News View Digest

Nigeria First Lady Empowers 500 Women In Edo Through Renewed Hope Initiative Habiba Sam   The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has empowered 500 vulnerable women in Edo State with various business support items under the Renewed Hope Initiative's (RHI) Women Empowerment Programme. This initiative aims to promote economic independence and enhance the living standards of women across the country. The empowerment program, which took place simultaneously in five South-South states, provided beneficiaries with items such as- Gas cookers with ovens,  Deep freezers , Generators, Industrial grinding machines. These items are designed to support women in starting or growing their businesses, contributing to the prosperity of Nigeria. Senator Oluremi Tinubu was represented by the  Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, ,who encouraged the beneficiaries to use the resources judiciously to grow their businesses. She emphasized that the it...

A Year Of Memories For My Lovely Sister-in-Law On Her First Death Anniversary "One year ago today, Auntie  Emete Sam,you took your final bow, Leaving us with tears, and hearts that ache with woe. Your smile, your laughter, your love, still echo in our minds, A bittersweet reminder of the memories we left behind. Your journey to the other world was sudden, yet serene, Leaving us to ponder on the memories we've seen. Though you're no longer with us, your legacy remains. A love that touched our hearts, a memory that still sustains. As we gather today to celebrate your life, We find solace in the memories, and the love that cuts like a knife. One year may have passed, but the pain remains, Yet in our hearts, your memory still sustains. Rest in peace, dear sister-in-law, may your soul find eternal bliss, And may your memory inspire us to love, and live with every kiss." Habiba Sam

Edo First Lady 's Office Champions  Equity And Parity Of The Girl Child  Habiba Sam Edo State Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Vice President, Student Union, University of Benin  has organized an event to promote the importance of  empowering the girl child , tagged 'Save the Girl Child'. Stating the importance of gender Parity and resilience for girls in all aspects of life,  coordinator office of the First Lady,Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, said empowering girls is crucial for creating a better and brighter future . According to her, "empowering a girl child is a  collective responsibility", not just for individuals but for entire communities and nations.  Mrs. Anani, identified several challenges facing girls, including limited access to education, health disparities, cultural and socio-economic barriers, victimization, exploitation, and violence. Which she said can have long-lasting physical and emotional scars, making it essentia...

Governor Okpebholo Making Good His Promises Of Insecurity - Suspends  Traditional Ruler Over Kidnapping  Habiba Sam With the worrisome state of insecurity in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the pronto suspension of Dr.George Oshiapi Egabor,the Okumagbr of Uwano Kingdom, Agenrbode. This decision comes in response to recent cases of Kidnapping and killing in the area, which have left residents in continuous fear and uncertainty  The Uwano Kingdom, located in Estako East Local Government Area, has been plagued by incessant kidnapping and killings, with the latest incident resulting in the death of a Palace Chief, Late John Ikhamate. The situation has become dire, with many residents living in perpetual fear for their lives.  Additionally , the secretary of the Okumagbe, Chief Peter Omiogbemhi, has been arrested by the relevant authorities in connection with the recent incident. This move demonstrates the government's commitment to holding those responsi...

Community Anchor Thanksgiving Service In Honor Of Gov. Okpebholo And Coordinator, Office Of The First Lady  Falmata Ibrahim  Udomi community in  Esan Central,Edo State, has come together to express their gratitude to God Almighty for  Governor Okpebhol's victory,which was upheld by the tribunal recently . The  celebration was held at the historic Apostolic Church Udomi, which was established in 1957,was charged with joy and elation in songs and dancing to God in celebration  of the electoral victory of  the governor Monday Okpebholo and honor to Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, coordinator of the Office of the First Lady . Expressing her heartfelt gratitude to God for the governor's victory, Mrs Edesili  Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady,urged the community to continue praying for him, acknowledging the challenges that come with leadership.  She also highlighted the governor's desire to bring development to Edo State an...

Edo Governor Specifies Death By Hanging For Kidnappers Habiba Sam Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has declared that kidnappers in the state will face the death penalty, specifically by hanging. The governor expressed his readiness to sign death warrants for convicted kidnappers during a stakeholders' meeting with leaders and members of the Arewa Community in Uromi. The governor emphasized that his administration will not tolerate insecurity, killing, and kidnapping in the state. The new law in the state permits the demolition of properties and confiscation of lands used by kidnappers. The governor plans to build vigilante team offices on these lands. The governor announced plans to employ and pay vigilante teams, who will work with security agencies to combat crimes. He emphasized the need to profile people from other states and ensure they do not engage in criminal activities. Also promised to fence markets, install streetlights, and build abattoirs. Meanwhile the Arewa Com...

