Yibo Koko Speaks At Niger Delta Economic Summit, Advocates Culture-Driven Development
By Mercy Tula, SOUTH SOUTH CORRESPONDENT – Rivers State cultural advocate and tourism development expert, Yibo Koko, has called for greater investment in the cultural and creative assets of the Niger Delta as part of efforts to diversify the region’s economy beyond oil.
Koko made the call while speaking at the Niger Delta Economic Summit, where he participated as a panellist on the topic, “Unlocking the Non-Oil Economy in the Niger Delta.”
He also presented a paper titled, “Culture as a Sustainable Economic Engine for Growth and Development in the Niger Delta.”
Koko said culture should not be viewed merely as a means of preserving the past, but as a valuable economic resource capable of driving enterprise development, attracting investment and creating employment opportunities.
According to him, the region’s rich cultural heritage, creativity and tourism potential offer significant opportunities for building a more sustainable and diversified economy.
“Culture has never been simply about preserving our past; it is about unlocking the enormous possibilities within our heritage to create enterprises, attract investment, generate jobs, strengthen tourism and build a more sustainable future for our people,” he said.
He noted that the Niger Delta’s economic conversation must expand beyond its traditional association with oil to recognise the immense value embedded in its people, cultural heritage and creative industries.
Koko said the summit provided an opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas and explore practical approaches to unlocking the region’s non-oil economic potential.
He expressed optimism that discussions around culture, tourism and creativity would contribute to a broader development agenda capable of creating sustainable opportunities for communities across the Niger Delta.
