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https://punchng.com/ugbiyoko-community-lauds-obaseki-on-benin-road-project/

*Ugbiyoko community lauds Obaseki on Benin road project*

Residents and business owners in Ugbiyoko, Benin City have hailed the Edo State government for resuming work on the Ekhewuan Barracks road.

The road which has now been tarred to Ogede, has brought succour to the residents, who had previously expressed dissatisfaction over the poor state of the road.

When South-South PUNCH visited the area on Wednesday, a lady who simply gave her name as Isoken, said that tarring the road has helped to boost the living conditions of the people and businesses in the area.

She said that those who were contemplating leaving the area have now jettisoned the idea. She, however, noted that the absence of drainage along the road has led to flooding the few times it has rained this year.

She said, “The governor, Godwin Obaseki, has done well by resuming work on the road. Motorists can now move freely without fear of damaging their cars, while business has improved since the construction resumed.

“However, drainages were not constructed on some parts of the road, which has caused parts of the area to be flooded whenever it rains. If it is not too late, I would like drainages to be constructed so that flooding can be reduced in the area.”

James Osadolor, who sells building materials in the area, stated that business has improved in the area. He noted that those who abandoned their buildings have returned to their sites and are buying materials to continue their building project.

He said, “I am very happy that the government has resumed work on the road. I can tell you that business has improved and residents can now move freely to and fro their offices and places of businesses

“I will urge the government to complete the construction of the road before its tenure comes to an end in November so that the communities in this area can become developed like other areas in the state capital.”

*Eid-el-Fitr: Obaseki felicitates with Muslim faithful, harps on sacrifice, love*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has felicitated with Muslims in the State on the celebration of Eid-El Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In his Eid-El Fitr message, Obaseki urged Muslim faithful not to relent but intensify prayers for the nation to overcome its current challenges.

Obaseki said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend my warmest congratulations to you as we commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

“As you celebrate this joyous occasion, I urge you to sustain the lessons of sacrifice and love learnt during the Ramadan fast. We are in very difficult times, and it would take a great deal of selflessness and love to be our brothers' keeper. So, I urge you to go the extra mile in extending a hand of support to friends, relatives and acquaintances as we press on.”

The governor added, “I implore you to show compassion to one another, as taught by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W), especially at these trying times. Working and supporting each other, we can surmount our nation's challenges. This is why it is pertinent to continue to pray and work towards building a progressive nation anchored on progressive ideals.”

*Obaseki, the defender of the oppressed in Edo*

*_By Joseph Osaru_*

Since Governor Godwin Obaseki took office in 2016, he has deployed a deft approach to governance aimed at providing succor to the weak, oppressed, marginalized and vulnerable members of the society with a focus to addressing their needs.

Edo people will not forget in a hurry the days when thugs wielded giant whips, flogging poor mothers struggling to eke out a living in markets and harassing and oppressing commercial bus drivers who toil night and day to cater for their families. These criminal elements perpetuated this in the guise of revenue generation, with over 90 percent of the said ‘revenue’ collected ending up in their private purse.

Today, the story has changed for the better and sanity has been restored to the Benin metropolis on the back of the governor’s innovative revenue collection system.

Not many would forget how the people of the State were subjected to subjugation and exploitation in the hands of killer community gangs who perpetuated their evil in the guise of Community Development Associations (CDAs) until Obaseki sanitized the system.

That era when one ‘strong’ man was selling a parcel of land to 20 people amid a myriad of attacks on the State’s real estate developers by notorious criminal elements who hounded genuine investors and halted development in the State.

But the governor changed all of these. He introduced nuanced land administration reforms, proscribing the activities of these CDAs and criminal gangs and creating the State’s Geographic Information Service, which today delivers C-of-Os to property owners in less than five weeks, and at an affordable price.

Can we forget in a hurry the pitiable sight of our pensioners wearing black and black, sitting, walking, running across major Streets within the Benin metropolis, protesting their unpaid pensions and gratuities? When our mothers, fathers and older citizens were oppressed and subjected to extreme suffering and severe hardship, with many of them dying without getting their entitlements despite giving their all in service to the State?