Unfair Treatment Of Contract Staff In Nigeria's Banking Sector: A Cry For Justice                    Osarugue Flora Aiworo As I sit down to share my story, I am filled with a mix of emotions - frustration, disappointment, and a deep sense of injustice. My name is Osarugue Flora Aiworo (FloraTheDigitalBanker), I joined the Nigerian banking sector in 2011 as a contract staff. Over the years, I have witnessed firsthand disparity in the welfare system of banks, where core staff enjoy entitlements such as allowances, bonuses, loans, and profit-sharing especially ,while contract staff are limited to their monthly salaries. In the banking sector, there are two categories of staff: core staff (or professional staff) and contract staff (or support staff). While core staff enjoy better welfare packages, contract staff, who make up almost 80% of the banking community, are the backbone of the industry. They carry out most of the day-to-day operation...

Edo Health Insurance Commission Wins Prestigious Award for Quality Healthcare Delivery Habiba Sam The Edo State Health Insurance Commission (EDHIC) has been recognized as the Best Health Insurance and Managed Care Government Agency in Healthcare Coordination and Management at the Institute for Health Insurance and Managed Care of Nigeria (IHIMN) Leadership Awards.  This prestigious award acknowledges EDHIC's outstanding performance in delivering quality healthcare services through its health insurance platform. EDHIC's Director General, Mrs. Augusta Ikpea Enaholo, attributed the award to the commission's dedication to building a health insurance system that is inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to the needs of Edo State residents.  Key initiatives that contributed to this achievement include:Digitized Enrollment Systems,Streamlining enrollment processes to ensure efficient and effective registration,Expanded Provider Networks, Partnering with healthcare providers across...

A Plea for Collective Action in Tackling Insecurity in Edo State Habiba Sam A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Executive Director of the Edo State Rapid Response Agency, Chief Abraham Jimawo (JP) has sounded the alarm on the escalating security crisis in Edo State.  As a concerned citizen and leader, Chief Jimawo is urging all stakeholders to join forces to tackle the menace of kidnappings and killings that has plagued the state in recent times across the three senatorial district of Edo State.  The situation has become dire, with people too afraid to go to their farms, and legitimate businesses and activities disrupted by the criminal invaders.  Chief Jimawo emphasizes that criminals are criminals, regardless of their origin, and should be dealt with accordingly, stressing that the government and citizens must work together to reduce insecurity to the barest minimum, acknowledging that complete eradication might be impossible. In recent weeks, ...

Moses Uyi Osaretin Honored With Prestigious Award for Service to Humanity Moses Uyi Osaretin, a renowned public relations expert and administrator, is set to receive the "Distinguished Excellence in Service to Humanity" award from the Catholic Men Organization of the Archdiocese of Benin City.  This prestigious award recognizes Osaretin's remarkable contributions to society through his professional excellence, humanitarian efforts, and selfless community service. Osaretin's commitment to making a positive impact is evident in his work as the Chief Administrative Officer and Public Relations Officer of Igbinedion University Teaching Hospital (IUTH). His dynamic leadership, innovative communication strategies, and bridge-building roles have earned him widespread recognition.  Previous awards, such as the Best TV Presenter of the Year Award in 2004 and the Award of Excellence as Best Senior Staff of the Year in 2023, demonstrate his dedication to excellence. The Catholic...

Enhancing Fire Safety in Edo State: A Collaborative Effort Habiba Sam The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has called for increased efforts to prevent fire outbreaks in the state.  During a meeting with delegates from the Federal Fire Service at the Government House in Benin City, Mrs. Anani emphasized the importance of collaboration to enhance fire safety and prevention measures. The Devastating Impact of Fire Outbreaks Fire outbreaks can have catastrophic consequences, resulting in loss of life and property worth billions of Naira.  Mrs. Anani highlighted the significance of fire safety, citing her personal concern for the welfare of citizens and businesses. As a safety-conscious individual, she always inquires about fire safety measures when visiting places, underscoring the need for proactive approaches to mitigate fire risks. She stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and private business owne...

Habiba Sam  The father of the 6-year-old girl allegedly murdered alongside her pregnant mother in Benin City has come forward. Mr. Uwuigbe Stanley, the father, was spotted at the Edo State Police Headquarters, visibly distraught over the situation. Mr. Stanley had a relationship with the deceased, Loveth Aimienoho Isaac, resulting in the birth of their daughter, Uwuigbe Divine. Due to complications, Divine was born prematurely via cesarean section and spent three months and two weeks in an incubator. Mr. Stanley claimed that his former partner stopped him from seeing their daughter two years ago, citing her new marriage. He stated that he had been unable to locate them since 2023. The father revealed that he only learned about the murder through a friend who informed him after watching a news report on EBS TV online. He expressed shock that neither the woman's family nor anyone else had notified him about the incident. Mr. Stanley is worried that he has not been allowed to see his ...

