NEWS EDITORIAL

 *NEWS EDITORIAL*  

6,000 Teachers Employed: Governor Okpebholo Restores Hope To Edo Classrooms

*By Festus Alenkhe*

Education is the foundation upon which every thriving society is built. And at the heart of that foundation are teachers. In a landmark decision, the Edo State Governor, *Senator Monday Okpebholo*, has approved the employment of *6,000 teachers* into the state’s public school system. This is not just a recruitment exercise. It is a rescue mission for basic education in Edo State.

For too long, many of our schools, especially in the rural areas, operated with skeletal staff. Some schools had more pupils than teachers. Others depended on PTA teachers and volunteers just to keep classes running. The result was predictable: poor learning outcomes, teacher burnout, and declining confidence in public schools.

That narrative is changing. Reports from across the state confirm that *most schools in rural areas now have teachers working in their schools*. For communities that had almost given up on government presence in education, this is a new dawn.

What makes this intervention even more significant is the decision to *convert all casual teachers engaged by the previous administration to full-time staff on the state government payroll*. For years, these casual teachers worked with little security, poor pay, and no hope of retirement benefits. Governor Okpebholo has now given them dignity. 

*The employment is pensionable.* That single word changes everything. It means job security. It means a future. It means that a teacher in Uromi, Okhuessan , Auchi, lgarra,  Okada,  Agenebode, or Afuze can now plan their life knowing that their service to the state will be rewarded even after retirement.

This policy achieves three things at once: 

1.  *It addresses the teacher deficit* that has plagued our schools for years.

2.  *It rewards loyalty and service* by regularizing casual staff who have kept schools running.

3.  *It restores faith in public service* by showing that government can still keep its promise to workers.

Teachers are not just employees; they are nation builders. They deserve tools, motivation, and respect. These, Edo state government have now deployed. 

To the 6,000 new and regularized teachers: Edo’s children are watching you. Teach them well. Be the reason a child in a village believes they can become a doctor, lawyer,  pilot, engineer, Journalist,  or president of a nation.

To the government: this is commendable. Sustain it. Monitor it. And let this be the beginning of a comprehensive overhaul of our education sector.

Governor Okpebholo has planted a seed. If nurtured well now, Edo’s education sector will blossom again.

*Our children deserve teachers. Today, they have them.*

Script By Festus Alenkhe.

HOW OKPEBHOLO'S SHINE AGENDA IS ADDRESSING EDO'S 35-YEAR RECKONING

HOW OKPEBHOLO'S SHINE AGENDA IS ADDRESSING EDO'S 35-YEAR RECKONING 

By,Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele 

When Governor Monday Okpebholo took office in November 2024, his inaugural messaging centered on five pillars: Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education. To those familiar with Edo's history, this framing carried particular significance. It was not a vague promise to "transform" the state through undefined initiatives. Rather, it represented a systematic acknowledgment of where Edo's governance had failed most consistently over the previous three decades.

Security came first, not by accident. Okpebholo recognized that no coherent development agenda is possible in an environment where citizens experience genuine fear. The administration moved quickly on several fronts. It pursued legislation establishing special criminal courts and state police mechanisms — interventions that had been discussed but not implemented by previous administrations. It launched coordinated operations against cultism, particularly in the Benin metropolis where organized crime networks had entrenched themselves over years. The visible deployment of security personnel, and the integration of community policing approaches signaled that this was not performative rhetoric but sustained operational commitment.

What distinguishes this approach from previous security initiatives is its apparent resistance to cyclical abandonment. Past administrations had launched security crackdowns that faded after news cycles moved on. Okpebholo's administration committed itself to treating security not as a campaign promise but as foundational infrastructure for development — which, strategically, it is.

Healthcare emerged as a second pillar with more enrollment in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EdoHIS), a system designed to expand access to basic healthcare across income levels. This addresses a fundamental reality: Edo's healthcare crisis has never primarily been about the absence of facilities, but about their inaccessibility to ordinary residents due to cost. 

The scheme represented acknowledgment that building world-class tertiary hospitals means little if the majority of the population cannot afford entry. This is the kind of systematic thinking that had been absent from much previous Edo governance.

Infrastructure, the third pillar, captured perhaps the most visible of the administration's early initiatives. The Ramat Park Flyover — that long-delayed symbol of unfulfilled Edo ambition — finally moved from planning documents to active construction. 

Road rehabilitation projects launched across multiple local government areas. Drainage works commenced in Benin City's flood-prone neighborhoods. What matters here is not merely that infrastructure projects were undertaken — multiple administrations had attempted this — but that they were conceived as part of a coherent urban development strategy rather than as scattered interventions.

The fourth pillar, Natural Resources and Agriculture, represents an attempt to diversify Edo's revenue base in a manner that had been discussed but never systematically pursued. This pillar encompasses efforts to develop the state's forestry resources, to create value chains around agricultural production, and to position Edo as a contributor to national food security and export agriculture.

 Early initiatives included distribution of agricultural equipment to farming communities, technical support for smallholder farmers, and strategic planning around commodity production. Whether this translates into sustained rural development and poverty reduction — rather than another cycle of agricultural promises — remains to be seen, but the conceptual framework represents genuine departure from previous approaches.

Education, the fifth pillar, acknowledges that no state escapes poverty through infrastructure alone. Edo's future depends on the quality of human capital it produces and retains. Early administration actions included increased teacher recruitment, salary adjustments to improve retention, and infrastructure investment in schools. 

The administration has also pursued alignment with the federal government's Renewed Hope Agenda, securing projects and resources that benefit Edo's educational institutions. 

What merits careful observation is whether these five pillars represent a strategic framework that will guide decision-making across electoral cycles, or whether they will devolve into campaign rhetoric that proves disconnected from budgetary allocation and institutional practice. 

History suggests caution. Edo governance has demonstrated the capacity to adopt ambitious frameworks while failing to sustain them. The true test of this administration's commitment emerges not in the first year or two — when enthusiasm and available resources typically allow for visible progress — but in years three, four, and beyond, when competing priorities emerge and political attention naturally wanes.

Several factors distinguish this moment from previous transitions, however. First, the five-pillar framework appears grounded in realistic assessment of what Edo's development requires, rather than in mythmaking about the state's role or destiny. There is less performative triumphalism and more pragmatic problem-solving. Second, the administration has moved to document federal government support and resource flows in a manner that creates accountability and institutional memory — critical elements that previous administrations neglected. The compilation of Renewed Hope Agenda projects benefiting Edo State, for instance, prevents the kind of knowledge loss that occurred with previous transitions.

Third, there is apparent recognition that Edo's transformation cannot be imposed from above but requires engagement with stakeholders — diaspora communities, business leaders, traditional authorities, and ordinary residents. The diaspora engagement initiative ("SHINE Beyond Borders"), for instance, suggests awareness that Edo's most educated and successful citizens, many of whom live abroad, represent an untapped resource for development, network, and advocacy.

As Edo State moves through its fourth decade, the fundamental question remains unresolved: can an administration resist the temptation toward cyclical abandonment that has characterized the state's governance history? Can it sustain attention to long-term building even when political pressure points toward short-term spectacle? The Okpebholo administration's five-pillar framework suggests an administration capable of systematic thinking. Whether it translates into systematic execution across multiple electoral cycles — and that is what genuine transformation requires — is the question that will define Edo's next chapter.

