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Showing posts from April, 2026

Gov. Okpebholo Inspects Ikpoba Hill Flyover with Seun of Channels... Residents Hail Ongoing Works

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  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo carried out an inspection of the Ikpoba Hill Flyover at Ramat Park in Edo South alongside award-winning broadcast journalist, Seun Okinbaloye of Channels Television. The visit, which formed part of ongoing efforts to showcase key infrastructure projects in Edo State, featured a walk-through the construction site and surrounding areas. During the inspection, the visit drew significant public attention. Market women, commuters, and residents around Ramat Park openly expressed their excitement, chanting slogans such as “Akpakomiza,” “Akpako Rescue,” and “the best governor,” in apparent appreciation of the project and the administration’s efforts. The presence of a prominent national media figure highlights a strategic approach by the government to provide visibility for ongoing developmental initiatives, while allowing the project’s progress and public reaction to speak for itself. The Ikpoba Hill Flyover, which is over 90 percent complet...

When A Dam Is More Than A Project -- By Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele, PhD

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  The Jattu Dam in Etsako West local government area of Edo State might have been viewed by many, as just another federal water scheme. But under the very watchful eyes of Governor Monday Okpebholo, this is one water project with a sharper meaning—one that speaks directly to the realities of access, productivity, and sustainability in our state.  At its nucleus, the dam is not merely about storing water; it is about reshaping livelihoods and anchoring a more resilient future for Edo North senatorial and even beyond. The dam is one that is strategically positioned to serve a cluster of communities that have long contended with unreliable water supply. For many residents, access to potable water is still defined by boreholes, seasonal streams, and improvised storage systems. The implications go beyond inconvenience. Globally, water scarcity is a major hindrance to quality of life as it affects health outcomes, household spending, and the overall quality of life. In that context,...

Edo Government Rescue Three Trafficked Edo Indigenes from Burkina Faso

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The Edo State Government, through its Migration Agency, has rescued three trafficked Nigerians from Burkina Faso, reaffirming its commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens and tackling human trafficking. The victims, two women and a man, were received at the Benin Airport by the Director General of the agency, Lucky Agazuma, who said the successful rescue underscores the proactive leadership and humanitarian focus of Governor Monday Okpebholo. One of the female victims, identified as Precious, reportedly became visually impaired during her ordeal in Burkina Faso, while another, Peace, suffered physical assault. The male victim, Evans Enwata, was also rescued after enduring difficult conditions. Addressing journalists, Agazuma disclosed that the Okpebholo-led administration has put in place strong mechanisms not only to rescue victims but also to ensure their full rehabilitation and reintegration into society. He emphasized that Governor Okpebholo has consistently demonstrated compas...

Gov. Okpebholo Reaffirms Federal Partnership to Boost Water Infrastructure, Strengthen Security in Edo

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  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed Edo State’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate water infrastructure, improve security around critical assets, and deliver tangible benefits to residents. The Governor made this known at the Government House in Benin City while receiving the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who led a delegation from the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) on a courtesy visit. Responding to the minister’s remarks, Okpebholo stressed that federal-state partnership remains crucial to sustainable development, particularly in the water sector.  He disclosed that he had personally visited some of the facilities under the authority and expressed concern over reported cases of vandalism and wastage of public resources. According to him, “A lot of resources are being wasted. This is not acceptable. You cannot invest so much and have it...

Hearing Disorder: UBTH Consultant Warns Against Using Objects to Clean the Ear to Prevent Ear damage

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  A Consultant, Ear, Nose throat, Head and Neck Surgeon with the University of Benin Teaching Hospital,  Dr. Emmanuel Okoeguale has warned against using objects to clean the ear to prevent hearing problems. The Consultant who gave the warning during a Seminar organized by the Institute of Child Health, University of Benin, UNIBEN/ University of Benin Teaching Hospital UBTH, in Benin City, said the ear is the road to the heart and if damaged it can trigger hearing disorder  "The ear is very important for speech development, hearing ability and social interaction. The common hearing disorder starts with pain. While noting that hearing lose should be identified early in life in children, Dr. Okoeguale disclosed that the ear clean itself and does not need the putting of objects inside the ear. "Stop using objects to clean your ears. Say No to using cotton buds and keys. Avoid foreign body in the ear," he added. He advised that children should be taken to the hospital when th...