Today, Edo is the darling of workers and pensioners. It is unsurprising that these pensioners who are invariably the happiest in the country have now become ardent lovers and supporters of the governor who has kept to his promise of paying them their pensions as and when due. The governor has also harmonised pension and started to clear gratuities of retirees in the State.

For the political scene, the governor has also made manifest an undying commitment to ending oppression in all its guise and form. He has enthroned equity and fairness across the State, creating opportunities for marginalized areas to attain political ascendancy. The examples of this abound.

The people of Owan had suffered long-standing political marginalization as they never got the opportunity to occupy any leadership position in the history of the State but for the first time Obaseki ended this form of political relegation, giving the Owan people an opportunity at leadership through their son, Blessing Agbebaku who currently serves as the Speaker of the 8th House of Assembly.

For the Esan people, who have not had any significant representation in the governance of the State since 1999, except for the short reign of Oserheimen Osunbor as governor between 2007 and 2008, it was Governor Obaseki who initiated the idea of ceding the position of the next governor to them, in the spirit of equity, justice and fairness.

Today, a successful son of Esanland, Dr. Asue Ighodalo is the governorship candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). That was what also forced the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) to cede their party ticket to an Esan man.

Akoko Edo, which is one of the oldest local government areas in Nigeria, had not also had an opportunity for fair representation in government except when the governor appointed their son, Taiwo Akerele, to serve as his former Chief of Staff.

The governor also most recently shattered the age-long jinx of marginalization and political exclusion of the Akoko Edo people with his decision to appoint 37-year-old Omobayo Marvellous Godwins as his new deputy following the impeachment of his former deputy, Philip Shaibu by the State Assembly.

Is it not clear that Governor Obaseki is the defender of the oppressed? People-centric, the governor has continued to pursue an agenda to provide succor to the weak, marginalized, oppressed and vulnerable members of the society. This is more than enough reason to be grateful to Governor Obaseki.

*_Osaru, a freethinker, writes from Edebiri Street, Oredo LGA_*

*Eid-el-Fitr: Obaseki felicitates with Muslim faithful, harps on sacrifice, love*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has felicitated with Muslims in the State on the celebration of Eid-El Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In his Eid-El Fitr message, Obaseki urged Muslim faithful not to relent but intensify prayers for the nation to overcome its current challenges.

Obaseki said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend my warmest congratulations to you as we commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

“As you celebrate this joyous occasion, I urge you to sustain the lessons of sacrifice and love learnt during the Ramadan fast. We are in very difficult times, and it would take a great deal of selflessness and love to be our brothers' keeper. So, I urge you to go the extra mile in extending a hand of support to friends, relatives and acquaintances as we press on.”

The governor added, “I implore you to show compassion to one another, as taught by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W), especially at these trying times. Working and supporting each other, we can surmount our nation's challenges. This is why it is pertinent to continue to pray and work towards building a progressive nation anchored on progressive ideals.”

*Profile of Omobayo Marvellous Godwins*

Omobayo is the new Deputy Governor of Edo State.

He is a seasoned Engineer with a proven track record of progressive professional experience in the oil and gas sector.

Born July 19, 1986, Omobayo hails from Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the State.

With a B.Eng Degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and Msc in Public Administration from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), he is well suited for the role as a professional and an expert in public administration.

He is a registered member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

A thorough-bred young professional, he serves as a Senior Maintenance Engineer in Dresser Wayne West Africa Limited, cutting his professional teeth in the operations in the South South area, providing top-notch services and growing the business in the region.

He has also been active in politics in his local government, building bridges of trust with the people and mobilising them for common causes, breaking political barriers to the chagrin of his opponents.

*Behold the Edo State New deputy Governor, 38 years-old Omobayo Marvellous Godwins..*

Congratulations to Akoko Edo.