The next few years will be instructive. Not because extraordinary progress is possible in that timeframe, but because they will reveal whether this administration possesses the discipline and institutional commitment to resist the patterns that have repeatedly disappointed Edo's residents over the past 35 years. 

Dr. Ebojele PhD in Public Administration is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of

Okpebholo Restores Dignity to 89-Year-Old Woman with Wheelchair and Crutches, Reaffirms Commitment to Edo Elderly

Okpebholo Restores Dignity to 89-Year-Old Woman with Wheelchair and Crutches, Reaffirms Commitment to Edo Elderly

Habiba Sam 

In a heartfelt gesture that has touched many hearts, the Edo State Government has once again shown its dedication to caring for senior citizens with the presentation of mobility aids to an 89-year-old woman, Mrs. Marina Darwang.

Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo donated a brand-new wheelchair and a pair of crutches to Mrs. Darwang to help her move around more easily and regain her independence.

The items were presented on the Governor’s behalf by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Eighemherio Paul Ikhumosa. The presentation took place in a warm and dignified setting, reflecting the administration’s respect for the elderly.

An emotional Mrs. Darwang could not hide her joy as she received the support. She poured out prayers and gratitude to Governor Okpebholo, describing the gift as a clear sign that the government truly cares about the welfare of the aged in Edo State.

She also thanked the Commissioner for Health for the warm reception she got when she visited his office. According to her, the kindness and respect she was shown made her feel valued as a mother and as a citizen.

“You have made an old woman feel important again,” she said. “Governor Okpebholo is a rescuer of the elderly. God will continue to strengthen him.”

Beyond the mobility support, Mrs. Darwang commended the Okpebholo-led administration for its visible strides across Edo State. She specifically noted the government’s efforts to entrench peace, improve security, and take young people away from cultism and violence.

She prayed that God would continue to grant the Governor wisdom, sound health and the strength to serve Edo people better.  

Speaking during the presentation, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole said the gesture was in line with the Governor’s promise to make the well-being of vulnerable groups a top priority. He noted that the administration sees the elderly as custodians of wisdom and heritage who deserve dignity and support.

“The Governor believes that no senior citizen should be left to struggle alone,” Oshiomhole stated. “These mobility aids are small, but they represent a bigger message: that this government sees you, hears you, and cares about you.”

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ikhumosa, added that the Ministry of Health will continue to roll out programs aimed at improving healthcare access, mobility, and quality of life for elderly residents across the 18 LGAs.

The donation to Mrs. Darwang is one of several social welfare interventions by the Okpebholo administration aimed at uplifting vulnerable Edo people. From healthcare to security and youth empowerment, the government says its focus remains on people-centered governance.

For Mrs. Darwang, the wheelchair and crutches mean more than movement. They represent hope, respect, and the assurance that at 89, she is not forgotten.

Dear Husband of My Youth-as you attain yet another new age receive all the blessings 🙏

 ❤️  💖💐💓❣️💙🎈💕😘🥰😍💚❤️🩷💋❤️‍🩹❣️♥️🎎

❤️  🙏✨

Happy Birthday to My Glory 🎈 🎈 

The Husband of My youth 💔❣️❣️

To the man of My heart,💋❣️♥️💌

In this new age attained 🙏I lift you up in prayers🙏

🙏May God  bless you, keep you,crown your new age with joy, good health, long life  divine favour and his light shine upon you always 🙏  

May His hand guide you in every step, His peace guard your heart, and His blessings overflow in your life and all you do🙏

May God renew your strength like the eagle’s🙏 

May He keep you in total wellness and make every path straight🙏

May God’s favor, wisdom and protection follow you all the days of this new year and beyond 🙏

May your heart desires be granted and may we celebrate many more birthdays together in love and health🙏 

May He fill our home with peace and your life with purpose🙏

May he  continue to strengthen you, bless your works, and keep you under His protection always and continually make you a reference point of his goodness, mercy and grace 🙏  

May this year bring you testimonies that will make us shout hallelujah🙏🥰🙌

Happy Birthday My love. I pray for many more beautiful years together🙏

l Love you Endlessly💕

Okpebholo Welcomes New Okumagbe of Uwanno, Urges Peace and Grassroots Growth

Okpebholo Welcomes New Okumagbe of Uwanno, Urges Peace and Grassroots Growth

By SSA on Public Affairs, Razak Zekeri

Saturday was a historic day in Uwanno Kingdom as Senator Francis Asekhame Alimikhena was officially installed as the Okumagbe of Uwanno Kingdom.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who attended the colourful ceremony, described the coronation as a turning point for the kingdom. He called on the new monarch to use his long years in public service to promote peace, unity and sustainable development.

The Governor noted that Alimikhena’s rise to the throne comes with a strong pedigree. Having served two terms as a Senator of the Federal Republic, he brings experience, contacts and governance knowledge that can attract growth to Uwanno.

“Your coming to this sacred throne is timely,” Okpebholo said. “The wealth of experience you gathered in the Senate will help in mobilising development and opening new opportunities for your people.”

He urged the Okumagbe to make unity, fairness and inclusiveness the foundation of his reign. He also reminded him that traditional rulers have a duty to protect culture, hold communities together, and drive development from the grassroots.

As the father of all, you must rule with wisdom, humility and an open heart,” the Governor said. “Ensure that no son or daughter of Uwanno is left behind.”

Governor Okpebholo also called on indigenes of Uwanno at home and abroad to support the new king and work together for the progress of the kingdom.  

“A kingdom is strong when its people are united. Where there is unity, there is peace. Where there is peace, there is progress,” he added.

He assured that his government will continue to support initiatives that advance communities across Edo State.

Also at the event, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, congratulated the new monarch. He commended Alimikhena for his development strides while in the Senate and prayed for divine wisdom as he begins his reign.

In his remarks, the new Okumagbe of Uwanno  described the day as “a new dawn of peace, love and development” for the kingdom. 

He announced the creation of a *Uwanno Development Fund, UDF, to mobilise resources for the transformation of Uwanno land.  

“Together, we will build a Uwanno that works for everyone,” he said.

The ceremony drew traditional rulers, political leaders and a large gathering of people who came to witness the historic event.

2 Years of Asphalt -: How Okpebholo’s Road Revolution Is Connecting Edo Central, North & South

2 Years of Asphalt -: How Okpebholo’s Road Revolution Is Connecting Edo Central, North & South

By Festus Alenkhe

Two years ago, Edo people asked for action, not speeches. Today, the answer is written in tar, concrete, and kilometres of new roads.

Under  Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, the hum of graders and the smell of fresh asphalt have become the soundtrack of governance. From Edo South to Edo Central and Edo North, the administration has turned infrastructure from a campaign promise into daily reality.

The roads that once swallowed vehicles, cut off farms, and trapped communities in erosion are now being opened up. And with them, markets, schools, and livelihoods are opening up too.

Edo South: Benin and Environs Getting a New Look  

In the heart of Benin City, history is being made. The Ramat Park Flyover, Edo’s first, is 99% ready and slated for commissioning in November 2026. The 949-metre bridge, with 350m and 214m link roads, is designed to ease the gridlock that has choked the city for years.

Across the metropolis, other projects are breathing new life:  

The 14km Ohoghobi–Evbhukhu Boundary Road is almost done, with massive drainage to fight erosion in Oghe and Sapele Old Road axis.  

The 8.25km Amufi–Okpagha–Egan Road now connects Benin–Agbor and Benin–Auchi highways, and comes with 5 water retention basins to end decades of flooding.  