Gov. Monday Okpebholo is Building Edo of Our Dream with Business Friendly Environment for Investors--Afegbua

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo is Building a  business friendly environment for investors to thrive in the state. The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua who disclosed this during a press conference in Benin City  said the state government is gradually building Edo of our dream and he called on investors to come and invest in the state because of the friendly business environment. Prince Afegbua said the Okpebholo led administration has signed an agreement with a Chinese firm for the production of a 10 million metric tone of cement in the Owan axis of Edo State. "By the middle of next month, the first step towards realizing the dream of production of 10 million metric tone of cement will commence. We are hoping that when it's completed, even starting it alone will generate employment and help tackle social vices. The Commissioner said the State has boosted its internally generated revenue (IGR) to about N9.5, to N10 billion naira mont...

APC Governors Rally Support for Oyebanji in Ekiti 2026 Governorship Contest -- By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele PhD

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   A high-level delegation of governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) converged on Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday for the official flag-off of the 2026 Ekiti governorship campaign, urging a calm, issue-driven race anchored on continuity and development. The political atmosphere featured Governors Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Ahmed Usman Ododo (Kogi), Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Uba Sani (Kaduna), who is Chairman of the Campaign Council, Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa (Ondo). The gathering also featured former Ekiti governors Ayodele Fayose, Segun Oni, Niyi Adebayo, and Kayode Fayemi. Before the campaign rally, the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe Aladesanmi III, where they received royal blessings and restated commitments to a peaceful electoral season. Speaking on behalf of the APC Governors’ Forum, Governor Hope Uzodinma described their presence as a show of solidarity within the perfor...

Gov. Okpebholo Approves Appointment of Dr. Innocent Ehiaguina Bello as the Managing Director of EdoGIS...Reform in Land Administration

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  Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the appointment of Dr. Innocent Ehiaguina Bello as the Managing Director of the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS). This was disclosed in a Government announcement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq in Benin City. Dr. Bello is a distinguished geospatial scientist, administrator, and academic with extensive experience in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Remote Sensing, Spatial Data Infrastructure and Land Administration. He currently serves as Assistant Director and Head of Spatial Data Infrastructure Division at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA), Abuja, and is the National President of the Nigerian Cartographic Association.  His vast experience in geospatial intelligence, cadastral systems and digital land governance positions him as a key driver of the State’s land administration reforms. He is widely published, with doz...

Security Operatives Raid Kidnappers’ Hideout in Edo Forest, Arrest Two Suspects

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  A combined team of the Edo State Special Security Squad, the Edo State Security Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force has raided a suspected kidnappers’ hideout deep within the forest of Amah community in Etsako West Local Government Area, arresting two suspects in a renewed crackdown on criminal activities across the state. The operation, led by the Principal Security Officer, Saturday Okoh, began with the assembly of operatives at Eko-Waya community in Esan Central Local Government Area. The security agents successfully stormed the hideout, leading to the arrest of two individuals suspected to be linked to a notorious kidnapping syndicate operating within the axis. Addressing journalists shortly after the raid, the spokesperson for the Special Security Squad, Eribo Enwata, disclosed that the operation was carried out following credible intelligence reports. “We received a tip-off that a suspected mastermind of kidnapping in this area, identified simply as Best, has been operating...

Gov Okpebholo Leads APC Delegation on Condolence Visit to Okao of Ologbo

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  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo led a high-powered delegation of government officials and party leaders on a condolence visit to the Okao of Ologbo, Chief Emmanuel Iyase, following the passing of his wife, Mrs. Mandaline Iyase. The visit, which drew prominent figures from the state’s political leadership, was marked by solemn reflections and words of comfort for the grieving family. Speaking during the visit, Governor Okpebholo said he came alongside key stakeholders, including the local government chairman and leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to sympathize with Chief Iyase over the painful loss. The governor said, “I’m here with my local government chairman and other party leaders as a group to commiserate with you over the death of your wife. It is painful, but you have to bear it. No matter how much you cry, she will never come back. And I believe God will give you the heart to bear it,”  He encouraged the bereaved to remain strong and focus on...

Only a City Boy Can Organize, Brand a City — Gov. Okpebholo ...Hosts Movement, Backs Tinubu’s Second Term

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  The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday delivered a strong endorsement of structured, grassroots-driven leadership, declaring that “only a city boy can truly build and brand a city,” The governor made this known when he received in audience, the leadership of the City Boy Movement at the Government House in Benin City.  The governor used the occasion to underscore Edo State’s commitment to youth-focused political mobilisation and to reaffirm his backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid. The delegation was led by its Grand Patron, Seyi Tinubu, alongside key officials including the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, and the Director-General of the movement, Francis Oluwatosin Shola. Welcoming the group, Okpebholo praised their decision to launch their South-South regional tour in Edo State, describing it as a clear recognition of the state’s growing relevance in national political engagement. He said, “You have ...

