By ENITAN ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr
Delta State is expanding its economic diversification drive beyond traditional sectors, with plans to tap into carbon credit markets and blue economy opportunities.
Commissioner for Economic Planning, Hon. Sonny Ekedayen, disclosed this during a media interaction in Asaba on Wednesday.
He revealed that the Delta State Azura Man Grove Project has received a “No Objection” from the National Council on Climate Change, clearing the way for the state to participate in carbon credit initiatives.
Describing it as a “game-changing revenue diversification strategy,” Ekedayen said Delta’s vast mangrove forests and coastal resources position the state to benefit from global blue carbon markets.
“Carbon credit and blue carbon initiatives represent a huge global market. Our mangrove reserves and coastal ecosystems are valuable environmental assets that can generate sustainable income for the state,” he said.
According to him, the initiative will not only create alternative revenue streams but also promote sustainable environmental practices and employment in coastal communities.
He stressed that economic transformation takes time, noting that the administration is laying strong foundations through infrastructure, investor confidence, agricultural mechanisation, and climate-smart investments.
Ekedayen assured that as these initiatives mature, residents would begin to see stronger employment numbers and broader economic impact across the state.