Okhunmwun Road, is offering a new escape route for Oluku, Siluko and Ekehuan residents, with 1.2km already asphalted.  

On Upper Ekehuan, concrete paving is ongoing, while the Catholic Charismatic Road is also under construction.  

Palace Road and the Ekiuwa–UNIBEN Road* have been fully asphalted, and the Ekiuwa gully has been reclaimed.  

And on Sapele Road, major rehabilitation is ongoing. The Governor says sections linking Edo and Delta will be opened to traffic in the coming weeks.

Edo Central: Esan Land Linked and Dualised 

In Esan, the story is about connection.  

The Ekpoma–Uromi–Ubiaja dualisation is in full swing. “From Ekpoma to Ubiaja, we are dualising the road,” the Governor declared.  

The second phase of Amedokhian–Iruele–Awo Road is ongoing.  

The 26km Unewa–Ohe–Uzea–Awo Road will link over 15 communities and connect directly to the railway station at Awo.  

Ewu–Uromi–Igueben–Ekpoma is getting an 11.5km dual carriageway, with contractors promising to deliver on time.  

New approvals include Iruekpen–Ozalla–Sabo Road. while the Uromi–Onewa–Udomi–Ibhiolulu–Afuda–Idumoza route is now at an advanced stage of rehabilitation.

Edo North: Afemai Corridors Under Repair  

In the North, the focus is on opening up trade routes.  

Construction is ongoing on the 9.6km Auchi–Igarra–Ibillo Road, with palliative works also covering Auchi–Igarra–Aiyetoro–Unemu–Nekhua–Aiyegunle–Ekpesa–Ibillo–Ekor.  

Along the Auchi–Igarra–Aiyetoro corridor, over 45 failed portions are being fixed to improve movement and link Edo to neighbouring states.

Institutions and Rural Links  

Even campuses are not left out. The Edo State Polytechnic, Usennow has a 5km network of internal roads ready for use.  

The Ukpenu–Emuhi–Ugiamen–Ehor Road has also been approved for construction.

What This Means for the People 

For years, residents of Ohoghobi, Amufi, Okpagha and communities across Akoko-Edo battled erosion and bad roads. Today, drainage works are 80% complete, contractors are on site, and crucially, “contractors are not being owed.” That means work is steady, even in the rains.

Rural farmers can now move produce to market. Students can get to school. Patients can reach hospitals faster.

Governor Okpebholo puts it simply: _“I am here to work for the people of Edo State, just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu works for Nigerians, bringing hope to the people.”_  

That hope is now measured in asphalt.

As the administration marks 2 years in office on November 12, many of these roads are ready for commissioning. Others are moving fast because funding is prompt and supervision is constant.

Edo Is Moving 

From linking 15+ communities in Edo Central, to creating alternative routes in Edo South, to fixing failed sections in Edo North, the message is clear: this government is building roads for every senatorial district, every LGA, every ward.

Edo is no longer waiting.  

Edo is moving.

And the road to that movement was built one project at a time.

Festus Alenkhe writes from Benin City

Edo:​‌‌‍​‌‌‍⁠⁠‌‌‍‍‍⁠‌​​‌​VGN commends Okpebholo’s choice of Ecological Commission Chairman Commendation

Edo:​‌‌‍​‌‌‍⁠⁠‌‌‍‍‍⁠‌​​‌​VGN commends Okpebholo’s choice of Ecological Commission Chairman 

By Imelda Osayande

 Mr. Nosa Imadiyi, Coordinator,  (VGN)-  Manchester Chapter in Edo. 

           Mr. Terry Igiebor-Chairman Ecological  Funding and Management Commission.

The Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Manchester Chapter in Edo, has commended Gov. Monday Okpebholo for appointing Mr Terry Igiebor as Chairman of the state’s Ecological Funding and Management Commission.

In a statement signed by its Coordinator, Mr Nosa Imadiyi, on Friday in Benin, the group pledged its support for the commission’s mandate to tackle flooding, erosion and environmental degradation across the state.

Imadiyi said the appointment reflected the governor’s commitment to environmental sustainability and disaster prevention in the state.

He said the choice of Igiebor demonstrated that Okpebholo was a leader who listened and acted, describing the appointment as a “bold and people-centred decision.”

“Gov. Monday Okpebholo has once again shown that he is a leader who listens and acts by appointing a man of Mr Terry Igiebor’s pedigree, capacity and grassroots experience.

“With this appointment, the government has sent a clear message that the welfare of Edo people remains a top priority,” he said.

The VGN coordinator noted that the state had, in recent years, suffered the devastating effects of flooding, erosion and environmental degradation, which had displaced communities, destroyed farmlands and threatened livelihoods.

To address the challenges, Imadiyi pledged the group’s readiness to partner with the commission.

He said that, as a grassroots security and community-based organisation, VGN was strategically positioned to support the commission through public sensitization, early warning systems and community mobilisation across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.

“Environmental security is directly linked to national security, as ecological disasters often lead to insecurity, displacement and poverty,” he said.

Imadiyi expressed confidence that Igiebor’s wealth of experience in governance, grassroots mobilisation and community development made him the right person to drive the commission’s mandate.

He added that the new chairman would deliver results that would make the state more resilient to climate change.

“VGN Manchester believes that Igiebor is a round peg in a round hole.

“We are confident that under his leadership, the ecological commission will not only respond to emergencies but also implement long-term policies that will safeguard the environment for future generations,” he said.

Imadiyi prayed for God’s wisdom, good health and strength for the governor and the new chairman to deliver a safer and more prosperous Edo.

He urged all stakeholders, community leaders and citizens to support the governor’s administration and the new commission to succeed.

Closer to the People: How Governor Monday Okpebholo Is Quietly Rebuilding Primary Health Care in Edo’s Villages

Closer to the People: How Governor Monday Okpebholo Is Quietly Rebuilding Primary Health Care in Edo’s Villages

By Festus Alenkhe

Development should not be judged only by the flyovers in Benin or the big hospitals in the city. True progress shows up where it matters most — in the village square, at the ward clinic, in the small PHC that a mother walks to at 2am with a sick child.

That is where Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s story is unfolding in Edo State.

From day one, his administration decided to put Primary Health Care, PHC, at the center of its agenda. Not as a side project. Not as a press statement. But as the first line of defense for every Edo family. Six months later, the changes are no longer on paper. They are on the ground.

1. The Buildings Are Coming Back to Life.

Drive through the 18 Local Government Areas today and you will see it. 

In Uromi, the PHC that once had broken windows and leaking roofs now has a fresh coat of paint. In Auchi, the abandoned center has been reopened. In Igarra and in parts of Ovia North East, facilities that collected dust for years have solar panels on the roof, boreholes for clean water, and new perimeter fences. 

The goal is simple: make sure a clinic can run day and night, even when NEPA goes off, and make sure patients and staff are safe.

2. People to Attend to People

A building without staff is just an empty room. The government knew that. 

So nurses, midwives, and community health extension workers are being recruited and redeployed to places that were left behind. The era of “one nurse covering five communities” is gradually fading. 

Training is also ongoing. Health workers are being retrained on maternal care, newborn delivery, and emergency response so that when a woman walks in for antenatal, she gets proper care right there.

3. Drugs and Tools, Where They Are Needed  .

No more stories of “come back next week, we don’t have drugs.” 

