New Book Reveals Niger Delta’s Hidden Treasures and Investment Opportunities.

Prince Adewole Adebayo, former Social Democratic Party presidential candidate, has described the Niger Delta region as Nigeria’s “hidden treasure,” lamenting decades of underdevelopment and ineffective leadership that have left its vast resources largely untapped. The remarks were made during the launch of The Hidden Treasures: An Exposition on the Rich Resources and Opportunities of the Niger Delta, authored by Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, in Abuja.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Adebayo emphasized that the Niger Delta is vital to the nation’s existence, noting that the region is endowed with abundant natural and human resources that require deliberate strategies to harness. He highlighted that every part of the Niger Delta is rich in human, material, liquid, and solid resources, stressing that residents of the region have unparalleled opportunities to prosper. According to him, the region’s wealth exceeds the total productivity of the United States since 1776, pointing to its immense untapped potential.

The former presidential hopeful identified three essential pathways to unlock the Niger Delta’s potential: individual initiative, community engagement, and government intervention. He cautioned against leaders prioritizing superficial wealth, rent-seeking, or transferring national assets to foreign interests.

Speaking at the event, retired General Ike Nwachukwu, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, called for national restructuring and urged all regions to invest in their inherent economic capacities. On security, he emphasized the need for Nigerians to support the armed forces, noting their dedication to safeguarding the country.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by his Chief of Staff Dr. Mike Ogiadome, underscored the necessity of promoting development in the Niger Delta, describing it as Nigeria’s economic hub. He recommended the book to industrialists and international investors as a guide to the region’s opportunities.

Human rights activist Professor Mike Ozekhome, represented by Professor Ezekiel Abalagba, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, praised the book as an “economic goldmine,” offering practical guidance for revitalizing key sectors and implementing reforms. He advocated economic diversification beyond crude oil, encouraging investment in agriculture, fisheries, manufacturing, petrochemicals, and technology.

The book’s author, Chris Iyovwaye, highlighted that the Niger Delta’s story has often been misrepresented. He stated that his work explores the region’s vast potential, the challenges of underdevelopment, and strategies for leveraging its human and material resources to drive national prosperity. Iyovwaye said the book is designed to guide policymakers, investors, and communities toward unlocking the region’s hidden wealth while promoting sustainable development.