Mr. Igo Weli Says Niger Delta is No Longer Attractive for Investment
Weli Highlights Declining Investor Interest
Mr. Igo Weli, the General Manager of External Relations at the Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), stated on Thursday that the Niger Delta no longer attracts investors. He blamed restiveness, destruction of facilities, and an unpredictable business environment for the region’s decline. Weli made these remarks during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Port Harcourt at an SPDC-sponsored stakeholder meeting involving Abia and Rivers States.
Investors Prefer Other Regions, Especially Lagos
According to Weli, businesses are leaving the Niger Delta, and new investors now prefer locations like Lagos. He explained that while Nigeria faces many challenges, Lagos continues to progress because the state government makes deliberate choices that encourage investment. Meanwhile, the Niger Delta struggles because its environment discourages investor confidence.
He further pointed out that if Aliko Dangote could commit $18 billion to build a refinery in Lagos—an investment that logically belongs in the Niger Delta—then the region should be concerned. Weli emphasized that Dangote’s refinery alone could create more than 149,000 jobs, primarily benefiting Lagos and other southwestern states.
Agitations and Unrest Drive Investors Away
Weli stressed that the Niger Delta continues to lose opportunities due to persistent agitations and unrest. As a result, the region deprives itself of jobs, investments, and long-term business growth. He warned that choices made out of anger only worsen the region’s economic situation.
Unemployment Rises as Companies Reduce Operations
The SPDC executive also noted that unemployment in the Niger Delta has become a serious concern. Many companies have either left or reduced their operations, which leaves fewer job opportunities for residents. Despite the 13% derivation fund and the presence of institutions like the Niger Delta Development Commission, Niger Delta Ministry, and Amnesty Programme, Weli argued that the region still lacks meaningful development.
He added that existing companies now spend more time managing crises than growing their operations. This constant state of tension creates a perception that the region experiences “one day, one trouble.”
Calls for Reflection and Better Decision-Making
Weli urged Niger Delta leaders and stakeholders to reflect deeply on their decisions. He asked why the region still struggles with poor roads, inadequate schools, weak healthcare systems, and unstable electricity—even though it receives significant federal support.
"Give thanks to the Lord for He is good: His love endures forever."
According to him, the answers lie in the choices made by the region. He emphasized that progress will only return when communities and leaders choose stability, peace, and development over unrest and destruction.