Through partnerships with NPHCDA and other development partners, essential medicines are now being sent directly to PHCs. Delivery beds, immunization fridges, blood pressure machines, and basic lab equipment have been moved in. 

The idea: treat malaria, diarrhea, antenatal cases, and minor emergencies at the community level so people don’t have to spend transport money to rush to Benin for things that should be handled in their LGA.

4. Mothers and Children First.

This is where the impact hits home. 

Immunization drives have been scaled up. Antenatal care is being strengthened. Children under 5 are getting free treatment in many PHCs. 

And for communities that maps forget, the government is sending mobile health teams into riverine areas of Ovia South West and hard-to-reach spots in Etsako Central. Boats, motorcycles, and health workers are taking vaccines and checkups to the people instead of waiting for the people to come to them.

5. Records, Supervision, and Community Ownership. 

What gets measured gets fixed. 

For the first time in a while, there is a serious push for proper record-keeping in PHCs. The State Primary Health Care Development Agency is carrying out more supervisory visits. Community health committees are being revived so that villagers can ask questions, monitor drugs, and protect the facility as their own.

Why This Matters
A strong PHC system does three things: 
It takes pressure off our big hospitals. 
It saves families money. 
And most importantly, it saves lives.

Of course, the work is not finished. The clinics will need consistent funding. Drugs must not be diverted. Health workers must be motivated and paid on time. Accountability cannot sleep.

But a foundation has been laid.

If this continues, years from now we will look back and say: this was the administration that brought healthcare home. The administration where a child in Agbede didn’t have to travel far for treatment. Where a trader in Ekpoma could check her BP in her ward. Where a pregnant woman in Okhuessan could deliver safely 10 minutes from her house.

That is governance with a human face. 
Healthcare that is close, affordable, and working.

Script by Festus Alenkhe

Edo @ 35: SSA Pubic Affairs, Razak Zekeri Urges Okpebholo To Immortalise Founding Fathers As Part Of SHINE AGENDA

Edo @ 35: SSA Pubic Affairs, Razak Zekeri Urges Okpebholo  To Immortalise Founding  Fathers As Part Of SHINE AGENDA

As Edo State marks its 35th Creation Anniversary on August 27, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs, Comrade Razak Zekeri, has called on the working Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to use the occasion to honor and immortalize the founding fathers and past leaders of Edo and the old Bendel State.

A Look Back: How Edo State Was Created
Comrade Zekeri recalled that August 27, 1991 was the day the then military government of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida split the old Bendel State into two Edo and Delta States.

Bendel State, with Benin City as capital, was itself created in 1976 from the defunct Mid-Western Region which was carved out of the Western Region in 1963 through a historic referendum. The Mid-West was Nigeria’s first and only region created by plebiscite, and it gave the country some of its earliest self-governing institutions.

“For 35 years, Edo has carried that legacy forward,” Zekeri said. 
“Bendel and now Edo gave Nigeria leaders who built institutions, not just roads. Men like  Professor Ambrose Alli, Brigadier Samuel Ogbemudia, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole and others laid the foundation we are building on today.”

The SSA Public Affairs appealed to Governor Okpebholo to immortalize these past governors and leaders by naming key institutions, hospitals, schools and major roads after them as part of the anniversary celebration.

“I make a passionate appeal to our working Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, that as part of Edo @ 35  and in line with his SHINE Agenda ,we should immortalize our heroes. 

Let us name a Teaching Hospital after Prof. Ambrose Alli . Let us name a major road or sports complex after  Brig. S.O. Ogbemudia. Let institutions be named after  Chief Agbasika Ini, Chief Lucky Igbinedion, Chief Oyegun and other patriots who served Edo and Bendel with distinction.”

According to him, immortalizing these leaders will preserve our history, inspire the younger generation, and reinforce the values of good governance, service and democracy that they stood for.

Comrade Zekeri commended Governor Okpebholo for the visible progress recorded so far under the SHINE Agenda in the areas of  Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Education, and Natural Resources/Economic development.

He cited the deployment of medical equipment to General Hospitals, renewed fight against cultism and kidnapping, ongoing road projects across the 3 senatorial districts, and youth empowerment programmes as proof that the administration is committed to moving Edo forward.

He urged all Edo people at home and in the diaspora to use the 35th anniversary to reflect on the journey from Mid-West Region to Bendel and now Edo, and to unite for the progress of the state.

“As we celebrate 35 years, let us remember where we are coming from. From Mid-West to Bendel to Edo. Let us celebrate our heroes, support our present leadership, and work together for the Edo of our dreams,” he added.

Comrade Zekeri, on behalf of himself and stakeholders in the public affairs space, congratulated Governor Okpebholo and all Edo people on the milestone.

Happy 35th Anniversary to Edo State. Edo will continue to shine.

Signed:
Comrade Razak Zekeri
Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs
Edo State Government
August 27, 2026

2026 IYD: WANEP Urges Increased Investment in Youth Leadership for Peace and Sustainable Development

2026 IYD: WANEP Urges Increased Investment in Youth Leadership for Peace and Sustainable Development

 Habiba Aniekan Sam 

The West Africa Network for Peacebuilding, WANEP-Nigeria, has called on government, development partners and other stakeholders to commit more resources to youth leadership, education, innovation and civic engagement as a pathway to lasting peace and national development.

The appeal was contained in a statement released to mark the "2026 International Youth Day", with the global theme: Different Contexts, Common Aspirations.

According to WANEP-Nigeria, although young people across Nigeria grow up in diverse social, economic and political realities, they share the same hopes: peace, dignity, access to quality education, decent jobs, meaningful inclusion in governance, and a sustainable future.

The organization noted that young Nigerians between the ages of 18 and 35 make up more than half of the country’s population. Over the years, they have played active roles in peacebuilding, entrepreneurship, climate action, humanitarian work, technology, and community development.

“Despite the different environments they find themselves in, Nigerian youths have continued to show that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but leaders of today,” the statement read.

However, WANEP-Nigeria highlighted that many young people still grapple with serious challenges. These include high rates of unemployment, insecurity, inequality, spread of misinformation, and limited access to platforms where they can influence policies and decisions.

“Even in the face of these obstacles, young Nigerians have remained resilient. They continue to organize, innovate, and push for stronger, more peaceful and inclusive communities,” the organization said.

The statement also spotlighted WANEP-Nigeria’s ongoing work to promote the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security, and related resolutions.

The organization said it has broadened its outreach to universities across the country through awareness campaigns, public lectures, policy dialogues, and strategic partnerships. The aim, it explained, is to help students better understand the role of youth in preventing conflict and building peace.

Speaking on the significance of the day, the National Coordinator of WANEP-Nigeria, Dr. Bridget Osakwe, said International Youth Day offers a moment to acknowledge young people’s contributions and to create better conditions for them to thrive.

“Young people may come from different backgrounds and face different realities, but their aspirations are the same. They want peace, opportunity, inclusion, and a better future for all,” Dr. Osakwe stated.

She added that Nigerian youths are already leading change in their communities, and that deliberate investment in them will yield a more peaceful, resilient and prosperous Nigeria.

WANEP-Nigeria therefore urged federal and state government institutions, development partners, the private sector, universities, traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society groups to scale up investments in youth leadership development, education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and civic participation.

The organization stressed that providing inclusive opportunities for young people to take part in decision-making is not optional. It is critical to achieving the 'Sustainable Development Goals' and to securing long-term stability for the country.

