Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has pledged renewed government support for the state’s artisan community, describing them as a vital force in the state’s economic engine.
Speaking through his Deputy, Sir Monday Oyeme, at the 2025 Artisanship Day Celebration held on Thursday, July 10, in Asaba, the Governor assured that issues raised by the informal sector, particularly concerning land allocation and empowerment, would receive swift attention.
“I want to assure you that your earlier request — particularly on the issue of land — has been well received,” Oyeme said. “Once His Excellency returns, your concerns will be addressed, and I am confident you will receive positive responses.”
The Governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering artisans with targeted funding, vocational training, and capacity-building programs to help grow small operations into sustainable businesses.
“This administration will stand with you every step of the way. Our vision is to transform the informal sector into a thriving pillar of wealth creation within our time,” he added.
He lauded the resilience and contributions of artisans across the state, from tailors and welders to barbers, carpenters, and market vendors, describing them as “the hands that build our homes and the foundation of our economic future.”
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The celebration also marked the inauguration of 61 newly appointed coordinators, comprising 25 Local Government Coordinators and 36 representatives from various trade unions.
In his remarks, former Governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, who chaired the event, commended the unity and growth of the artisan community. He urged the state government to deepen its partnership with the group, stressing that they are key to the economic well-being of Delta.
“You are very important to us. Even if others do not recognize your worth, we do,” Okowa said. “You keep this state running through your services. Any support given to this group will reach many people because of your structure and unity.”
Earlier, the State Chairman of the Artisans Association and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Informal Sector Management, Chief Ifeanyi Abanum, presented a list of appeals to the state government. These included the return of a previously allocated land parcel for the Artisan Secretariat, provision of work tools and vehicles for monitoring activities, and consideration for political appointments and financial support.
He noted that the artisan body was a structured and disciplined network with the capacity to implement empowerment programs that directly impact communities. He also affirmed that all 61 newly inaugurated coordinators hold valid voter’s cards, signifying readiness for civic responsibility.
