https://www.edostate.gov.ng/fresh-news/

Edo Communications Office - ECO, Government House, Auchi (2025)

09/11/2024

Valedictory lunch with Governor Godwin Obaseki by party faithful, family members, State Exco, government functionaries, others.

Details later...

09/11/2024

Obaseki Lauds State Security Council for Support, Urges Cooperation with Successive Administration
..admonishes incoming government to prioritize security over politics

Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has expressed appreciation to members of the Edo State Security Council, commending the Council for providing the State with adequate security and necessary surveillance.

The Governor noted that their collaborative efforts with the government and citizens of the State have gone a long way in improving security situation in the State.

Obaseki made this known on Friday November 8, 2024, at the valedictory Security Council Meeting by his administration, held at the State Government House, with representatives from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Prisons Service, Immigration Service, Department of State Services (DSS), Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Federal Fire Service, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and other relevant security agencies.

According to the Governor, “We are blessed to have worked with these agencies who by adopting the right technology were able to provide a security blanket over Edo State, such that today, we have a Security Information Management System second to none in this country.

“It is one thing to have security but what is also important is the perception of security. I would say that the giant strides made by my administration in the last few years speak to the fact that the capacity to deal with security issues in Nigeria exists; the people to do the job exist; it is all about working with them and supporting them to perform their duties. We are hoping that the successive administration will continue to work with them.

Obaseki added: “The only thing I can do is to thank you, because we cannot reward you enough. When I look back, I want to say thank you for all you did, because I am leaving Edo much better security-wise. And my advice to the incoming administration is to take security seriously.

"Do not prioritize politics over security, and the citizens too must continue to demand for a secure environment, because we have shown over the last 8 years that it is possible; shown that we have men and women who have the capacity and training to offer security services to the people.

“As I step out of office, I know my success has been largely due to the support I received from you to ensure that we have a safe and secure State. Please keep it up. Continue with the structures we have put on ground. Keep that cooperation that made you very effective, so we can continue to provide security to our people.”

07/11/2024

Obaseki Commissions Newly Rebuilt, Expanded 250-Bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital
..says administration has refurbished 60 PHCs in the state
..also commissions Creche and Food Court at secretariat complex

Nosakhare Agbonigiarhuoyi

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Wednesday, commissioned the Newly Rebuilt and Expanded 250-Bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital, which will serve as a health hub and provide healthcare services across various strata of the health ecosystem in the State. The Governor also commissioned the Creche and Food Court situated at the Edo State Civil Service Secretariat complex, in Benin City.

In his remarks, during the commissioning of the remodeled hospital, Obaseki stated that healthcare goes beyond having hospitals and facilities but also includes human capital development.

According to the Governor, “We developed a health improvement plan for Edo during Covid-19 with the goal of becoming a healthcare hub. Covid-19 helped us mobilize over 5,000 doctors to help us respond to the pandemic, but what was missing was a plan to tie our health facilities together.”

“Healthcare is not just about hospitals or facilities; it is also about human capital, to help people. It is expensive, but we must find a way to finance it. We redesigned our healthcare program through our health improvement scheme.

“The primary healthcare system is the first contact with our citizens, and we set up the Primary Healthcare Agency. Today, we have the most viable primary healthcare system in Nigeria. We have refurbished 60 primary healthcare centers, and our goal is to ensure that each ward in the state has one.”

He added: “This is not just about infrastructure; it is about sharing human values of compassion, care, and hope; that is what this facility is all about."

On his part, the former President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who officially commissioned the hospital, commended the Governor for the project, describing him as a builder and reformer.

Obasanjo said: "I want to thank you for remembering my late wife, Stella Obasanjo. I was here before, and coming here now, what I see is wonderful. You are not only a builder but also a reformer who has positively impacted the lives of your people.

“When this hospital was established 17 years ago, it was to keep the memory of my late wife. By honoring her, you are also honoring me.”

Also speaking at the event was the former Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, who described the Governor as a visionary leader. According to her, "The newly rebuilt Stella Obasanjo Hospital is a testament to the power of a visionary leader and a commitment to building a strong, healthy state and nation."

“It will serve as a reference center, bridging the gap between primary healthcare and specialized healthcare, and ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their background, will receive the care they need."

In the same vein, during the commissioning of the Creche and Food Court at the Edo State Civil Service Secretariat complex, Obaseki observed that the Creche and Food Court will ensure increased and enhanced productivity of the State's workforce.

He said: "The Creche and the Food Court are very dear to us. It is about people having the rest of mind, particularly our women; because there's so much pressure on them. They will have to take care of the home and children before coming to work. So it is important that if you want to improve the efficiency and commitment of your workforce, you need to take care of them.