“As we mark International Youth Day 2026, let us move beyond rhetoric. Let us invest in the potential of our youth. That is the surest way to build a Nigeria where peace and development are sustainable,” WANEP-Nigeria concluded.

CSJ Demands Stronger Institutional Reforms to Block Corruption in Health, Education Sectors

CSJ Demands Stronger Institutional Reforms to Block Corruption in Health, Education Sectors

By   Emmanuel Iyoho 

Dignitaries and stakeholders in a group photograph during the books Presentation of the follow up corruption risk assessment on the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, follow up corruption risk assessment on the system review on the National Health Insurance Authority and follow up corruption risk assessment on the Universal Basic Education Commission reports held at the Reiz Continental Hotel Abuja recently.

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has called for stronger institutional collaboration, continuous monitoring and sustained multi-stakeholder engagement to ensure that anti-corruption reforms translate into concrete improvements in Nigeria’s health and education sectors.

The Lead Director of CSJ, Eze Onyekpere, made the call recently in Abuja at the public presentation of three follow-up Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) and System Review Reports covering the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

Onyekpere said the exercise, undertaken in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with support from the European Union-backed Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC II) Programme, was aimed at strengthening anti-corruption processes and reforms in critical public institutions.

He said the three institutions were strategically important to the realisation of Nigerians’ rights to healthcare and education, stressing that effective governance in the agencies was essential to sustainable national development.

According to him, the broader objective of the collaboration was to improve the effectiveness of anti-corruption laws, policies, interventions and strategies at national and sub-national levels, with the expectation of achieving greater compliance, systemic change and behavioural transformation.

Onyekpere stressed that anti-corruption laws and policies should not be viewed as ends in themselves, but as instruments for achieving lasting institutional and societal change.

He noted that Nigeria’s commitment to fighting corruption was reinforced by constitutional provisions and international obligations, including the United Nations Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption.

The CSJ director, however, warned that such commitments could only produce meaningful results through sustained engagement involving both state and non-state actors.

“Laws, policies and standards do not implement themselves. They require the action of institutions through human beings,” he said.

Highlighting key lessons from the reviews, Onyekpere called for improved dissemination of findings and recommendations through regular briefings and engagements with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) responsible for implementation.

He advocated stronger inter-agency collaboration, particularly among anti-corruption agencies and other relevant government institutions, noting that some recommendations required coordinated action beyond the direct control of the agencies assessed.

The CSJ boss further called for multi-stakeholder forums involving anti-corruption agencies, MDAs, the media, civil society organisations and development partners to drive and institutionalise reforms arising from system reviews and corruption risk assessments.

He also urged public institutions to embrace peer learning and continuous dialogue, stressing the need for MDAs to benchmark their operations against institutions regarded as best in class.

Supporting the call for systemic reforms, Chairman of the ICPC, Dr. Musa Aliyu (SAN), said the exercise reflected the Commission’s increasing emphasis on preventing corruption by strengthening institutional systems rather than relying solely on prosecution.

Aliyu said the ICPC’s mandate empowered it to identify vulnerabilities within public institutions and recommend reforms capable of preventing corruption before it occurs.

He explained that the follow-up assessments were designed to determine the extent to which recommendations from previous reviews had been implemented, identify areas of progress, expose unresolved weaknesses and propose additional reforms.

He said the true value of system studies and corruption risk assessments was not in the production of reports but in the implementation of their recommendations.

According to him, their impact should ultimately be measured by improvements in governance, accountability, transparency, operational efficiency and service delivery.

Aliyu stressed that the assessments were not intended to apportion blame but to promote continuous institutional improvement and strengthen accountability across government.

He said NHIA, NPHCDA and UBEC were selected because of their strategic roles in providing essential healthcare and education services to millions of Nigerians.

While acknowledging progress made by the agencies in implementing some previous recommendations, the ICPC chairman said significant reforms remained outstanding and urged their managements to sustain the momentum by implementing all outstanding recommendations.

“The fight against corruption cannot be won through enforcement alone. Sustainable success depends on building resilient institutions with transparent systems, robust internal controls, effective oversight mechanisms and a culture of accountability,” Aliyu said.

He reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to collaborate with MDAs, oversight institutions, development partners and civil society organisations to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the recommendations.

Aliyu also acknowledged the support of the European Union-backed RoLAC II Programme and CSJ in the review process.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Prof. Tunji Olaopa, said corruption prevention through institutional reforms offered a more sustainable solution than relying exclusively on law enforcement.

Olaopa commended the ICPC for prioritising system reviews and integrity plans, noting that transparent governance structures remained a strong defence against corruption.

He urged public institutions to embrace technology-driven governance, transparent recruitment processes, conflict-of-interest declarations and stronger internal audit systems.

The FCSC chairman also challenged government agencies to move beyond mere compliance with regulations and institutionalise continuous reforms that would promote prudent management of public resources.

The event featured the presentation of three reports: the Report of the System Review on the National Health Insurance Authority, the Report of the Follow-up Corruption Risk Assessment on the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, and the Report of the Follow-up Corruption Risk Assessment on the Universal Basic Education Commission.

The initiative is aimed at strengthening ongoing anti-corruption reforms and ensuring that recommendations from previous assessments translate into measurable institutional improvements.

The stakeholders emphasised that the fight against corruption requires sustained engagement rather than one-off interventions, with effective monitoring, collaboration, transparency and accountability necessary to ensure that reforms are implemented and institutionalised.

RJN Trains Community Monitors, Demands Transparency, Accountability in Resource Governance

RJN Trains Community Monitors, Demands Transparency, Accountability in Resource Governance

By  Emmanuel Iyoho 

Some participants including the North Central Coordinator of RJN Nigeria, Macdonald Ekemezie,  FCT State Coordinator of RJN Nigeria, Collins Nyong, others pose for the press at the One-Day Step-Down Training on Community Monitoring organised by the Resource Justice Network Nigeria, FCT Chapter, The training, held at the Centre for Transparency Advocacy, Gwarinpa Estate in Abuja recently.

The Resource Justice Network (RJN) Nigeria has called for greater transparency, accountability and equity in the management of Nigeria’s natural resources, urging communities and civil society organisations to take a more active role in monitoring extractive activities, government projects and the implementation of public policies.

The call was made in Abuja at a One-Day Step-Down Training on Community Monitoring organised by the Resource Justice Network Nigeria, FCT Chapter, on Thursday, August 6, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots participation in governance and promote responsible management of public and natural resources.

The training, held at the Centre for Transparency Advocacy, Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja, brought together members of the network, civil society representatives, community advocates and other stakeholders who were trained on practical approaches to community monitoring, grassroots accountability and citizen engagement.

The programme featured presentations on grassroots accountability through community monitoring, the roles and responsibilities of community monitors, membership registration and the RJN Ethics Policy. Participants also shared experiences and best practices during an interactive session.

Speaking with journalists after the training, the North Central Coordinator of RJN Nigeria, Macdonald Ekemezie, said the initiative was designed to empower communities in order  to monitor mining and other extractive activities taking place within their areas and demand accountability from those responsible.

Ekemezie described RJN as a coalition of civil society organisations working on issues relating to the management of Nigeria’s resources, particularly extractive resources, saying the network was part of a global movement formerly known as Publish What You Pay.

According to him, the organisation seeks to promote transparency in resource management and mobilise citizens to ask questions about how the country’s resources are being utilised.

He said RJN operates across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory through a structure comprising national leadership, a board and state coordinators.

