. Edo Govt Organise Stakeholders Workshop to Showcase Okpebholo 6-Month Achievements

By Ikpommwosa Odigie

The Edo State Government on Friday held a stakeholders sensitization workshop at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub, Airport Road, Benin City. The event, themed “Exposing the Programs and Objectives of the Gov. Monday Okpebholo Administration,” was convened to highlight the achievements of Governor Okpebholo within his first six months in office.

In his opening remarks, the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, welcomed participants and explained that the workshop was aimed at informing stakeholders about the administration’s developmental strides. He listed the construction of federal and state roads, the renovation of public schools, and the Ikpoba Hill flyover project as key infrastructural milestones achieved so far.

Representing the Secretary to the State Government, Eng. Mrs. Phoebe Williams Bello spoke about the administration’s SHINE initiative — a policy framework focused on Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Natural resources, and Education. She highlighted notable projects, including the procurement of patrol vehicles, revival of vigilante services, a ₦63 billion healthcare allocation, and ₦62 billion budgeted for infrastructure projects in the 2025 fiscal year.

Other speakers included the Commissioner for Education, Hon. Paddy Iyamu, who stressed the government’s ongoing anti-cultism campaign and plans for new science laboratories in schools. Prof. Felix Orhiakhi of the Federal University, Otuoke, commended the administration’s practical governance style and decisive actions against insecurity. Commissioner for Women Affairs, Bisi Idahomi Esq, outlined government efforts in addressing gender-based violence, while Hon. Jerry Idahosa, Executive Secretary of EDESMA, announced the revival of the state’s emergency response program and new toll-free numbers.

Eng. Dr. John Obanor of the Ministry of Works disclosed that several road projects abandoned by previous administrations had been revived under Governor Okpebholo. He said these projects are aimed at improving security, ease of transportation, and the timely delivery of goods across Edo State. The workshop concluded with renewed calls for unity and support for the administration’s development agenda.