By Mowete Austin -Trainee,
Delta State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Hon. Sonny Ekedayen, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to infrastructure development, describing it as a deliberate economic strategy for long-term growth.
Speaking at a session organised by the State Ministry of Economic Planning, Ekedayen said the government actively monitors social media conversations to understand public concerns, particularly around employment and economic activity.
“I am an avid follower of the social media space,” he said, noting that public commentary helps identify areas where clearer communication is needed.
“Listening to public sentiment does not mean reacting defensively,” Ekedayen stated, adding that online discussions often reflect citizens’ strong interest in the state’s progress.
Addressing criticism that the administration appears overly focused on roads, the Commissioner said infrastructure remains fundamental to sustainable economic expansion.
“The need for infrastructure cannot be overstated,” he said, explaining that reliable roads and transport networks provide the foundation for growth in industry, agriculture, trade, and services.
He noted that Delta’s geographical spread requires development that is broadly distributed. “Unlike states with only one or two dominant cities — where growth can be concentrated in one location — Delta’s development must be evenly distributed,” he explained.
Ekedayen said improved connectivity reduces travel costs, enhances access to healthcare, education, and markets, and attracts investment to previously isolated areas.
Responding to claims that the government is “only about roads,” he stressed that infrastructure spending is part of a wider economic framework. “Infrastructure is just one part of a broader economic strategy. Roads and public works create the environment in which other sectors can flourish,” he said.
The Commissioner also cautioned against judging economic performance solely by immediate outcomes. “Sometimes people judge the economy based on immediate and visible outcomes, such as jobs or new businesses, without fully appreciating the preparatory work that makes those outcomes possible,” he stated.
He emphasised that employment growth is gradual and driven largely by private sector expansion. “Employment growth does not happen overnight. Government alone cannot generate all the jobs needed by the people,” Ekedayen said.
He explained that infrastructure improvements help businesses reduce operating costs and expand operations, ultimately supporting job creation across multiple sectors.
“Every major policy decision — including the focus on infrastructure — is designed with the future prosperity of Delta State in mind,” he added.
Ekedayen reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transparency and citizen engagement, expressing confidence that clearer communication would strengthen public understanding of the state’s economic direction.