Ekemezie said his involvement in resource-governance advocacy was motivated by the paradox of Nigeria being richly endowed with natural resources while continuing to face serious challenges associated with poor resource management and environmental degradation.

He said environmental degradation and poor management of natural resources had contributed to challenges affecting communities and the environment, stressing that Nigerians should be able to benefit from the resources naturally available in their communities.

Explaining the importance of community monitoring, Ekemezie said communities were often the most affected by mining and other extractive activities, yet residents sometimes lacked adequate information about what was being extracted from their land.

He said the training would enable community monitors to understand what was happening within their communities, ask relevant questions, document activities and hold mining operators and other stakeholders accountable.

“This is an opportunity for them to monitor exactly what is going on within their communities in terms of extraction activities, ask questions and hold those carrying out mining activities accountable,” he said.

Ekemezie also called for greater cooperation among traditional rulers, community leaders and youths, urging them to work together to protect the interests of their communities.

He warned that communities could be weakened when external interests employed divide-and-rule tactics to create disagreements among local stakeholders.

He therefore urged traditional institutions, community leaders and youths to work as an integrated group capable of engaging government authorities and extractive companies on issues affecting their communities.

The RJN North Central Coordinator further called on the Federal Government and relevant authorities to uphold the principles of resource justice, equity and transparency in the management of Nigeria’s extractive sector.

He stressed that people living in resource-rich communities should not be excluded from the benefits derived from resources found within their areas.

Also speaking, the FCT State Coordinator of RJN Nigeria, Collins Nyong, described the training as a success, saying the turnout and active participation of stakeholders demonstrated growing interest in community-based accountability.

Nyong, who is also the Senior Program Officer Youth for Change Initiative, Abuja  said the programme was the first step-down training of its kind organised by the FCT Chapter, adding that similar training programmes were being conducted in other parts of the country.

He said the objective was to build the capacity of civil society organisations and members of the RJN network in the FCT, while creating partnerships around resource justice and community monitoring.

According to him, participants were expected to become community monitors, particularly in relation to activities in the extractive sector, including mining.

He explained that community monitors would serve as a link between communities and the wider public by observing activities within their areas, documenting relevant developments and ensuring that issues concerning extractive activities were properly reported.

“They are the people who serve as a link between the communities and the wider public,” Nyong said.

In his opening remarks, Nyong described community monitoring as an important tool for strengthening democratic governance and improving public service delivery.

He urged participants to apply the knowledge acquired during the training to promote transparency, responsible resource management and sustainable development in their respective communities.

Meanwhile, a participant at the training and Executive Director of the Institutional and Sustainable Development Foundation, Mr. Paul Ogwu, called for stronger capacity among civil society organisations in Abuja to enable them effectively monitor government projects, policies and regulatory agencies.

Ogwu said the emergence of a formal structure for the Abuja Resource Justice Network was a welcome development, particularly because Abuja hosts the headquarters of many government institutions and organisations.

He said strengthening the capacity of the coalition would enable civil society actors to engage policymakers and government institutions more effectively on resource governance and public accountability.

Ogwu said the role of the network should go beyond monitoring projects to tracking the implementation of government policies and the operations and reports of relevant regulatory agencies.

He urged members to consistently engage regulators and ensure that government policies were implemented according to established standards.

The Executive Director cautioned members against treating the training as an end in itself, urging them to see it as the beginning of a broader engagement with government, policymakers and other stakeholders.

He described the Resource Justice Network as part of a global coalition that had stood the test of time, stressing the need for members to take the network seriously and continually build their capacity.

According to Ogwu, the mandate of the coalition extends beyond the extractive sector to areas including climate change, forestry, agriculture, solid minerals, critical minerals and anti-corruption.

He said strengthening civil society capacity in these areas was essential not only to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals but also to building a viable country and society where citizens could benefit from responsible resource governance.

The stakeholders called for sustained citizen participation, stronger community networks and effective collaboration between civil society organisations, traditional institutions, government agencies and communities to ensure that Nigeria’s natural resources and public resources are managed transparently and in the interest of the people.

The FCT Chapter of RJN reaffirmed its commitment to building a strong network of community monitors capable of promoting transparency, accountability and fair resource governance across the Federal Capital Territory.

Participants expressed appreciation for the initiative and pledged to apply the knowledge acquired to strengthen citizen engagement, monitor public projects and promote better governance and sustainable development.

A'Ibom Community, Abuja Unveils Three-Member Liaison Team to Strengthen Ties with Home State

A'Ibom Community, Abuja Unveils Three-Member Liaison Team to Strengthen Ties with Home State

By  Emmanuel Iyoho 

From right. Mr Peter Saturday, His lordship Bishop Anthony Udeh, and Mr Emmanuel C. Udoh listening while the Obong of Akwa Ibom community in  Abuja,  Mkpisong Jackson Ndueso admonishing the  three-member Liaison Team  during the inauguration in Uyo recently.

The Akwa Ibom Community, Abuja (AKCOM), has ushered in a new era of institutional coordination with the inauguration of a three-member Liaison Team in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, replacing its long-standing one-person liaison structure in a move aimed at strengthening engagement between members in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and their home state.

The newly inaugurated team comprises His Lordship Bishop Anthony Udeh as Chairman and Liaison Officer, Mr. Emmanuel C. Udoh as Deputy Liaison Officer, and Mr. Peter Saturday as Secretary.

The appointments, approved by the President of the Akwa Ibom Community, Abuja, Mkpisong Barr. Gabriel Fan, were formally announced by the Vice President, Akparawa Solomon Umanah, during an inauguration ceremony attended by members of the Executive Council, Trustees, Benchers, Patrons, elders and other distinguished members of the community.

Speaking at the ceremony, Umanah described the new leadership structure as a strategic response to the expiration of the tenure of the immediate past Liaison Officer and a deliberate step towards strengthening the community's institutional presence in Akwa Ibom State.

According to him, the team-based arrangement will improve coordination of activities, facilitate effective communication between members in Abuja and those resident in Akwa Ibom State, and provide a stronger platform for advancing the interests of the community.

He charged the newly inaugurated officers to regard themselves as worthy ambassadors of the Akwa Ibom Community, Abuja, stressing that their responsibilities extend beyond administration to promoting unity, collaboration and stronger engagement with members and stakeholders.

"The Liaison Office serves as the bridge between the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja and our home state. You must discharge your responsibilities with dedication, integrity and commitment while remaining abreast of developments in the state to ensure effective representation," Umanah said.

He paid glowing tribute to the immediate past Liaison Officer, Akparawa Ekong Peter, for his dedication and selfless service, expressing confidence that the new team would consolidate on the achievements already recorded.

The Vice President also thanked members for their impressive turnout despite the short notice and urged the new officers to begin their assignment with unity, diligence and a strong sense of purpose.

He further called on members to continue praying for Governor Umo Eno, commending his developmental strides and expressing optimism that his administration would sustain the delivery of democratic dividends to the people of Akwa Ibom State.

The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of letters of appointment to the new officers by the Vice President, followed by their formal inauguration conducted by the Obong of the Community, Mkpisong Jackson Ndueso.

Responding on behalf of the appointees, Bishop Udeh, a retired Director of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and a Patron of the community, expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of AKCOM for the confidence reposed in the team.

He pledged unwavering commitment to the assignment and assured members that the Liaison Team would work diligently to justify the trust placed in them.

