23 hours ago
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The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday, stated that his administration has laid the foundation for a home-grown economy, where the state would be run by its people rather than outsiders.
The governor made this statement during an event marking his first 100 days in office, held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin.
He declared that the era of running the state with consultants was over.
Dignitaries at the event included the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje; former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole; two former Deputy Governors,
Other dignitaries included Dr Pius Odubu; Hon Philip Shaibu; Senator Matthew Urhoghide; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon Blessing Agbebaku; Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; commissioners; members of the state assembly; traditional rulers; and other stakeholders.
Okpebholo revealed that within the past 100 days, 3,500 illegal arms had been recovered from the now-reformed Edo State Security Corps.
To further enhance security, 75 Toyota Hilux vehicles and 50 motorcycles have been procured for security agencies.
He stated that, in his bid to combat cultism, his administration had amended the anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping law, introducing stiffer penalties, which had significantly reduced cult-related violence.
On the economy, Okpebholo noted, “We have taken significant steps to strengthen our economy by increasing Internally Generated Revenue to over ₦10 billion—the highest in the state’s history. This was achieved through prudent financial management strategies deployed by my government.
“We have disengaged wasteful consultants and reinvested resources to improve public service efficiency.”
The governor highlighted achievements in the health sector, including the launch of free malaria tests and treatment for the next two years.
He also noted that small and medium enterprises had received support through soft loans for traders.
He added, “In this short but impactful period, we have laid a strong foundation for progress across critical sectors. When we took over, we met a state full of potential but facing serious challenges — insufficient infrastructure, struggling businesses, and an inefficient public sector.
“From day one, our goal has been clear: to restore trust in leadership, create opportunities, and set Edo on the path to lasting progress. While there is still much to be done, we have begun taking decisive steps to turn our vision into reality.
“The future of our state under my leadership is bright, as evident in the progress we have made together. With our Economic Development Plan, which prioritises agriculture, infrastructure, and investment in youth skills development, I envision Edo becoming the fifth-largest economy in Nigeria. Our goal is to drive sustainable economic growth over the next four years.”
Senator Adams Oshiomhole commended Okpebholo’s leadership, describing him as “an action governor, not one of mere rhetoric,” and expressed confidence that he would restore good governance in Edo.
Speaker Blessing Agbebaku affirmed that the state assembly had resolved to support the governor in delivering good governance, evidenced by the bills they had passed and signed into law for the state’s progress.
In his remarks, APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, praised the governor’s early achievements, stating:
“In just 100 days, you have laid the foundation for the remaining years of your tenure, though, of course, you are to do ‘four plus four.’
“The members of the APC National Working Committee are pleased with you because we have been monitoring your progress in the media. Many of our members who have visited Edo State have heard positive reports about your leadership,” Ganduje said.