"This is not a luxury. It is almost a necessity now for our workforce. I hope that the managers of the civil service will make sure that competent people are hired; knowledgeable people who understand how to give care to children are the ones who are put here to manage this facility, so that the children can be safe, secure and healthy."

"In terms of the Food Court, if you close late from work or not, you need to eat. You don't have to go out to buy what you need. You can do it here. That is why the food court is important. All these will increase and enhance the productivity of our workforce."

The former First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan, who commissioned the Creche and Food Court, commended the Governor for his thoughtfulness towards women in the Service and the State at large.

"The Creche and Food Court I am officially commissioning today are a clear demonstration of this administration's determination to provide infrastructural development that have direct impact and benefit to the people of Edo State.

"Your Excellency, your have talked so much about the well-being of women, nursing mothers, who while at work, will need care givers to look after their kids and give them attention. The Creche will further provide a safe nurturing environment for those children, particularly those whose parents are in the public service of Edo State," she said.

Also present at the occasion were: Edo State First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal; First Executive Governor of Edo State, Chief John Odigie Oyegun; Former Governor of Edo State, Chief Lucky Igbinedion; Former First Lady of Cross River State, Obioma Imoke; Members of Edo Executive Council, top government officials, amongst others.

07/11/2024

Obaseki Commissions Benin City Mall, ShopRite, Says Administration Has a Good Story to Tell
..Edo people will miss you, Tambuwal says

Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has asserted that his administration has a good story to tell, emphasizing that the achievements so far attained reflect a collective effort that should be celebrated as part of a successful tenure.

The Governor thanked the people for the opportunity to serve, acknowledging that despite the challenges faced by his administration due to the hostile political landscape, alongside many distractions, his administration still maintained focus on its objectives, resulting in the numerous accomplishments being celebrated.

He made this known during the Commissioning of the Benin City Mall and the ShopRite box, on Tuesday November 5, 2024.

The Governor underscored the importance of Edo State as a cultural hub in Nigeria, deserving of a high-quality retail center that aligns with his vision of positioning the state as a premier tourism destination.

He noted that the new Mall, strategically situated within the Benin City cultural district, is expected to create jobs, drive economic growth, and highlight Edo’s rich cultural heritage.

Reflecting on the journey so far, the Governor expressed gratitude to all those who supported the projects undertaken by his administration, stating that none of the accomplishments would have been possible without their contributions.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to serve. Edo is know for economic development and growth. All we just need is the commitment and dedication of leadership.

"The political environment in which we operated was not the most conducive; there were a lot of distractions, but because of the people I have to work with, we kept our eyes on the ball. This is not the first time the idea of building a mall has been raised but this is the first time it has worked.

"Thank God we were not distracted by the noise. It has not been easy but we thank God that at the end of the day, we have a good story to tell.

"I hope those coming after me note that Edo has a culture of business, and that there are opportunities to open more of these malls across the State. This should not be the last. This should serve as an inspiration for more investors to come in and take advantage of opportunities in Edo."

Also speaking during the commissioning, the former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, commended Governor Obaseki for the landmark project, remarking that the people-friendly Governor will be greatly missed by the people of Edo State when he leaves office.

According to him, "I want to congratulate Governor Obaseki and his team. Your contribution to the development of this country can never be wished away. Everyone can attest to your capacity, intellectual prowess and integrity.

"I am particularly impressed that there is an innovation attached to this mall, which you can hardly find anywhere else. This is the first time you find in a mall an e-library. The only mall in the country that has a library where parents can bring their children to have a library experience while they shop.

"This is highly commendable. You have done well for the people of Edo State. The people of Edo State would definitely miss you in no distant time.

"Now that you have completed serving 8 years as Governor of Edo State, rest assured, Nigeria is waiting for you. From what you have done in education, healthcare, human capacity development, agriculture, infrastructure, you have definitely left behind indelible marks in the history of the State and Edo people will not forget you for time immemorial."

Highlight of the event was the official commissioning of the Mall and the ShopRite box, followed by a tour of various outlets within the complex.

06/11/2024

Obaseki Commissions World-Class Education Hub, Benin Technical College

…names Education Hub after Tayo Akpata

…commissions newly reconstructed 12km Benin Technical College Road

By Godspower Eguasa

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commissioned the Edo State Education Hub, to synergize all education-related agencies in the State, and the Benin Technical College, remodelled to develop skills and innovative learning among young ones in the State.

