A prominent peace and environmental rights advocate, Chief (Dr.) Mulade Sheriff, has issued a strong call to the Delta State Government to urgently prioritize large-scale industrialization as a decisive response to rising unemployment and deteriorating socio-economic conditions in the state.
In a statement released to journalists in Warri on Wednesday, Mulade expressed deep concern over what he described as an alarming rate of joblessness, particularly among young people.
He warned that the growing unemployment crisis poses potential security risks if not addressed with immediate and strategic policy action.
While acknowledging the “remarkable and visible achievements” of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in urban infrastructure development, Mulade argued that roads and physical projects alone cannot resolve the structural economic challenges confronting the state.
“The governor has recorded landmark achievements in road construction and other critical infrastructure, and these efforts are commendable,” he stated.
“However, the rising level of unemployment is a red flag with serious security implications. Without deliberate industrialization, poverty and hunger will continue to deepen.”
Mulade stressed that Delta State must recalibrate its development strategy toward policies that actively stimulate industrial growth, attract investment, and generate sustainable employment.
According to him, the state’s strategic location, natural resource base, and human capital position is advantageous to emerge as a competitive industrial hub, provided there is clear political will and coherent policy direction.
The Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area further urged the government to revive moribund industries, strengthen support for small and medium-scale enterprises, and create an enabling environment capable of attracting both local and foreign investors.
He maintained that aggressive and well-structured industrialization would not only reduce unemployment but also expand the state’s internally generated revenue and guarantee long-term economic stability.
Mulade concluded that the time for incremental responses has passed, emphasizing that only a robust industrial base can sustainably tackle joblessness and secure Delta State’s economic future.