"We sincerely appreciate the vision of the administration of President Gabriel Fan for considering us worthy of this responsibility. We promise to serve faithfully and justify the confidence reposed in us as worthy ambassadors of the Akwa Ibom Community, Abuja," he said.

Bishop Udeh appealed to members to ensure timely dissemination of information to the Liaison Office to facilitate effective planning, coordination and execution of its responsibilities.

"Our doors will remain open to every member of the community. We shall work collectively to promote unity, strengthen communication and advance the interests of our people in line with the vision of the present administration," he added.

In separate goodwill messages, Mkpisong Jackson Ndueso, Senior Elder Engr. Richard Okposin, and Elder Tommy Udoime commended President Gabriel Fan for what they described as a visionary decision that reflects inclusive leadership and institutional growth.

They noted that the newly appointed officers had earned the confidence of the community through years of dedicated service, integrity and commitment, expressing confidence in their ability to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

The leaders reminded the appointees that the Liaison Office is one of sacrifice, accountability and selfless service, urging them to remain humble, accessible and committed to the welfare of members.

In his handover remarks, the outgoing Liaison Officer, Akparawa Ekong Peter, congratulated the new team and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the community.

He described the Liaison Office as a vital bridge between the Akwa Ibom State Government and the Akwa Ibom Community in Abuja and called on members to continue supporting the office in the discharge of its responsibilities.

The inauguration is widely regarded as a significant milestone in the evolution of the Akwa Ibom Community, Abuja, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening institutional structures, promoting unity among members and enhancing collaboration with stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State.

Members at the ceremony expressed optimism that the transition from a single Liaison Officer to a three-member Liaison Team would improve coordination, broaden participation and ensure greater continuity in the administration of the community's affairs.

NEWS EDITORIAL: OKPEBHOLO’S CRUSADE AGAINST CULTISM — EDO FINALLY BREATHES AGAIN

NEWS EDITORIAL: OKPEBHOLO’S CRUSADE AGAINST CULTISM — EDO FINALLY BREATHES AGAIN 

By Festus Alenkhe

For too long, Edo State carried the burden of shame. Communities that were once known for peace and hospitality became theatres of violence. Cultism entrenched itself as a parallel authority, trading in bloodshed, extortion, and fear. Our youths were lost to it, our mothers were left to mourn, and the future of the state was held hostage.

Today, however, there is cause for cautious optimism. There is cause to acknowledge that governance has returned to its primary duty: the protection of lives and property.

Under *Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo*, the fight against cultism has moved beyond rhetoric to measurable action. And the results are becoming evident on our streets: *peace and harmony are gradually returning to Edo.*

Political Will, Decisive Action

What made the difference? Political will.  

This administration drew a clear red line and told cultists in plain terms that the era of impunity was over. The Governor issued a direct mandate to security agencies: dismantle the networks, arrest the sponsors, and restore public order. No sacred cows. No compromises.

The renewed synergy between the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, local vigilante groups, and traditional institutions has produced tangible outcomes — arrests, prosecutions, and the disruption of cult cells that once operated openly. For the first time in years, cult leaders are being forced to look over their shoulders.

The Streets Are Speaking

Visit Benin City this evening. Go to Ekpoma, Auchi, and Uromi. The climate of fear that once gripped our people is lifting.  

Students now attend evening classes without dread. Traders stay later in the markets. Social events and nightlife are slowly bouncing back.

When a mother can send her child for lessons without anxiety, that is governance. When a business owner can close shop at 9pm without fear of attack, that is progress.

Beyond Guns: Providing Alternatives for Youths

The administration also recognizes that cultism cannot be defeated by force alone. As part of a broader strategy, the Okpebholo government is rolling out skills acquisition programmes, sports development initiatives, and youth empowerment schemes.  

Idle hands remain the devil’s workshop. By providing jobs, training, and hope, the government is drying up the recruitment base that cult groups have long exploited.

Our Collective Responsibility

We must not become complacent. Cultism is a hydra-headed problem that thrives on silence, political patronage, and community complicity.

Our appeal to Edo people is therefore straightforward: cooperate with security agencies, expose cultists in your communities, and refuse to shield criminals.  

Parents must monitor their children. Traditional rulers must not harbor offenders in the name of tradition.

To the Governor, we say: sustain the momentum. Continue to fund the security architecture, complete the youth empowerment programmes, and ensure that this peace is permanent, not seasonal.

Conclusion

Edo State is not yet an Eldorado. But we are on the move. Under Senator Monday Okpebholo, we are trading a culture of fear for a culture of peace.

For that, Edo people say thank you. And for the sake of our children and generations to come, we say: *do not relent.

A BOUNTIFUL BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO THE ENGINE ROOM OF EDO STATE GOVERNMENT

A BOUNTIFUL BIRTHDAY TRIBUTE TO THE ENGINE ROOM OF EDO STATE GOVERNMENT

From: Razak Zekeri, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Public Affairs 

To: Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., Secretary to the Edo State Government

On this 6th of August, we celebrate not just a birthday, but a man whose vision, diligence and quiet strength power the heart of governance in Edo State.

Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., the Secretary to the State Government, is widely acknowledged as the “engine room” of the Monday Okpebholo-led administration. As the very first appointee into the executive council in November 2024, he set the tone for a government built on competence, discipline and service.

Born at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, UBTH, and proudly from Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area, the SSG’s journey reflects a life dedicated to learning and nation-building.  

He earned his LL.B with Second Class Upper Honours from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 2008, proceeded to the Nigerian Law School for his B.L. in 2009, and later bagged an LL.M in Telecommunications Law from ABU in 2017.  

A Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria and a Notary Public since June 2022, his legal pedigree is both deep and distinguished.

Before answering the call to serve Edo, he spent over a decade shaping policy at the National Assembly. His expertise in legislative drafting, parliamentary procedure and constitutional reform made him a sought-after technocrat. In 2019, he consulted for the House of Representatives on the review of the 1999 Constitution, with a focus on gender equity, human rights and institutional reforms.

Behind the scenes, he was also a key strategist in Governor Okpebholo’s campaign, and today he coordinates the machinery of government. As SSG, he oversees the seamless operation of Ministries, Departments and Agencies to ensure that policies translate into real impact for our people.

Beyond administration, Barr. Ikhilor has become a strong voice for the administration, articulating government positions on national platforms like Channels TV and TVC, especially on fiscal reforms and governance.

A devout Muslim, his appointment was warmly received across faith lines. In March 2026, he hosted an Iftar in Benin City for officials, a gesture that underscored his commitment to unity, religious harmony and social cohesion. He is respected as a unifier who rises above politics, focused instead on results.

Those who work closely with him describe a man of focus. “He creates time daily to treat official files without distraction. The claims that he is unavailable are simply untrue,” a source close to the office affirmed.

In the words of Comrade Razak Sedenu, Convener of Save Nigeria Group, “Umar Ikhilor is the best SSG Edo has had in 20 years. People of goodwill stand with him.”

On your birthday, Sir,

May this new year bring you increased wisdom, sound health, divine protection and greater capacity to serve.  

May your work continue to yield bountiful fruits for Edo people, and may your life be blessed with peace, honour and long life in vitality.

From all of us in the Office of Public Affairs, we celebrate you today and always.  

Happy Bountiful Birthday to the Engine of the Edo State Government.

