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South South · Capital: Asaba

Delta State

Governor: Sheriff Oborevwori

Population

4,112,445

Land area

16,842 km²

Created

August 27, 1991

Governance

Rt. Hon. (Chief) Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori (APC, born 19 June 1963) has served as Governor of Delta State since 2023. He holds degrees in political science from Ambrose Alli University and Delta State University, and previously served as Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly.

History

Delta State was created on 27 August 1991 from the southern half of the former Bendel State. Its capital, Asaba, sits on the west bank of the Niger River, while the economic centre is the coastal city of Warri. Its official 2006 census population was 4,112,445.

Natural Resources

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Crude oil

Delta is one of the major oil- and gas-producing states in Nigeria.

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Silica, tar sand, clay and limestone

Additional solid mineral deposits identified alongside the state's oil reserves.

Tourism

River Niger frontage and Niger Delta creeks, with Asaba serving as an emerging hub for education and transport.

  • Asaba riverfront

Agriculture

A major exporter of petroleum, rubber, timber, palm oil, and palm kernels through its ports.

Cassava · Rubber · Oil palm · Cashew · Cocoa

Investment

One of Nigeria's major oil and gas producers, with industries spanning steel production, glass and bottle manufacturing, textiles, plywood, and boatbuilding. Priority investment areas include agribusiness, manufacturing, healthcare, tourism, and energy.

Oil & gas · Manufacturing · Agribusiness · Ports & logistics

Infrastructure

The 2026 budget of ₦1.664 trillion allocates 70% to capital projects, an aggressive push for infrastructure expansion.

Education

Delta State University, Abraka · Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun

Government contact

Delta State Government House, Asaba