*Youngest Deputy in Nigeria.*

*Edo reels gains of Obaseki’s reforms as Okpella Cement, Don Mac Ltd, Duport, others lead firms with pioneer status*

_*… manufacturing, food processing, agribusiness emerge as active sectors*_

The expansive reforms by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration have attracted a number of companies into Edo State which now enjoy pioneer status approval from the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).

The details of the company’s status were released by the NIPC in its Report on Pioneer Status Incentive Application for Third Quarter of 2023 covering July to September, 2023.

The NIPC said the release is in compliance “with the requirements of the Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) Act Cap I7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 and the Pioneer Status (Delegation of Certain Statutory Functions) Order of 2017.”

According to the commission, the companies in Edo State with active pioneer status include Okpella Cement Plc, which employs 570 staff and has invested N178 billion in its operations which span manufacturing of cement, limestone, and plaster in the Okpella axis of the State.

The other companies include: “Don Mac Limited, which has invested N8 billion in the State and employs 175 staff. It has an active license which spans for 3 years, from 2021 to 2024. The company is involved in the manufacturing of gas cylinders, tanks, reservoirs and containers of metal.”

Other companies in the State that are processing their applications include Saro Allied Resources and Processing Nigeria Limited, Duport Midstream Company, Greenhills Agricultural Products Limited, Dufil Prima Foods Plc and Flour Mills Nigeria Plc.

The featured companies are those that have invested in the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP) and other off-takers in the agribusiness sector. Manufacturing companies such as Don Mac Limited put up a strong following with the volume of investment. This is just as cement manufacturing is captured with Okpella Cement Limited, operated by Dangote Group.

Lecturer and policy analyst at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), Ikponmwosa Nosakhare said the development bodes well for the local economy, as it is evident of the State’s dramatic shift from a civil service State to an industrial haven.

“The State has taken a turn for the better as the rise of manufacturing, food processing and agribusiness concerns means increased productivity and more jobs for the locals. It also means that the graduates from the universities in the State are more likely to find jobs locally. The labour requirements are quite specific so we expect that a lot of effort would go into supporting the higher institutions in the State.”

He added that though a form of investment incentive, the pioneer status policy is engineered to lead to growth and expansion in the local economy in the long run because the companies would boost local capacity and ultimately contribute to economic returns.

*Edo facilitating ease of doing business, promoting business growth with land administration reforms*

The Edo State Government has said it is leveraging technology to boost investment inflow into the State, facilitate ease of doing business, and promote business growth through the land administration reforms by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City, Managing Director of the Edo Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), Osaro Grace Aihie, noted that the ease and convenience in processing title documents for landed property and the improved land administration system has opened the state for economic growth and attracted several investors.

According to her: “We have done so much to enhance the ease of doing business through our reforms in land administration. Ease of doing business comprises that the investors should have a fair playing ground and the people should be carried along to understand what the investors have come to do. So, what we do is sit together and discuss. Where there are problems, we look at the problems and look for a solution and everybody agrees, then we go on. That is the ease of business we are talking about.

“We have ensured that businesses and investors don't have bottlenecks that are stopping them from doing their business. We also make the people understand that if they cooperate with the investors, they are likely going to get employment and other benefits. These are the things we do. We don't fight; problems are to be solved. We sit down, look at the problem and solve it. A little to the right, a little to the left, and everybody is happy. And when it comes to the title, if you say you have a land somewhere, we will look at our records and tell you that from the records, this or that person is the true owner and problems are solved.”

The EdoGIS MD continued: “Since the beginning of this new technology that His Excellency has brought, many things have changed. Land grabbing has reduced drastically; no more loss of investment or capital. Before now some people would just go and buy land without conducting a search and when they come to EdoGIS, they see that the property is either mortgaged or does not belong to the person who sold it to them. There is a loss of investment there.

“But what I keep saying is that you should conduct a search. If you are going to buy land for N100 million, you just need N25,000 to find out if that land is free from all encumbrances. If you do that, and we tell you, ‘Yes, it is John that owns the land, then you are good to go. Then, if there is already a C-of-O and you come for the same land, there is an overlap and we cannot continue. We stop there and call those involved, communities even come.