Umar Musa Ikhilor And the False Narrative to Pull Him Down -- By Eubaldus Enahoro

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The Secretary to Edo State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq. has emerged as a pivotal figure in the state’s administration since his appointment by Governor Monday Okpebholo on November 12, 2024. Interestingly, that may be why his tenure has attracted the wrought of some mischief makers who are apparently jealous of his fast rising profile. However, he has continued to display a blend of administrative competence, inclusive governance, and community-focused initiatives  Prior to assuming office as SSG, he accumulated over eleven years of experience in legislative drafting, parliamentary administration, and governance processes, building a reputation as a meticulous and strategic administrator. Ikhilor’s appointment was historically significant, as he became the first Muslim to occupy the SSG position in Edo State since the return to democracy in 1999 and  Civil society and Muslim groups hailed the appointment as a notable step toward inclusivity in state governance....

GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO FELICITATES WITH ARCHBISHOP AUGUSTINE AKUBEZE...SAYS HIS SPIRITUAL GUIDANCE SHAPED HIS LEADERSHIP QUALITIES, AT 20TH EPISCOPAL ANNIVERSARY

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  Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has congratulated the Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City, Most Rev. Dr. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, on the occasion of his 20th Episcopal Anniversary on April 22, 2026. Governor Okpebholo described the milestone as a testament to Archbishop Akubeze’s enduring commitment to faith, service, and moral leadership. He noted that since his episcopal consecration in 2006, the Archbishop has demonstrated consistency in pastoral responsibility, institutional growth, and community engagement. The Governor further acknowledged Archbishop Akubeze’s leadership as pioneer Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Uromi and his subsequent appointment as Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City in 2011, roles in which he has continued to provide spiritual guidance and stability. According to the Governor, the Archbishop’s episcopal motto, “Ut Testimonium Perhibeam Veritati” — “to bear witness to the truth” — reflects a ministry defined by integrit...

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO CELEBRATES MOTHERS, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO WOMEN-CENTERED GOVERNANCE

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  Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has extended warm greetings to mothers of the Catholic denomination on the occasion of Mother’s Day, recognising their enduring role as the backbone of families and communities. The Governor paid tribute to women in all expressions of motherhood — including biological, adoptive, foster, and caregiving roles — noting that their sacrifices continue to shape society in profound ways. He described mothers as central to the growth and stability of the state, acknowledging their quiet resilience, dedication, and the critical role they play in raising future generations. Reflecting on his administration’s development priorities, Governor Okpebholo stated that the SHINE Agenda — covering Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education — is designed to improve the quality of life for women and families across the state. “Our ongoing investments in healthcare, security, and education are aimed at creating safer commun...

Okpebholo is Poised to develop Edo...As the SSG is Building Bridges in Governance -- Cleric

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The Resident Pastor of Bible Alive Miracle Ministry, BAMM Pastor Eubaldus Enahoro has urged Edo people to be patient and pray for Edo government because Senator Monday Okpebholo is developing the state and the Secretary to the State Government Musa Umar Ikhilor Esq. is building bridges in governance The Cleric who made the  appeal during the dedication of a  building for the teens of the church in Benin city at the weekend disclosed that from reports of the  developmental strides across the state,  the Edo State Government is on track delivering dividends of democracy to Edo People with the effective support of the SSG According to him, the Governor and the SSG,  a renowned administrator,   should not be  stampeded by unnecessary criticisms from any quarters. "The Governor Monday Okpebholo led Government is on track delivering  dividends of democracy and the people will not be disappointed when all the projects going on simultaneously across ...

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO GRANTS FULL SCHOLARSHIPS TO CHILDREN OF LATE BRIGADIER GENERAL BRAIMAH

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  Edo State Government has approved full educational scholarships for the three children of the late Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah, an indigene of the state who died in active service to the nation. The approval, granted by Governor Monday Okpebholo, ensures that the children’s education will be fully funded from their current levels through to university. The decision underscores the administration’s commitment to honouring the sacrifice of fallen military personnel and supporting the families they leave behind. The beneficiaries are Farida Hussain-Braimah, 18, a 100-level Software Engineering student at Nile University, Abuja; Amir Hussain-Braimah, 16, currently in SS3 at Olumawu Senior School, Abuja; and Yasmeen Hussain-Braimah, 12, a JSS2 pupil at Olumawu Junior Secondary School, Abuja. Governor Okpebholo, while speaking on the gesture, described it as both a moral obligation and a demonstration of responsible governance. He noted that Brigadier General Braimah’s death r...

