No 24-Hour Electricity, No Industrial Growth: GOMEP-NG President Urges Oborevwori to Prioritise Power Over Flyovers

By Charity Uwakwe

“For years, Delta State has been celebrated for its vast natural resources and strategic economic potential. Yet, according to the President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, one critical challenge continues to hold the state back from achieving true industrial transformation—unreliable electricity. In a passionate appeal to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Otiti says stable 24-hour power supply could unlock thousands of jobs, attract investors, revive manufacturing, and reshape Delta’s economic future.”

“Why is electricity important for Delta State’s industrial growth?
According to GOMEP-NG President Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, reliable 24-hour electricity is the foundation of industrialization in Delta State. Stable power supply would attract local and foreign investors, encourage manufacturing, create jobs, boost entrepreneurship, improve ease of doing business, and accelerate economic development across the state.”

Abuja, Nigeria — The National President of the Guild of Online Media Editors and Publishers of Nigeria (GOMEP-NG), Comrade Akpovoke Otiti, has called on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to make electricity infrastructure a top priority by pursuing a 24-hour uninterrupted power supply across the state as a catalyst for industrialization, job creation, and economic growth.

Otiti maintained that no meaningful industrial revolution can occur without stable electricity, describing power supply as the most important factor investors consider before establishing businesses and manufacturing plants.

“We cannot talk about industrialization without electricity. The first thing Delta State needs is 24-hour uninterrupted power supply. Once we achieve stable electricity, the state will naturally become attractive to investors and manufacturers,” he said.

The GOMEP-NG President urged the state government to place greater emphasis on addressing electricity challenges, arguing that reliable power infrastructure would have a more far-reaching impact on economic development than ongoing flyover bridge projects.

According to him, improved electricity supply would stimulate economic activities, strengthen entrepreneurship, expand private sector opportunities, and reduce dependence on government jobs and political appointments.
“If Delta State has 24-hour electricity, many people will no longer be seeking appointments. They will be engaged in productive ventures and private businesses,” Otiti stated.

Furthermore, he expressed concern over the increasing dependence on commercial tricycle transportation, popularly known as “Keke,” and Point-of-Sale (POS) businesses as major sources of livelihood in the state.

While acknowledging the role of these ventures in supporting families, Otiti argued that their growing dominance reflects the absence of large-scale industries capable of generating sustainable employment and driving economic expansion.

“Delta State is gradually becoming a hub for Keke transportation and the POS industry. While these ventures provide income for many families, they cannot replace the economic benefits that come with industrialization and large-scale investments,” he said.

He noted that Delta State possesses vast land resources, abundant human capital, and a strategic geographical location capable of supporting diverse industrial and manufacturing investments. However, he warned that investors may continue to overlook the state if the challenge of inadequate electricity remains unresolved.

Otiti further stressed that reliable power would improve productivity, lower operational costs for businesses, enhance the ease of doing business, and position Delta State as a preferred destination for both domestic and foreign investors.

The media executive therefore called on the Oborevwori administration to develop and implement a comprehensive power strategy capable of guaranteeing uninterrupted electricity supply across the state.

“Delta has the land, the human resources, and the strategic location required for industrial growth. What is missing is reliable electricity.

Once power becomes stable and available round the clock, industries will emerge, jobs will be created, and the state’s economy will experience rapid transformation,” Otiti said.

He emphasized that sustained investment in power infrastructure remains one of the fastest pathways to economic diversification, wealth creation, and long-term prosperity for Delta State and its residents.