit and reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to policies supporting private sector-led growth, economic competitiveness and shared prosperity nationwide.