…Oborevwori Commits to Supporting Artisans Further
By Sunday Apah
In a show of solidarity, more than 10,000 registered members of the Informal Sector, comprising various associations of artisans and market women in Delta State, publicly endorsed the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the year 2027.
This was made on Thursday during a gathering that celebrated the contributions of artisans to the state’s economy.
The associations represented included Market Women, Hairdressers, Tilers, Butchers, Aluminum Roofers, National Masons, DeeJays, Catering Services, Event Planners, and many others. Their collective support also extended to Motor Technicians, Bricklayers, Shoemakers, Welders, Spare Parts Dealers, Solar Installers, and various service providers across industries such as photography and catering.
Chief Ifeanyi Abanom, chairman of the artisan body, expressed unwavering loyalty to the continuation of the “Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda,” emphasizing that the celebration of Artisans Day served as a platform to endorse both Tinubu and Oborevwori for the upcoming election in 2027.
During the event, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, highlighted the crucial role artisans play in both local communities and the broader economy of Nigeria. He stated, “Artisans are not just service providers; they are creators, innovators, and problem solvers.”
Oborevwori elaborated that the celebration was a significant affirmation of the administration’s commitment to empowering the informal sector. He noted that the event marked a major milestone with the inauguration of 25 local government coordinators and 36 state trade unions, aiming to further organize and professionalize artisans.
The Governor outlined several initiatives his administration has implemented to promote artisanship, including revitalizing vocational training programs and providing new platforms for access to modern skills and microfinance opportunities. He asserted, “Thousands of artisans are now equipped to grow from small-scale operators to full-fledged business owners.”
He also stressed the importance of the newly inaugurated local government coordinators and trade union leaders, urging them to collaborate, promote innovation, and facilitate training programs that will keep artisans competitive on a global scale. Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to supporting artisans through enabling policies and targeted funding.
Furthermore, he encouraged residents to support local artisans, emphasizing that doing so would help create a value chain that retains wealth within the community. Former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa also underscored the importance of empowering artisans, advocating for structured support to ensure that resources reach those who need them most, thus enhancing the overall economy of the state.
