2027: 10,000 artisans endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori for second term

Over 10,000 members of the informal sector in Delta State, including artisans and market women, on Thursday declared their support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in 2027.

The endorsement was made during the celebration of Artisans Day in Asaba, the state capital, where the groups rallied behind the continuation of the ‘Renewed Hope for MORE Agenda’.

The various associations represented included the Market Women’s Association, Hairdressers, Tilers, Butchers, Aluminium Fabricators, Masons, DJs, Caterers, Tailors, Welders, Solar Installers, Technicians, Shoemakers, Painters, Bakers, Poultry and Fish Farmers, DSTV Installers, and others cutting across 36 state trade unions and all 25 local government areas.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Artisans and Market Women Association, Chief Ifeanyi Abanom, pledged the group’s unwavering support for both Tinubu and Oborevwori.

“We use the Artisans Day Celebration to endorse President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for 2027,” Abanom declared.

Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, commended the contributions of artisans to the state’s economy.

He described them as “the heartbeat of our communities and the fulcrum of our economic future.”

“Today is more than a ceremonial occasion,” the governor noted. “It is a bold affirmation of our collective resolve to recognize, empower, and elevate the informal sector, which remains the silent engine of our state’s economic development.”

Oborevwori listed some of his administration’s efforts to empower artisans: revitalising vocational training programmes, creating platforms for modern skill acquisition, and improving access to microfinance and markets.

He added that many artisans are now being equipped to grow from small-scale operators into full-fledged entrepreneurs.

To the newly inaugurated 25 local government coordinators and 36 trade union leaders, Oborevwori charged them to serve as vital links between the government and the informal sector.

“You have been chosen to lead, represent and inspire. Build solidarity across trades, promote mentorship, and ensure policies reach every artisan,” he urged.

Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s commitment to providing enabling policies, targeted funding, and capacity-building initiatives to turn the informal sector into a thriving economic base.

Former Delta State Governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa, also present at the event, underscored the significance of artisans to Nigeria’s economy.

“Empowerment through structured processes will ensure support reaches the right people. Encouraging artisans will do us a lot better as a society.” Okowa stated.

Source:- Punch