The Governor also commissioned the 12km Benin Technical College Road to improve road network and boost business activities within the Ugbowo axis of the State.

Speaking at the commissioning which held on Tuesday November 5, 2024, Obaseki noted that the achievement attained in the education sector was spurred by his passion and commitment to bring hope to young citizens and residents of the State, positioning them on the path to sustainable growth and development.

While commissioning the Benin Technical College, Obaseki noted: "This project, as you have heard, is something that I had to do, because when I contested to become Governor of Edo State in 2016, we were facing an existential threat in Edo. Our children did not want to go to school. At some point, they said school was scam. People invaded our communities, offering them all sorts of tales and taking them out of this country.

"The rate of human trafficking and irregular migration was scary for me. Over 30,000 young Edo boys and girls were in Libya trying to cross. You can imagine how many died on their way there.

“When I resumed office on November 12th in 2016; it was a Saturday, I believe. On Monday morning, I woke up and I went to Edo State Civil Service Secretariat, Palm House to be specific, to see the condition of the civil service; it was depressing. The next day, I headed for this school to come and see things for myself. Because if I was going to create 200,000 jobs and more, then, where are the institutions that will train these people so that they can get these jobs? This was one of them.

“I made a commitment that day, that restoring the school and renovating it will be my first priority. So this afternoon, I am so glad that a week to my exit in office, I can come here and see a rebuilt Technical College.”

Speaking at the commissioning of the Education Hub at Iyaro, Benin City, Obaseki further highlighted the gains of his administration in the education sector.

According to the Governor, “Today we are here to commission the Edo State Education Hub. This facility is like a summary of what we have done in education in Edo. We came and met education in disarray but today we are leaving an organized education sector."

Obaseki who named the Education Hub after renowned educationist and former Commissioner for Education in the old Midwest Region, Chief Tayo Akpata, stated that the Hub would now house the Ministry of Education, Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability, Directorate of Higher Education, the State Examination Board, the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Library Board, the Board for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, Primary Health Care Facility, and other education arms and directorates, assuring residents of his continuous contribution to the growth of the State's education sector even after his administration.

“I am leaving as Governor of Edo State but I am not leaving you in Edo State. Fortunately, because of the work we have done over the years, I have been appointed as one of Africa's Education Champions. So in that capacity, I will continue to work with you to foster and enhance education in Edo State," Obaseki said.

The Benin Technical College was officially commissioned by the Executive Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Peter Ndubuisi Mba, while the Education Hub was commissioned by the former Governor of Sokoto State, Sen. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

The Governor also commissioned the Benin Technical College Road which was reconstructed to ease traffic and boost business activities around the Ugbowo axis of the State.

06/11/2024

Obaseki Commissions Post-Production Center, Edonimose Residence, for Creatives, Artistes

…urges youths to ensure sustainability of creative projects pioneered by administration

Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi

In a bid to unlock the creative potential of youths in the State alongside the restoration of the State’s cultural heritage, Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has commissioned the Victor Uwaifo Hub Post Production Center and the Edonimose Residence, for creatives.

Speaking at the commissioning on Monday November 4, 2024, Obaseki noted that his administration has committed substantial investments and financial support to arts, culture, and the creative industry, aimed at driving economic growth, noting that both facilities are envisioned to bring together artists, filmmakers, researchers, curators, and creatives, thereby inspiring collaboration, fostering innovation, and celebrating Edo's rich cultural heritage.

He stated that the facilities underscore his administration’s dedication to empowering the creative industry and establishing Edo State as a center for film excellence and cultural exchange.

He further observed that the Post-Production Center would complement the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and Soundstage, thereby completing the film production cycle and strengthening the Edo Film Project which has produced over 80 films, attracted investments to the state and benefited numerous families.

He also revealed that the Edonimose Residence which combines culture with comfort is strategically located in a prime area, standing as the first-of-its-kind in the region, providing a unique space for cultural exchange, learning, and personal growth.

According to him, the innovative residence would foster a supportive community that encourages experimentation and creativity, making it a hub for innovation in the arts and culture sector.

The facilities, he emphasized, aim to make Edo a cost-effective and logistically supportive destination for film production, noting that the industry now has access to affordable filming locations and logistics in Edo State, along with highly subsidized accommodation through the Edonimose Residence.

“Edo has become the Venice of Africa. The number of creatives and artistes that have come into the city over the last 8 years is highly impressive. This shows that there is hope for Nigeria. By putting in place the right infrastructures, we have enabled our youths express themselves. We have hope that, if as a government we continue to do what we need to do; create an enabling environment, support the creatives, our society would turn around again.

