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Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State has been called upon to urgently work assiduously to put in place industries in parts of the state as a strategy to curb rising unemployment and worsening socio-economic conditions.
This call was made by Dr. Sheriff Mulade, peace and environmental rights advocate in a statement made available to Independent in Warri, he
expressed concern over what he described as an alarming rate of unemployment across the state, particularly among the youths which will pose strong security threats to the state in no distance time.
While commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he termed “remarkable and visible achievements” in infrastructure development across urban cities in Delta State, Chief Mulade stressed that physical infrastructure alone would not sufficiently address the growing challenges of poverty, hunger and joblessness.
Dr. Mulade noted that the state must deliberately shift attention to policies that stimulate industrial growth and expand employment opportunities for its teeming population.
According to Dr. Mulade, “the governor has recorded landmark achievements in road construction and other critical infrastructure, and these efforts are commendable. However, the rising level of unemployment is an indication to security threats, that demands urgent attention.
“Without industrialization, the problem of poverty and hunger will continue to worsen.”
Dr. Mulade, Ibe-Sorimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, urged the state government to revive moribund industries and create an enabling environment that would attract local and foreign investors.
He added that Delta State’s strategic location, abundant natural resources and human capital gave it a competitive advantage to emerge as an industrial hub if the right policies and political will were put in place.
He added, “the government should introduce deliberate and people-centred industrial policies, support small and medium-scale enterprises, and encourage private sector participation. Sustainable job creation can only be achieved through a robust industrial base”.
The environmental rights advocate maintained that aggressive industrialization would not only reduce unemployment but also boost internally generated revenue and enhance long-term economic stability in the state.
