World Trade Organisation Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala on Monday said Nigeria’s weak maintenance culture is eroding the value of its infrastructure and slowing economic progress.
Speaking at the 2026 Delta State Economic and Investment Summit, the former finance minister stressed that natural resources and budget allocations alone cannot deliver development without proper execution and upkeep of existing assets.
“The fact is that endowments alone do not add value. Budgetary allocations alone do not lead to new roads or good maintenance,” Okonjo-Iweala said. “We lack a maintenance culture in the country. I have to say that. I am Nigerian, but we need that.”
She urged governments to prioritise preserving infrastructure rather than focusing solely on launching new projects, arguing that this approach would yield greater economic returns.
Okonjo-Iweala also called for improved ports and digital infrastructure to cut the cost of doing business and raise Nigeria’s competitiveness. “We need better ports and digital infrastructure, and lower trade costs. Execution is what matters, and successful execution requires focus. It requires prioritisation,” she added.
The three-day summit, organised by the Delta State Government under the theme “Harnessing Our Strengths, Unlocking Our Potentials,” aims to attract investment and drive growth. Vice President Kashim Shettima opened the event on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. Delegations from China, Brazil and other countries are among the participants.
