By MAGNUS EMUJI
The Delta State Investment Development Agency (DIDA) has inspected the ongoing SPL Utorogu LPG/CNG facility in Iwhrekan community, Ughelli South LGA, describing it as a game changer and one of the few investments of its kind in Nigeria.
The inspection was led by DIDA Chairman, Olorogun Lucky Oghene-Omoru, and Director-General, Hon. Dr. Anthony Emeka Elekeokwuri accompanied by some Directors.
Oghene-Omoru said that DIDA was set up by law to market, promote and support investment, adding that the visit was in carrying out the Agency’s core mandate, obtain first hand knowledge about the investment and ascertain the extent of its implementation in order to brief the State Government.
He observed that clearing and foundation works are complete and equipment are already on ground, with assembling and installation remaining.
He noted that the project includes road infrastructure which would greatly improve economic and social development of the Community, and that investment is in line with Delta State Economic and Investment Summit held 3rd-5th August which was hosted by the Oborevwori administration to attract investments to the state..
Oghene-Omoru urged Iwhrekan Community to remain peaceful, noting that no meaningful development can take place without peace. He urged them to support all APC Candidates comprising His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff F.O Oborevwori, the Governor of Delta State, the State House Assembly, House of Representatives, Senate and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR in the 2027 General Elections.
In his remarks, the President-General of Iwhrekan Community, Evang. Ufuoma Samson Omoberayen, described the facility as a milestone and the beginning of a greater community.
Omoberayen explained that Iwhrekan is a peace-loving community and that they welcome investors with open hands.
He said that facility will unlock economic opportunities in their community, while reaffirming the community’s commitment to support the project in line with the Memorandum of Understanding.
He also urged SPL Utorogu to sustain its corporate social responsibility.
The DIDA Director-General, Hon Dr. Anthony Emeka Elekeokwuri, said the visit was to assess SPL Utorogu’s engagement with the Agency and noted a key benefit is job creation for the community.
In their separate remarks, the Chairman of SPL Utorogu, Dr. Patrick Ndiomu, and Managing Director, Engr. Luis Bawa, said they invited DIDA to update government on progress of work, that the facility will serve as a business hub, and appreciated the community for its peaceful disposition.
They added that the project which is self sponsored by SPL Otorogu so far is progressing from foundation to installation, with equipment in containers to be installed and would be completed for commissioning by about September 2027.
Bawa stated that SPL Otorogu wanted to show Delta State Government the extent they have implemented the investment, noting that together with Delta State Government, they would make it work.
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