“Sometimes they agree that they even gave the same land to two people, then we say no, you have to relocate one person to another land. For those we cannot solve their problem, we refer them to the court and the law court decides who the owner is. When they send in the judgement, we accept and implement it. Because of all this, the issue of double-dealing has been drastically reduced.”

“We also visit communities. We went to one community recently and told them about the need to register their layout. If they do that too, there will be no double-dealing, there will be no land grabbing, no strife. They have been able to key in because they see it is good for them. If you have a community where they don’t fight, where they don’t double deal, many people will like to come there and the value of your land will increase. When investors come and you accept them in a community, they are happy. That is what we are talking about, ease of doing business, and it is helping us,” she added.

Easter: Obaseki felicitates with Christians, urges hope, resilience amid economic headwinds

I heartily felicitate with our Christian faithful as we commemorate the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Easter is a time for reflection, love, sacrifice, renewal and hope. I urge that we use this opportunity to ponder on the lessons and purpose of the celebration and renew our resolve towards achieving a more progressive and prosperous Nigeria.

As a people, we may have been stretched beyond limits occasioned by the high cost of living and other economic headwinds, but we must not lose hope. Working together in unity, we can overcome these challenges and place our country on the path of sustainable growth and development.

We must remain resilient and use the period of the celebration to seek the face of God, share our joy with neighbours and work towards a peaceful and progressive nation.

I wish you all a celebration filled with joy, peace and love.

Happy Easter celebration.

His Excellency,

Godwin Obaseki,

Governor, Edo State

Labour Party has never been ready for the Governorship election in Edo State, they only gave the ticket to the highest bider, well you won't blame d LP chieftain for familiarizing with Dr Asue Ighodalo, it's because he has come to the realization that Dr Asue Ighodalo is real deal in Edo State

Obaseki receives Obasanjo, as ex-president charges politicians on sacrifice, selflessness*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, at the weekend played host to former President Olusegun Obasanjo with the ex-president charging political leaders on sacrifice and selflessness.

Obaseki received Obasanjo who was on a courtesy visit at the Government House in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Commending the governor for the warm reception, the former President charged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country.

He noted, “The situation in Nigeria is hard, but no bad situation can't be made good. The question is, when and how? All we should be saying to those who have the opportunity now is to do their best. It is indeed an opportunity for you to run the affairs of your country and look after your people. It is an opportunity.

“It should not be me but we; not mine but ours; not my tomorrow but our tomorrow, and not my generation but all generations including the generation coming. This is what sustainable development is all about. You don’t eat today and not remember the generation coming that they too have to eat, that is all it is.”

On the developmental strides of Governor Obaseki in the last seven and half years, Obasanjo said, “The governor used this opportunity to brief me of what is going on in Edo State. Seeing is believing as when you are in a place you learn more by your visit than just hearing and that is what has just happened to me. I have learnt a lot and am better educated now about things in Edo State, recent and immediate future.”

On the secret of his good health and agility, the former President said, “The secret of good health is the grace of God. You must learn to grow and old gracefully with the grace of God. I used the acronym ‘DREAMSC’ which means, Diet, Rest, Exercise, Medicals, Social Interaction and Contentment.

“Exercise is important no matter how old you are. Your medical is important. You should interact with people and not be alone or dejected and depressed. Be content with what God has done for you and if not, you will run in circles.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), former President Olusegun Obasanjo, during Obasanjo’s courtesy visit at the Government House, Benin City, Saturday, March 30, 2024.

*Edo 2024: Isere’s failed attempt to sell ‘akpangili’ bicycle to Edo people when they can have a Tesla car*

_By John Legbedion_

Nations fail because people settle for less. When presented with the option to pick handouts from the high table or the challenge to build with focused leaders, men lacking in vision settle for the latter because it meets their immediate needs. This, more often than not, deprives them of a bright, assured future. And when things go awry, they are left to the elements and bemoan their ill-luck without realizing that they are architects of their predicament.

