09/02/2025
The Case for Urhobo State: A Vision for Economic Independence and Growth
By Ochuko Edafe
Nigeria is a nation of diverse ethnic groups, each with unique strengths and resources that contribute to the country's development. Among them, the Urhobo people stand as the fifth-largest tribe in Nigeria, yet they remain without a state of their own. The creation of Urhobo State is not just a matter of ethnic recognition—it is an economic necessity that would unlock the full potential of this industrious and resource-rich people.
Urhobo State: A Self-Sustaining Economic Powerhouse
Unlike many regions that depend heavily on the federal government for survival, Urhobo State has the capacity to thrive independently. Our land, resources, and strategic location give us an advantage that, if properly harnessed, could make Urhobo State one of the most economically vibrant states in Africa.
1. A Mega Seaport: The Gateway to Africa
Urhobo land has the potential to host the biggest seaport in Africa. With our access to the Atlantic Ocean and major waterways, an Urhobo deep-sea port would revolutionize trade, attracting international businesses and turning our state into a global maritime hub. This would not only boost our economy but also reduce Nigeria’s overreliance on the congested Lagos ports.
2. An International Airport of Global Standards
A world-class international airport in Urhobo State would serve as a central hub for air travel across Africa, linking international markets and boosting tourism and commerce. Given our central location in the Niger Delta, such an airport would ease air traffic congestion in Lagos and Abuja while opening our state to foreign investors.
3. Industrial Parks and Free Trade Zones
Urhobo State can become Nigeria’s largest industrial and free trade zone, attracting multinational corporations, manufacturers, and tech industries. With vast land space and an abundant labor force, the state could host massive industrial estates producing everything from consumer goods to advanced technologies.
4. River Ethiope: A Global Tourism Destination
The River Ethiope, known as one of the purest rivers in the world, holds immense tourism potential. By dredging and transforming it into a natural water resort, we can build five-star hotels along its banks, offering luxury tourism like the Maldives or Dubai. This would create jobs, attract foreign investments, and make Urhobo State a global tourism destination.
5. Energy Independence: 100+ Years of Uninterrupted Power
Urhobo land is rich in natural gas, which can be harnessed to generate 24-hour electricity for over a hundred years and beyond. With our gas resources, we can build independent power plants to supply uninterrupted electricity, fueling industries, businesses, and households. This will make Urhobo State one of the most energy-efficient regions in the world.
6. Manufacturing: Gas and Electric Cars
With abundant gas deposits and growing advancements in renewable energy, Urhobo State has the potential to manufacture its own gas-powered and electric vehicles. Establishing a car manufacturing industry would place Urhobo on the global map as a leading producer of clean energy vehicles.
7. Agriculture: The Food Basket of the Nation
Urhobo land is fertile and well-positioned to lead in large-scale agriculture. The state could have:
The largest palm plantation for oil production
Massive rubber and cocoa farms for local and international export
The biggest fish farm in Africa, boosting food security and export revenue
With these initiatives, Urhobo State can not only feed Nigeria but also export agricultural products to the world, creating wealth and employment for millions.
Removing Monopoly and Embracing True Federalism
One of Nigeria’s biggest challenges is the monopoly of resources and power in the hands of a few. The creation of Urhobo State would break this monopoly, allowing for fair resource distribution and true federalism, where each region develops based on its strengths.
Urhobo is blessed beyond measure and geographically positioned by God to be a world-class economic hub. If given the chance, Urhobo State would become an economic giant, self-sustaining, innovative, and independent.
My dream is to see Urhobo State become a reality.
Ochuko Edafe