Habiba Sam Edo State First Lady's Office Hosts GBV Management Committee The Coordinator of the Edo State First Lady's Office, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) and protect women's and children's rights. This call to action was made during the 13th GBV Management Committee meeting at the Government House in Benin City. Mrs. Anani emphasized the need for collective action to address GBV, highlighting its devastating impact on victims. She stressed that both men and women suffer from GBV, but women are disproportionately affected. The Coordinator also noted that GBV encompasses not only physical violence but also emotional trauma with significant socioeconomic implications. Some forms of GBV include,Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) A harmful practice that violates the rights of the girl child,Domestic Violence-Often visible and deeply ingrained in societal norms,Emotional Trauma, Can be infli...

Habiba Sam The Edo State Security Corps has made two significant arrests in Benin City, apprehending a notorious phone snatcher and a fake cop. Oziegbe Adams, a member of a gang specializing in attacking pedestrians and stealing their mobile phones and personal belongings, was arrested around Okhoro in Benin City.  The suspect was caught by men of the Edo State Security Corps during a regular patrol, following credible information. Items recovered from him includes,11 National Identification Number (NIN) cards, 5 ATM cards, and drivers' licenses, 3 mobile phones, 2 power banks, and 8 MTN SIM cards ,other valuables includes 32 necklaces of different kinds and N25,300 in cash with 4 kitchen knives and tertiary institution results  Also, a middle-aged man was also apprehended for impersonation, wearing a police vest and posing as a regular policeman despite having no affiliation with the police force. Both suspects have been handed over to the police for further investigation and...

  Habiba Sam The Nigerian Red Cross Society, with support from the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Society, has provided N38 million to flood-affected communities in Edo State.  The funds were disbursed to 500 beneficiaries in Ikpe and Ogbesse communities, with each recipient receiving N77,000 to improve their standard of living. In a brief with newsmen ,Mr. Wilson Ekhomogiazin, Branch Secretary of the Nigerian Red Cross Society in Edo State, explained that the organization visited the communities in 2024 to assess the flood's impact. The funds are targeted at vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, physically challenged persons, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers. "The Nigerian Red Cross Society has been working to improve the lives of indigent Nigerians in the society."  In 2024, they empowered 1,000 indigent persons in various communities and issued an early warning protocol to them.  This protocol aimed to provide capacity...

Habiba Sam The Edo State Police Command has a new honcho, as Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika assumes duty in Benin City. Agbonika's arrival marks a significant shift in the state's policing landscape, with a focus on maintaining peace and order. In his inaugural address to the command's heads of department, divisional police officers, and tactical commanders, CP Agbonika emphasized the need for peace in Edo State. He assured that the command will implement strategies to ensure effective policing, working closely with the state government, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, youth groups, and other security agencies. The new commissioner highlighted the importance of collaboration in maintaining law and order. By working together with various stakeholders, the command aims to bring sanity to the system and address security challenges. This approach is expected to foster a safer environment for residents and visitors alike. CP Agbonika issued a stern warni...

Habiba Sam In a significant meeting at the Office of the First Lady, Edo State, the Akpakomiza Queens, led by Hon. Dame Princess Esther Eghaghe, reaffirmed their commitment to women empowerment and peace advocacy.  The Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady warmly welcomed the Queens, acknowledging the pivotal role women play in the state's political and social development. The Coordinator emphasized the importance of women in shaping the future of their children and the community, highlighting their potential as leaders and change-makers. The meeting focused on promoting peaceful, law-abiding communities, with a call to action to curb cultism and vigilantism. The Office of the First Lady assured the Akpakomiza Queens of their commitment to meeting their needs and involving them in empowerment programs. The visit marked a renewed commitment to a collaborative approach between the Office of the First Lady and the Akpakomiza Queens. This partnership aims to empower women, develo...

Edo State's Bright Future: A Celebration of Faith and Governance Habiba Sam In a heartwarming display of community spirit and devotion, St. Anthony Catholic Church in Ewato recently hosted a Special Thanksgiving Mass to commemorate Governor Monday Okpebholo's tribunal victory.  The ceremony brought together community members, political leaders, and churchgoers, highlighting the profound connection between faith and public service. Governor Okpebholo expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the church leadership, priests, and congregation for their unwavering prayers, which he credits for bolstering his resolve.  He acknowledged the crucial role of Chief Dr. Leemon Ikpea and his family in uniting the community and exemplifying true leadership through their commitment to faith. Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, emphasized the significance of the service as a testament to hope and unity in the face of challenges. She highlighted the transformative po...

