“Nigeria Has Stabilized, Economy Is on the Rise” – Soludo Tells Investors
By Ejike Abana
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has declared that Nigeria’s economy has stabilized and is now on the path to sustained growth, urging investors to take advantage of the improving economic environment.
Speaking at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026, themed Harnessing Our Strengths, Unlocking Our Potentials, Governor Soludo said recent macroeconomic reforms have restored confidence in the nation’s economy and created a stronger foundation for investment.
According to him, Nigeria’s gross foreign exchange reserves have risen to about 52 billion US dollars, a significant improvement from 3 billion US dollars in 2023, providing greater stability for businesses and investors.
Highlighting his administration’s fiscal discipline, Soludo disclosed that Anambra State has not borrowed since he assumed office. He added that the state deliberately declined a World Bank loan to shield its finances from exchange rate volatility.
The governor also called for stronger regional economic collaboration, expressing readiness to partner with Delta State in driving investment and industrial growth. He said Anambra is developing an economic free trade zone anchored by its emerging aerotropolis, describing the relationship between Anambra and Delta as one with enormous economic potential similar to that of New York and New Jersey.
On security, Soludo said the return of heavy commercial activities and Monday traffic in Onitsha demonstrates that the era of enforced sit at home has effectively come to an end, creating a more conducive environment for commerce and investment.
He further urged Nigerians to support locally made products, arguing that increased patronage of indigenous industries, including locally produced textiles such as Akwete fabric, could create more than 10 million jobs nationwide.
The governor called for a coordinated national development strategy that would translate improving macroeconomic indicators into job creation, poverty reduction, and inclusive economic growth across the country.
The summit attracted leading policymakers and global economic experts. Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele, said the Federal Government had laid a solid macroeconomic foundation for states to accelerate economic growth.
Director General of the World Trade Organization, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, advocated economic diversification, digital connectivity, and greater investment in young people as key drivers of Africa’s future prosperity.
Renowned Pan African scholar, Prof. Patrick Lumumba, urged African countries to take full advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area by promoting intra African investment and prioritising energy development as the backbone of industrialisation.
Earlier, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, declared the summit open and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to creating a business friendly environment that will attract local and foreign investments.