“We have changed the fortunes and narratives of Edo State, giving hope to the youth by showing them that they are innately creative. We have made investments across the spectrum. They have seen that it is possible to have jobs at home. So, if they do not make use of these facilities that we have built for their development, it would be their fault.

“The challenge that has been thrown to Edo people today is; if you allow things to go back to what it seemed to be before I came, it is your fault. I have shown you what you can be. Don’t allow anybody to come and make you feel that you are less than what you are. Because you have seen the light, you now know that your life can be better. You must stand your ground and fight for yourself. If you do not, do not blame anybody.

“We are not saying this is the end; this is the beginning. So if you allow anybody to terminate the beginning, then we cannot make any progress," Obaseki said.

In a keynote address, the former Governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, noted that Edo State has become a major talent hub, while recognizing Obaseki’s impactful leadership in various sectors, including power, education, arts, healthcare, and industrialization, likening his legacy to that of Late Gen. Samuel Ogbemudia, while commending him for transforming Edo into a cultural and tourist destination, creating jobs, and preserving Ogbemudia’s vision.

In the same vein, the former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke, congratulated Obaseki for his vision and perseverance in advancing the State's development. Criticizing the winner-takes-all approach in governance practiced by many politicians, he warned that undermining previous projects from one's predecessors, only brings harm to the citizens. Duke expressed hope that Obaseki’s projects would endure and positively impact Edo’s future, emphasizing the importance of sustainability of the projects by the incoming administration.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Hon. Uyi Oduwa Malaka, highlighted the administration's Heritage 100 project, aimed at training and employing over 100 Edo youths to manage the Benin Cultural District and attract artistes to the State, describing the new facilities as a platform for filmmakers and creatives to produce world-class content and gain skills, contributing to job creation and celebrating Edo's rich culture and resilience.

06/11/2024

Watch the Commissioning of the First State-Owned Data Center in Nigeria and Official Launch of Edo State Digital Policy, by Governor Godwin Obaseki

05/11/2024

Edo State Govt Concludes Training for 50 Youths in Data Science, Web Design

By Orumwense Sarah O.

Edo State Government in collaboration with GOMYCODE, has successfully concluded a four-month intensive training programme in Data Science and Full Stack/Web Design for 50 youths in the State.

Harping on the need to acquire digital skills which are necessary assets in the digital space and global community, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon. Osilama Okuofu, said it has become imperative to train young men and women who would represent the bright future of the State.

In the same vein, the State Commissioner for Youth and Humanitarian Affairs, Hon. Zubairu Dada Abubakar, lauded the initiative and efforts of the Obaseki administration to execute projects, stating that it would assist youths in mastering concrete digital skills to equip their minds with valuable knowledge to strive in a tech driven society.

The Country Manager of GOMYCODE, Mr. Babatunde Olaifa, commended the State Government’s drive in empowering youth in the State to gain relevance in the tech space.

The programme which spanned from June to September, 2024, offered two tracks – Data Science and Full Stack/Web Design. In the Data Science track, participants explored modules including data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and data ethics. They engaged in hands-on projects that challenged them to analyze and derive insights, enhancing their problem-solving abilities in real-world contexts.

In the Full Stack/Web Design programme, trainees immersed themselves in modules like HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), JavaScript, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) design, and Responsive Web Development.

Trainees worked on projects that allowed them to bring creativity and technical prowess together, building interactive and visually engaging web platforms.

The rigorous training, made possible by the guidance and unwavering support of the facilitators, has made participants to develop not only technical skills but also invaluable teamwork and project management abilities.

Dignitaries present at the event include; Managing Director of Edo ICTA, Mr. Goodluck Igbinedion, Consultant on E-Governance and other ICTA related matters, Mrs. Birgitta Okodugha, Families and Friends of Graduands, and other invited Guests.

High point of the occasion was the special recognition of the top 10 students and the presentation of certificates to all participants. Awards were also presented to deserving individuals.

05/11/2024

Edo State Govt Presents Comprehensive Transport Master Plan

By Osemudiamhen Gloria

The Management of the Edo State Transport Authority (EDSTA), under the auspices of the Edo State Government, has presented an interim report on the State's Comprehensive Transport Master Plan (CTMP) at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), in Benin City.

In a welcome address, the Managing Director of EDSTA, Mrs. Edugie Agbonlahor, appreciated stakeholders and emphasised the importance of the engagement to include seeking inputs and collaboration from internal stakeholders in developing CTMP for the State.

