Renowned peace and development advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, has called on Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to focus on industrialization and implement people-oriented projects that would drive economic growth and provide sustainable employment opportunities for the state’s youth.
Mulade, an environmental rights activist and United Nations Peace Ambassador, made the appeal during a recent press briefing held in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
As the Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Mulade emphasized the urgent need for the Oborevwori-led administration to shift its development priorities toward initiatives that directly impact citizens, stimulate industrial growth, and improve living standards.
He urged the governor to draw inspiration from the developmental strides of his counterparts, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom and Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, particularly highlighting the recent launch of Enugu Airlines, despite the state’s lower revenue base compared to Delta.
“Delta State has far greater resources than Enugu. There is no reason why we cannot float our own Delta Airways, which would not only industrialize the state but also create thousands of jobs for our unemployed youths,” Mulade stated.
While acknowledging the value of infrastructure development, the Gbaramatu leader stressed that industrialization and job creation are more impactful in fostering peace, economic revitalization, and long-term sustainability.
“Infrastructure is important, but empowering our youth through meaningful employment is far more critical. A vibrant, industrial economy is essential for peace and long-term development,” he said.
Mulade further expressed concern over what he described as unfriendly business policies in the state, which he believes discourage investment and economic growth.
“I strongly appeal to His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to make industrialization a top priority. This is key to rescuing our declining economy,” he urged.
“Delta’s business environment is currently unhealthy due to policies that are not favorable to entrepreneurs and investors.”
The development advocate concluded by calling for urgent policy reforms that would stimulate economic activity and unlock the state’s full potential as a regional industrial hub.