Empowering Communities through Quality Healthcare Habiba Sam On World Health Day, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady in Edo State, emphasized the significance of quality maternal and newborn healthcare in building a robust society. Her visit to Edo Specialist Hospital underscored the importance of accessible healthcare as a fundamental human right. Mrs. Anani stressed that governments and individuals must champion quality healthcare to ensure public health and societal progress. The hospital's management and medical staff demonstrated their dedication to providing comprehensive care, showcasing significant improvements in healthcare delivery.  The visit highlighted the need for collaborative efforts between high-level officials, hospital development, and healthcare services to achieve a healthier future. "Quality maternal and newborn healthcare is crucial for reducing preventable deaths and enhancing community well-being. This can be achi...

Esan Kingdom Establishes Guidelines for Migrants Amid Recent Tragedy Habiba Sam In the wake of recent security threats, including the tragic killing of 16 travelers in Uromi, the Onojie of Ujiogba Kingdom, HRH Solomon Ojeaga, has introduced  a set of guidelines to ensure harmonious coexistence between economic migrants and  indigenous occupants  residing in the area. These guidelines aim to promote mutual respect, understanding, and safety The traditional ruler's message emphasizes the importance of adhering to local customs and regulations, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between migrants and the indigenous population. While addressing the migrants at his palace, Ojeaga reassured them of their safety, highlighting the kingdom's long-standing tradition of hospitality towards people from all walks of life. He encouraged the migrants to disregard negative comments that could potentially lead to violence, instead focusing on building a prosperous life in their adopted home...

New Era for Edo State: Governor Okpebholo's Transformational Leadership Earns Oba Of Benin's  Praise  Falmata Ibrahim  The revered Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, has declared Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo divinely sent to restore Edo State's lost glory. This declaration was made during Okpebholo's visit to the Benin Palace to celebrate his electoral victory. As part of key initiatives, Governor Okpebholo has reinstated the full statutory rights of the Benin Monarch, abolishing traditional councils created by the previous administration.  This move aims to foster a stronger relationship between the government and traditional institution The governor has declared a State of Emergency on Education, prioritizing the rehabilitation of school infrastructure and improving teaching quality to bring dignity back to public education. Governor Okpebholo's leadership style is characterized by inclusivity, fairness, and justice, resonating stron...

Omadino Community Protests Land Grabbing, Seeks Government Intervention Falmata Ibrahim  Some indigenes of Omadino Community in  protest against land grabbing  The Omadino Community in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State is embroiled in a heated controversy over alleged land grabbing by the Metete family.  To express their grievances, community members staged a protest, urging the Delta State Government and the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, CFR, to intervene in the matter. The protest was sparked by claims that Mrs. Mojirin Metete and her family have been illicitly selling community land, prompting concerns about the potential breakdown of law and order in the community.  The protesters, carrying leaves and chanting "we nor go gree oo we nor gree," demanded action from the authorities to address the issue. The Chief Priest of Omadino Community, Mr. Rowland Yomere, highlighted the need for government intervention to prevent further e...

Harrysong, Rude Boy, Dotun Lights up Asaba At Ukodo festival 2025  By Lucy Ezeliora  Commissioner for Works (rural roads) and Public information Mr.Charles Aniagwu, presenting cash gift to one of the entertainers and beneficiaries of UkODO Festival  It was indeed a glamours celebration for lovers of fun in Asaba yesterday as Rude Boy of PSquare, Harrysong and other famous Entertainers thrilled the crowd at the maiden Ukodo festival. Organized by famous musician, Harrysong,the better Pikin’ singer, who is an Executive Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Delta State Ministry of Culture and Tourism at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, the event attracts government personalities, actors and actress including entertainers from all part of the country. Tare Okiri Harrison,A.K.A Harryson Speaking during the festival  Delta State Governor, represented by the State Commissioner for Works (rural roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, appreciates the young tale...

Edo Nuj Chairman Calls For Divine Intervention Through Quarterly prayers For Members  Habiba Sam The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State Council, Dr. Festus Alenkhe, recently organized the quarterly Special Prayer and Fasting session, which aims to seek God's protection and blessings for journalists in the state.  This initiative, which began in January 2022, after Dr. Alenkhe assumed office on December 17, 2021, is designed to provide spiritual support and guidance to members of the union. Dr. Alenkhe emphasized the importance of seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life, citing the benefits of prayer and faith.  He shared a personal experience where the union was promised a bus in July 2023 and received it in April 2024,  just a few days after  a prayer session was conducted in his office against  delays  of promises,attributing the swift response to the power of prayer.  "I urge you all to be prayerful, because God is me...