Mrs. Agbonlahor described the transport sector in Edo State to have been faced with many challenges including dominance of the informal sector, lack of data for effective planning, weak regulatory, institutional and legal framework, huge transport infrastructure deficit, non-availability of transport policy and transport master plan for the State, amongst others.

The ESTA Boss highlighted the transport sector's vital role to include the State's socio-economic development, and to create a seamless, integrated transportation network promoting multi-modal transportation options.

She noted: "An efficient transportation system does not only enhance connectivity of goods, people and services, but fosters economic growth and improves quality of life for the people."

"One of the core deliverables of CTMP is to create a seamless, integrated transportation network that connects people and places efficiently and effectively by promoting multi-modal transportation options that encourage the use of public transport, walking, cycling and other sustainable modes of travel."

She highlighted how the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration has been instrumental in developing strategic plans that cater for the future of the State in terms of sustainable transport system and added that the CTMP is a part of the Edo State Regional Development Plan and the Benin City Master Plan that will guide the State's development over the next 30 years.

Mrs. Agbonlahor stressed that the CTMP encompasses planning, implementation and coordination of all transport plans in the State, which will address challenges such as informal sector dominance, lack of data for effective planning, weak regulatory frameworks, infrastructure deficits, non-availability of transport policy and master plan.

She concluded that the CTMP will form the basis for identifying, costing, and programming transport investments, projects, measures, initiatives, and reforms needed to develop an efficient, effective, and sustainable transport system in the State by 2040.

In her submission, the Edo State Commissioner for Culture, Arts and Tourism, Mrs. Uyi Oduwa Malaka, appreciated the CTMP as a prerequisite for tourism development and that a deliberate transport master plan is crucial for tourism growth.

Mr. Shola Adegboju from Planet Projects Limited, outlined the CTMP's objectives, its operating system, and gave recommendations on roads and highways, public transport (bus and rail), water transport, freight, traffic management and airport development. He added that the recommended improvements by 2040 include expanding and modernizing road networks, dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian pathways, robust public transport systems (BRT and rail), enhanced freight transport capabilities, amongst others.

Other stakeholders at the event included the Managing Director, ECTS, Mrs. Hauwa Dupe Ohikhuare, representatives from the Edo State Traffic Management Agency, EDSTMA, media personnel amongst others.

03/11/2024

Obaseki Commissions Edo State Government House Chapel

The Chapel situated at the Edo State Government House in Benin City, was remodeled by the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration and commissioned on Sunday November 3, 2024.

Present at the event were: Edo State Deputy Governor, Engr Omobayo Marvellous Godwins; Edo State First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Metropolitan Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Benin, Bishop Obiora Akubeze;

Also present were: Former PFN President, Rev Dr. Felix Omobude; Edo State CAN Chairman, Apostle Dr. Irekpono Omoike; PDP candidate in the just concluded gubernatorial election, Dr Asue Ighodalo and Wife Mrs. Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, amongst others.

Details shortly...

02/11/2024

Press Statement

November 2, 2024

Edo Accountant General, four others invited by EFCC over already repaid loan facility, officers detained to cripple govt, governance

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in a letter dated October 28, 2024, invited four officials from the Edo State Treasury Office, including the Accountant General, Julius Anelu, to its Benin Office.

The letter of invitation, addressed to the Secretary to the State Government and titled “Loans and Agricultural Interventions Granted to Edo State Government from Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) from 2018 to date,” pertains to an agricultural facility that has since been repaid by the State Government.

The government officers, including the State Accountant on Thursday, honoured the invitation as requested at the Benin Office of the EFCC to provide necessary answers as required by the EFCC.

However, upon realizing that one of the invited officials was no longer a signatory to the government account, the EFCC released the officer and requested for the current signatory, whose name was not initially on the invitation letter. The said officer is now also being detained by the agency at Abuja , in addition to the others who were originally invited and honoured the invitation.

The EFCC seems intent on crippling governance in Edo State and acting out a script that portends grave danger to democracy. The reason for the invitation of these civil servants is clear, contrary to the invitation letter is to keep them in EFCC custody till November 12, on the day of the termination of the tenure of this government.

In fact, from Monday, government would have been grounded and will no longer be able to meet up with basic responsibilities and obligations.

This devious action is most condemnable and reprehensible and we urge the EFCC to act responsibly in the interest of democracy, justice, peace and the wellbeing of Edo people and immediately release these government officials, and not throw Edo State into chaos.

Edo State Government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki runs a transparent and accountable Government. This Government runs until November 12th, 2024. Unconstituitional actions should not be done to hinder its operations.

Signed

Chris Osa Nehikhare
HC Communication&Orientation

Edo Communications Office - ECO

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