This much is lost on our brother, Felix Isere, a rabid hireling of counter-forces seeking to take Edo back to the trenches. His poor reasoning is laid bare in his most recent piece where he advertised his ignorance while spreading falsehoods and mischievous propaganda in an attempt to disparage the performance of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki over the past seven and half years.

The seven-paragraph hogwash was not just devoid of substance, it failed the basic test of logic, coming across as incoherent ramblings of a troubled and perennial loser whose life is at rock bottom.

I understand Felix Isere's problem. He is a lawyer who is not so good at his job so he resorted to praise singing for politicians for handouts. Unfortunately for him, Obaseki changed the way governance is done, only using the people’s money to pay for value created for and in the State.

Frustrated by the lack of political patronage, Felix had to pack up his wig and gown and flee to Europe to do menial jobs for survival. You can therefore imagine how personal this is for him.

His selfish expectations have blinded him to the tech revolution in Edo State or the return of oil palm plantations, with Edo boasting of the largest oil palm development programme in Africa. Hubs for creatives that have opened a new vista of opportunities for Edo youths do not impress him because it is better to have the youths as thugs. 24/hrs electricity supply from Ossiomo Power is powering homes, government buildings, businesses, streets and industrial clusters but that means nothing to him because he prefers that the money be shared among praise singers and palace jesters.

He prefers an illiterate, who could not even manage to pass NECO after trying to obtain high school result from a special centre in Jos in his late thirties. A man without discernable proof for his source of wealth. Whose base philosophy and approach to governance is the ‘creation of boreholes.’  Is that the choice for governor of Edo State?

Unfortunately, yes. Isere prefers this against the choice of a seasoned lawyer who built the biggest corporate law firm in Africa, Banwo and Ighodalo. The businessman-cum-politician is a colossus who has stridden the top echelons of the corporate world in Africa. His well-established leadership acumen, which has earned him numerous chairmanship roles across the private and public sectors, speaks volumes about the capacity that Asue brings to the table.

What better to do than ignore the greed of Felix and his attempt to enthrone self-interest over and above the good of the people.

The Latin maxim; "Nemo dat quod non habet," meaning “no one gives what he does not have” is highly instructive here. Okpehbolo does not have what Edo needs.

Edo people know better.  Who go use akpangili bicycle take compare Tesla. I trust Edo people to choose wisely.

*_Legbedion, a public affairs analyst, writes from Benin City_*

*Obaseki hosts Rema, as artiste unveils plans for art, entertainment project*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has assured support for upcoming artists in the State to enable them compete favourably with their peers across the globe.

The governor gave the assurance when he hosted Edo-born musical prodigy, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, for lunch at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State.

Obaseki said, “He is here for a private lunch. We had an opportunity to chat and catch up with him. He has not been here since I became governor. Rema left Edo just as I was getting into office as governor. It’s nice to have him back after six years.

“We had an opportunity to tell him all we have done and how we are interested in supporting young people in the arts, culture and entertainment sectors. We have commenced the conversation with him on an iconic art project for this City and this part of the Country.”

On his part, Rema thanked the people of Edo State for being supportive throughout his musical journey, expressing appreciation to the governor for caring for young people in the State.

He noted: “The lunch was great and we spoke about a lot of important things, especially his programme for the young people. It's very beautiful to see a governor that cares for the future. He does not only have a vision for his tenure but beyond the eight-year period.

“We have so much in stock for the young people of the State. I would not be here in the first place if not for the youths in Nigeria. They are the people I am part of, live for, the people I inspire and motivate. They are the next generation.”

On his art project, he said: “This is the time to do something for the youths. I just want to do things. I have been able to make a breakthrough in the music industry. I went out there to perform on the global stage and took Benin City with me. I carried the city on my back and on my shoulders and expressed my culture in the best way I could.

“The government will make moves and it is also time for the youths to make moves, re-educate themselves, ready to accept new rules for the betterment of the Community and for the evolution of the entertainment industry as well.”

