A peace and environmental rights advocate, Chief (Dr) Mulade Sheriff, has urged the Delta State Government to adopt large-scale industrialisation as a strategic response to rising unemployment and worsening socio-economic conditions in the state.
Mulade made the appeal in a statement issued to journalists in Warri on Wednesday, expressing concern over what he described as the alarming rate of joblessness, particularly among young people.
He warned that the growing unemployment situation could pose serious security challenges if not urgently addressed.
While commending Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for what he described as notable achievements in infrastructure development across major cities in Delta State, Mulade stressed that physical infrastructure alone would not sufficiently tackle the increasing challenges of poverty, hunger and unemployment.
According to him, the state government must deliberately shift focus towards policies that would stimulate industrial growth and create sustainable employment opportunities.
“The governor has recorded significant achievements in road construction and other critical infrastructure, and these efforts deserve commendation. However, the rising level of unemployment remains worrisome and requires urgent attention.
“Without deliberate efforts to drive industrialisation, the problems of poverty and hunger may continue to worsen,” he said.
Mulade, who holds the traditional title of Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area, also called on the government to revive moribund industries and create a business-friendly environment capable of attracting both local and foreign investors.
He noted that Delta State possesses significant advantages, including its strategic location, rich natural resources and abundant human capital, which could position it as a major industrial hub if properly harnessed.
“The government should introduce deliberate, people-centred industrial policies, strengthen support for small and medium-scale enterprises and encourage private sector participation. Sustainable job creation can only be achieved through a strong industrial base,” Mulade added.
The environmental rights advocate further noted that aggressive industrialisation would not only help reduce unemployment but also increase internally generated revenue and promote long-term economic stability in the state.
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