Signed,

Razak Zekeri

Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Public Affairs

GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO LEADS APC CAMPAIGN IN OSUN, CALLS FOR UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT

 

GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO LEADS APC CAMPAIGN IN OSUN, CALLS FOR UNITY AND DEVELOPMENT

By Razak Zekeri
Senior Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Edo State on Public Affairs

Osun State stands at a defining moment in its history, a moment of redemption, renewal, and resurgence. Osun is the Land of Hope. Osun is the Macedonia State, and it must rise again and shine in development, progress, and dignity.

Since the creation of Osun State on the 27th of August, 1991, carved out of the old Oyo State, history has followed a particular pattern. For over three decades, an indigene of Osogbo, the state capital, has never had the opportunity to lead the state as Governor. 

Today, that narrative is about to change. Today, history is being made — not just for Osogbo, but for the entire state and for the future of progressive governance in Nigeria.

As part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and in alignment with the SHINE Agenda being driven in Edo State, we are here in Osun to lend our voice, our strength, and our conviction to a movement that puts the people first.

The hope of Osun lies in competence, in integrity, and in the capacity to build. The Macedonia State needs leaders who will prioritize road networks, modern institutions, quality education, healthcare, and job creation across all 30 Local 

Government Areas. The symbol that represents this new hope is “Ambo” — the incoming Governor whose name has become synonymous with strength, service, and sincerity.

Osun must rise and shine again.

This election is not about entertainment. It is not about dancing or drama. Infrastructural development cannot be achieved by dancing. What Osun needs at this time are builders, not performers. Osun needs a Governor who will wake up every day thinking about roads, hospitals, schools, markets, and industries not applause.

We don’t want a dancing Governor. We want a working Governor. 
We want a Governor who will make Osun great again.

To achieve this, I call on all members of the All Progressives Congress across the 30 Local Government Areas ,from Osogbo to Ife, from Ikire to Ilesa East and North, from Ede North and South to Iwo, Olorunda, Ayedade, and Gbongan , and to all party faithful in the 3,763 polling units across the 332 registered wards in the 3 Senatorial Districts: let us unite.

Let us unite behind the symbol of hope and strength: Ambo. 
Let us unite behind the APC, the party with the structure, the vision, and the national alignment to redeem the hope of Osun.

This is the time for Osun to align with the Federal Government. This alignment is critical if we are to attract more federal presence, more federal projects, and more federal investments to our great state. A state that works with the center will always have an advantage in infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities.

The people of Osun deserve better. They deserve roads that connect communities, institutions that produce results, and a government that delivers on its promises.

The Macedonia State must shine again. The Land of Hope must rise again. 

On election day, let us make the right choice. Let us vote for competence. Let us vote for capacity. Let us vote for Ambo. 
For the sake of our children, for the sake of our future, Osun must rise again!!

SHINE AGENDA ACROSS BORDERS: BRING EDO’S DEVELOPMENT HOME THROUGH GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP

SHINE AGENDA ACROSS BORDERS: BRING EDO’S DEVELOPMENT HOME THROUGH GLOBAL PARTNERSHIP

 By Festus Alenkhe

In an era where development is borderless, governance must also be borderless. It is in this context that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s “SHINE Agenda Across Borders” event in London deserves not just attention, but commendation and support.

This was not a ceremonial gathering. It was a strategic economic diplomacy mission  one that recognizes a fundamental reality: Edo State cannot develop in isolation.

We endorse this initiative because it is timely, practical, and rooted in data.

THE CASE FOR GOING ABROAD: FACTS AND FIGURES
Edo State has one of Nigeria’s largest diaspora populations. The UK alone hosts an estimated 250,000+ Edo people, with heavy concentrations in London, Manchester, and Birmingham. According to World Bank and CBN 2023 data, Nigeria received $20.1 billion in diaspora remittances. Edo consistently ranks among the top 5 states in remittance inflow.

Yet for decades, that inflow has gone largely into consumption school fees, rent, health and family support. Little has gone into productive investment because the bridge between policy at home and opportunity abroad was missing.

The UK also hosts thousands of Edo professionals: NHS consultants, university lecturers, engineers, fintech experts, and lawyers. The NMA UK Chapter estimates that over 2,000 doctors of Edo origin practice in the UK. Imagine if just 10% of that expertise is channeled into telemedicine, hospital partnerships, and training in Edo.

That is the gap SHINE Across Borders is designed to close.

*WHY SHINE MATTERS: BREAKING DOWN THE 5 PILLARS* 
The SHINE Agenda :Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Education: directly addresses Edo’s binding constraints.

Security: No development thrives in an atmosphere of fear. Edo recorded improved coordination between state security outfits and federal agencies in the last quarter. By assuring the diaspora and foreign investors that Edo is safe for business, the government is removing the first barrier to investment.

Health: Edo people spend an estimated $1 billion annually on medical tourism, per NBS and private hospital data. London has some of the world’s best hospitals and a large pool of Edo medical professionals. Partnerships for equipment donation, specialist exchange, and telemedicine can bring quality care to Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital, Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City, and our 18 LGAs without waiting decades.

Infrastructure: Edo is strategically located. We sit on the Lagos-Benin-Benin Republic corridor and have access to the Benin River Port project. The state needs $3.2 billion in infrastructure deficit funding according to AFDB estimates. UK firms in construction, renewable energy, and digital infrastructure have both capital and technical know-how. This engagement opens that door.

Natural Resources: Edo is blessed beyond oil. We have over 3 billion metric tonnes of limestone in Okpella, bitumen deposits in Ologbo, and 1.2 million hectares of arable land. Yet 80% of what we produce is exported raw. The Governor’s pitch in London is simple: Come and process in Edo. Create jobs in Edo. Export from Edo. That is how we move from poverty to prosperity.

Education: With over 60% of Edo’s population under age 35, our youth are our future. But unemployment remains high. Through scholarships, skills transfer, and twinning programs with UK institutions, SHINE seeks to equip our youths so they can compete globally without having to leave permanently. That is brain gain.

WHY LONDON, WHY NOW
London was chosen for three reasons. 
First, concentration of influence. UK policymakers, investors, and the Edo diaspora elite are all there. 
Second, credibility. Presenting SHINE in a global financial capital signals seriousness. 
Third, urgency. With the global economy shifting and Nigeria’s sub-nationals now competing directly for FDI, states that wait will be left behind. Edo has chosen not to wait.

ADDRESSING THE SKEPTICISM  
We understand the doubts. Past diaspora engagements yielded town hall photos but few factories. That is why this must be different.

For SHINE Across Borders to work, 3 things are suggested: 

1. Institutionalize it: Create a Diaspora Investment and Partnership Office in the Government House with a published dashboard. 

2. Incentivize it: Fast-track approvals, land allocation, and tax incentives for diaspora-led projects in agro-processing, health, and tech. 

3. Report on it: Quarterly updates to Edo people on MOUs signed, funds mobilized, and projects started.

Without these, SHINE risks becoming another acronym. With them, it becomes a movement.

CONCLUSION  
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s London outing is a bold statement: Edo is open, Edo is ready, and Edo is calling her sons and daughters home to build.

We support SHINE Agenda Across Borders because it shifts governance from rhetoric to relationships, from isolation to integration. It tells every Edo doctor in London, every engineer in Manchester, every business owner in Peckham: “Your state needs you, and there is now a plan for you to come and invest.”

The task ahead is execution. But the vision is right. The timing is right. And the platform is right.

Edo can shine. Let it shine, in Benin, in Auchi, in Uromi, and yes, even across borders in London.

Edo’s future will be built by all of us, together.