An Earthquake Which Redefines Edo Central Political Landscape - By Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele PhD

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  Edo Central’s political terrain shifted decisively this Tuesday as former Senator Clifford Ordia and ex-House of Representatives member Joseph Edionwele formally exited the very depleted Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a development that immediately reconfigured alliances across Esanland and beyond. The announcement, made at a densely packed political gathering at Eguare Primary School in Irrua, the heartbeat of Esan politics, unfolded against a charged atmosphere of chants, solidarity songs, and repeated declarations that “Edo is shining". This was the slogan that echoed through the venue as APC stalwarts and supporters waved party colours and danced in procession from Usugbenu Junction to the event ground. What began as a routine political reception for decampees quickly evolved into a symbolic realignment of influence in Edo Central, with heavyweight political figures openly declaring support for Governor Monday Okpebholo and his adm...

2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day: Edo NAWOJ To Reach School Girls With Lebarty Community Health Foundation's Sanitary Pad Donation

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  In commemoration of the 2026 World Menstrual Hygiene Day, the Lebarty Community Health Foundation has donated cartons of assorted sanitary pads to the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ). The gesture forms part of the Foundation’s corporate social responsibility and supports NAWOJ’s plan to mark the day with school outreaches to educate girls on menstrual hygiene. The items were presented on behalf of the Medical Director of the Foundation, Dr. & Pharm. Nosa Aigbe Lebarty, by a delegation led by the Vice President of Lebarty Community Health Foundation, Mrs. Orion Lebarty Olaye, and the Communication Director, Pst. Mrs. Ovis Enahoro. Receiving the donation on behalf of the association, the Chairperson of Edo NAWOJ, Comrade Habiba Aniekan Sam,  alongside with her Vice, Comrade Oyemwense  Odeh,  expressed deep appreciation for the Foundation’s consistent support to the association over the years.  She noted that the gest...

Edo PDP Suffers Setback as Senator Ordia, Hon. Joe Edionwele, Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen Defect to APC in Edo Central Preaching Esan Agenda is Development

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The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP  suffered a major political calamity as Senator Clifford Ordia, Hon  Joe Edionwele and Mrs. Philomena Ihenyen and their  supporters   dumped the party in Esan Central  The mammoth crowd of politicians from other Parties, including the Labour Party, who decamped at the Eguare Public field, Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area were received by APC leaders in the state led by the Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo  According to Senator Ordia, "it is time for all Esan sons and daughters to support their own. Today, we have come with all sense of humility to join our brother in the struggle of making sure that Edo State has the required development. This is a clear call for all Esan people and all our brothers in the North and the South of Edo State that the time has come for us to support what is good." In his words, "Is the government not working? What are we supposed to do? We are going to join him and we have joine...

Eedris Abdulkareem Score Gov Okpebholo High On Infrastructural Dev. ... Promises To Speak on Edo State Dev Through His Music

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   The Nigerian singer, rapper and the Jagajaga crooner Eedris Turayo Abdulkareem Ajenifuja popularly known professionally as Eedris Abdulkareem, commended  Governor Monday Okpebholo on his developmental stride across the State scoring his administration high on infrastructural development. The Commissioner for Information and communication Prince Kasim Afegbua took the music star round some legacy projects of the governor Monday Okpebholo led administration. The projects visited include Sepele road flyover at Adesuwa junction, road construction at NEPA junction Sapele road, Ramat Park Flyover, road projects at Temboga amongst others. AbdulKareem was in Edo Central Senatorial District over the weekend with Governor Monday Okpebholo to inspect projects before embarking on the inspection tour of projects in Edo South Senatorial District. The Nigerian singer and rapper said he came into the State from Abia State where he had spent two months to shoot a musical documentary fo...

President Tinubu Believes in Nigeria’s Future,... Says Okpebholo, as Edo Governor Hands Over Rebuilt Ekpoma Shops, Rewards Fire Victims

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a man that believes in the future of Nigeria, as he demonstrated his administration’s commitment to development by handing over rebuilt shops destroyed in the January fire incident in Ekpoma and rewarding affected victims. The governor made the remark in Ekpoma and Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, during the inauguration of ward and local government coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and a defection rally, where he highlighted the impact of the Federal Government’s economic reforms. The event held at Eguare Public field in Irrua, witnessed the official defection by major opposition political party into the All Progressive Congress (APC). Notable politicians who led the groups included Sen Clifford Ordia, Hon. Joe Edionwele, Chief Clifford aka Cliff Sandra,Mrs Ihenyen all of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) among others in the Labor Party(LP)  According to Okpebholo, the remov...