Warmest Congratulations to you our able and dynamic Executive Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo on your victory at the Election Petition Tribunal.  Mr Governor, for about five months you have been in office so far, you have demonstrated true leadership and commitment to move Edo State forward for the overall betterment of the good people of Edo State.  This victory is a victory for democracy and the rule of law. It is a victory well deserved.  Congratulations to APC and the good people of Edo State.  Chief Abraham Jimawo (JP) Chairman, Sen. Monday Okpebholo for Governor Support Group UK & Ireland, and Former Executive Director Edo State Rapid Response Agency.

Edo Governor Dismisses Opposition's Appeal as Frivolous Habiba Sam Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has expressed confidence in his victory, stating that the opposition's appeal will not succeed.  He accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, of squandering stolen funds on futile litigation. The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal recently affirmed Okpebholo's election, dismissing Ighodalo's petition.  Despite this, Ighodalo has vowed to appeal the decision, citing concerns over the integrity of the electoral process. Speaking at a celebration in Irrua, Okpebholo said, "We have defeated them at the Tribunal, and they said they want to appeal the ruling.  If they like, let them appeal and even get to the Supreme Court. We will defeat them." He emphasized that the people of Edo State have given him a clear mandate, which will not be taken away. Okpebholo highlighted his administration's achievements, includi...

A Congratulatory Message to A Great Leader on his Birthday  Senator Adams Aliu Oshiomhole  Chief Abraham Jimawo beamed with pride as he penned a heartfelt birthday message to his mentor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole. "Happy 73rd birthday to our great leadefather, and mentor!" he wrote. He reflected on Senator Oshiomhole's exceptional leadership qualities, which had inspired him over the years. Under Senator Oshiomhole's guidance, Edo North, Edo State, and Nigeria had flourished, thanks to his tireless efforts to uplift the downtrodden, the poor, and the voiceless. Chief Jimawo also commended Senator Oshiomhole's groundbreaking infrastructural development and quality representation, which had left an indelible mark on modern Nigeria. As he closed his message, Chief Jimawo wished Senator Oshiomhole many more happy returns, celebrating a life dedicated to exemplary leadership and service. Chief Abraham Jimawo (JP) Former Executive Director,Edo State Rapid Response Agency...

A Congratulatory Message to A Great Leader on his Birthday, Senator Adams Aliu Oshiomhole  Happy Birthday to our great leader, father and mentor, Distinguished Comrade, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole on your 73rd Birthday.   Always proud of you for the leadership qualities you have exhibited over the years.  Your leadership style and commitment towards the development of Edo North in particular, Edo State as a whole and Nigeria in general especially in the areas of your care for the down trodden, the poor, the voiceless, infrastructural development and quality representation is second to none in the history of modern Nigeria, and worth emulating. I wish you many more happy returns.  Chief Abraham Jimawo (JP) Former Executive Director, Edo State Rapid Response Agency.

Edo State Government Revolutionizes Workplace Welfare with State-of-the-Art Creche Habiba Sam In a groundbreaking move, the Edo State Government has officially commissioned a cutting-edge creche at the Edo State Secretariat, Sapele Road, Benin City.  This innovative facility is designed to promote dedication and productivity in the workplace by providing a safe and nurturing environment for the children of government workers. The commissioning ceremony was led by Mrs. Edesili Anani, Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, who expressed her enthusiasm for the project.  "Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to enhance the welfare of our workers," she said. "This creche is a testament to our government's commitment to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families." The creche is equipped with an array of amenities, including a library, classroom, kitchen, reception area, sleeping quarters, and a CCTV system to ensure safety and proper m...

Edo State's Mandate Upheld: Tribunal Judgment Reinforces Okpebholo's Victory Habiba Sam The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the duly elected governor, having garnered 291,667 votes.  His closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), secured 247,274 votes, while Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) came third with 22,763 votes. Despite the overwhelming evidence of Governor Okpebholo's victory, the opposition has attempted to clutch at legal straws, hoping for a courtroom miracle.  However, elections are won at the polling units, not in tribunals. The people of Edo made their choice, and that choice has translated into a government delivering on its promises. As the tribunal delivers its judgment, the people of Edo State should rest assured that their mandate remains intact.  The opposition may seek to create doubt, but the truth remains unshaken—Senator Mo...