*PHOTO CAPTION*

*DSC_01*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left) presenting a souvenir to Edo-born musical prodigy, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, after a lunch, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, March 29, 2024.

*DSC_02*

L-R (front row): Managing Director, Edo State Public Building Maintenance Agency, Austin Osakwe; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Edo-born musical prodigy, Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema; Edo State Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Uyi Malaka Oduwa, and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, after a lunch, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, March 29, 2024.

*Good Friday: Obaseki tasks Christians on sacrifice, tolerance*

I celebrate with our Christian brothers and sisters as we mark Good Friday, a remembrance of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Calvary for the redemption of mankind.

I urge everyone to, in the spirit of the season, reflect on the significance of this day by imbibing the virtues of sacrifice, love, tolerance and selflessness.

There is no better time to show this than now when we are faced with dire economic conditions which have put many in distress.

As we celebrate this year’s Good Friday, we must remember to be our brothers’ keeper and look out for each other at this difficult time, while remaining resolute in our love for God and our nation.

On behalf of the government of Edo State, I wish all our Christian brothers and sisters a blessed and peaceful Good Friday.

*His Excellency,*
*Godwin Obaseki,*
_Governor, Edo State_

That's because it's now glaring to all that Dr Asue Ighodalo is the real deal, Governor Godwin Obaseki has nothing to do with it, they simply saw the light which is Dr Asue Ighodalo and they followed

Professor Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jr., a key figure in the Obidient Movement, has announced his endorsement for a candidate in the upcoming Edo state gubernatorial election.https://x.com/ubando001/status/1772289802412372286?s=48&t=UvWfW0acFVn7DeKJG7h3ug

Barr. Osarodion Ogie cleared this morning by NWC of @OfficialPDPNig as Edo deputy governorship candidate. To Bar Asue Ighodalo @Aighodalo Done and dusted. Congratulations

Dr Asue Ighodalo expresses shock 🤯 over the kidnap of Edo State PDP chairman

Osarodion Ogie Esq on the move 💃 💃 💃 💃
#AiO²

Osarodion Ogie Esq has the capacity to b the deputy governor of Edo in all ramifications, his wealth of experience in governance will be of immense benefits to d pple of Edo State. Dr Asue Ighodalo & Osarodion Ogie are a great combination that will take Edo to a greater level.
#asueogie2024

*Obaseki approves payment of gratuity to LGA pensioners retired in 2009*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the payment of gratuity to pensioners who retired from the local governments in the State in 2009.

In a statement, the Acting Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mrs. Arewa Mary Omo, said the affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise for the payment of their gratuity.

She noted, “This is to inform Pensioners on the payroll of the Local Government Staff Pension Board who retired in 2009 that His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has approved the payment of their gratuity.”

According to her, “The affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise scheduled for: Date: Monday 25th Friday, 29th March, 2024; Venue: Local Government Staff Pension Board, Pension House, King Square, Benin City between 8 a.m.—4 p.m. daily.”

Arewa noted, “The Pensioners should also come along with the following documents: Letter of Retirement; Pensioners Identity Card; Pensioners Biometric Slip, and Pay Advice.

Obaseki, Uzamare inspect the construction of 16.742km Ikpako-Ajoki road off upper Ekenwan road

…A Strategic Link Connecting Communities in Edo state

The construction of Ikpako-Ajoki road off upper Ekanwan road (16.742km) in Ikpoba-Okha/Ovia North East LGAs is a strategic pathway and poised to serve as an alternative route linking both communities to the Ologbo community and Sapele road axis.

Speaking to newsmen, The commissioner for roads and bridges, Hon. Ethan Uzamare reassured governor Godwin Obaseki’s commitment to delivering the dividends of democracy across Edo state. According to him the road will create a crucial connections between the two communities thereby facilitating smooth transportation and commercial activities for those plying those roads.

The construction of the Ikpako-Ajoki road off upper Ekenwan road is set to mark a significant milestone in the overall development and connectivity within Edo state, promising far-reaching benefits for the local communities.

