DELTA State Ministry of Economic Planning has begun a three-day workshop for stakeholders to determine the size and structure of the economy to guide the state government planning for sustainable development.
Our correspondent reports that the initiative is being done in collaboration with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) and the World Bank.
The aim is to provide a clear picture of the size and structure of the state’s economy by highlighting sectors that are driving growth, job creation, and overall development.
The workshop is also designed to build the capacity of statisticians in the state and enhance their skills in GDP compilation and analysis.
The State Director of Statistics, Nkechi Maduemezi said yesterday in Asaba that the compilation of the state’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was also to get its private investment and policy decisions for growth.
She noted that the process would also highlight the state’s contribution to the national economy, showcasing its economic potential and areas for improvement.
Maduemezie encouraged participants to be committed to the training to prepare themselves for future responsibilities.
Mrs Margaret Akinwunmi, facilitator and a staff of NBS, took participants through an overview of the state’s GDP, including its relevance, past, and present status.
According to Akinwunmi, the compilation of the GDP is a vital exercise that provides a clear picture of the size and structure of any economy.
“It captures the value of goods and services produced within the state, showing which sectors are driving growth, creating jobs, and contributing to overall development.
”This initiative is being carried out through a capacity-building programme sponsored by the World Bank, with technical support from the NBS.
”The process will not only highlight Delta State’s contribution to the national economy but will also provide reliable data to guide government planning, private investment, and policy decisions for sustainable development,” Akinwunmi said.
On his part, Mr Bartholomew Ngwee, NBS official , lauded the state government for compiling an up-to-date GDP and emphasized the importance of continuous improvement in this regard.
“Delta is one of the few states in Nigeria compiling GDP every year, which demonstrate its commitment to economic development and planning,” he said.
