The Director of Protocol to the Delta State Governor, Hon. Sunday Onoriode, has said that artisans and other operators in the informal sector constitute about 60 percent of Delta State’s population, stressing that the sector remains a critical force in the state’s economy and deserves greater recognition from government.
Hon. Onoriode made the assertion during an engagement with members of the informal sector, where he commended the Chairman of the Association, Chief Ifeanyi Abanum, for providing effective leadership despite numerous challenges and distractions.
He disclosed that while the Delta State Civil Service has about 60,000 workers, the informal sector boasts over 150,000 registered members, including mechanics, welders, tricycle and motorcycle operators, heavy equipment operators, barbers, hairdressers, makeup artists, tailors and other skilled artisans.
According to him, the figures do not include apprentices learning various trades under the artisans, noting that every craftsman trains others, making the sector’s population even larger.
He further explained that the combined population of traders in the popular Ogbeogonogo, Midwifery and Oko markets alone exceeds the total number of civil servants in the state, underscoring the enormous economic value and electoral significance of the informal sector.
Hon. Onoriode said the ongoing profiling of members would not only strengthen the association but also help expose individuals engaging in criminal activities under the guise of practising legitimate trades.
He assured members that Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori holds the informal sector in high esteem and remains committed to supporting initiatives that will enhance its growth and contribution to the state’s development.
He therefore urged artisans to improve the standards of their businesses and strengthen their union, noting that a well-organised informal sector would contribute significantly to a safer and more prosperous society.
Also speaking, the Senior Political Adviser to the Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguariavwodo, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting the informal sector, describing the ongoing profiling exercise as a vital step towards proper recognition, planning and inclusive governance. He assured members that the Oborevwori administration would continue to implement policies that promote their welfare and economic advancement.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Association, Chief Ifeanyi Abanum, expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for recognising the importance of artisans and other informal sector operators. He pledged the association’s continued support for the profiling exercise and reaffirmed the members’ commitment to maintaining discipline, professionalism and unity while partnering with government to drive economic growth across the state.