#ObasekiFinishingStrong

*Position Well Edo!!!*
*Position Well For September 2024!!!*

_Position for Mr. Credibility!_

_Position for the man with the capacity to serve, the man with the proven ability to deliver!_

_Position for Dr. Asue Ighodalo, a goal-getter, a bridge-builder, a humble unifier, a quiet philanthropist!_

_Position well Edo for the Man Wey Sabi!!!_

#AIRising
#Edo2024
#AsueIghodalo2024
#StandWithAsueIghodalo

*We’ve decentralized Edo’s healthcare system, building over 100 PHCs, says Obaseki*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government has in the last seven years and a half years focused on revamping and upgrading the State’s health sector, decentralizing the system and bringing quality and effective healthcare services closer to the people.

Obaseki said this when he inspected the progress of work at the ongoing reconstruction of Aruogba Primary Healthcare Center (PHC) in Oredo Local Government Area of the State.

Noting that the government has refurbished over 40 PHCs and is building over 100 others across the State, the governor said part of his administration’s health improvement plan was first to build neighborhood clinics of high standards which will help patients get quality health care regardless of their location in the State.

He said, “About seven years ago when we started our health improvement plan, we did say that the goal was to make sure that every citizen in Edo State does not drive a certain distance to seek healthcare. One of the major plans at that time was to focus on what you call Primary Healthcare Centers, that is neighborhood clinics, making sure you build infrastructure where people can easily go to get first-line health care.

“The plan is to build 100 of these facilities across the State. We have many of these existing in one form or the other. The plan is to continue to upgrade and improve them. The key to this is not the quality of the building but the quality of the people to manage it.

“This has led to our investment in our healthcare institutions like the School of Nursing and the School of Health Technology. These schools will provide the manpower required to man these facilities across the State.”

Obaseki further noted, “The important thing is to decentralize the healthcare system, no more central hospital as every ward and populated neighborhood must have a neighborhood clinic which is called the primary health center with all the basic facilities as seen here.

“The Aruogba Primary Healthcare Center has a 14-bed facility-seven for males and seven for females, theater, and accommodation for doctors, among others.”

“We are trying to build about 100 of these and today, we have refurbished about 40 and have 60 more to go,” he added.

*Obaseki charges Muslims on devotion, good neighbourliness during Ramadan*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called on Muslim faithful to foster good neighbourliness and kindness during the Ramadan season.

In a statement to mark the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan, the governor said the fasting period should serve as a time for soulful reflection, devotion, prayers and to care for one another.

According to him: “As the Muslim faithful embark on Ramadan, I implore you to uphold the virtues of Islam by showing love and compassion to all. It is a time to show good neighbourliness and extend a helping hand to the needy in society, especially in these trying times.

“The Ramadan season is coming at a time when many people are faced with dire economic challenges. It is best to show love this period as we approach the period solemnly.

“Ramadan provides us an opportunity to bond and show love to our friends and acquaintances and the current season calls for such.”

*Mothers’ Day: Obaseki celebrates mothers, hails sacrifice in navigating complexities of motherhood*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has celebrated mothers for their immense role in societal development, hailing their sacrifice, perseverance, bravery and resourcefulness in expertly navigating the daunting challenges of motherhood, especially amid the current economic realities.

The governor in commemoration of 2024 Mothers’ Day, said mothers face complex challenges both at home and in society, from managing household responsibilities to navigating societal expectations and balancing work commitments, among others, noting that they have expertly and selflessly navigated these challenges with grace and resilience.

He said mothers deserve praise for making sacrifices that have led to the advancement of society and are still at the forefront of reforms and changes that guarantee a better future.

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According to him, "Mothers are God’s most distinctive gift to mankind, and this year’s Mother’s Day celebration presents yet another fine opportunity to celebrate and appreciate them for their sacrifices, love, care and unflinching commitment to family and society.

“Even in the face of dire economic straits, they have shown brightly, conquering several odds to be the superhumans they are. It is in this light that the state government is executing reforms and undertaking projects to make the roles of mothers easier. We are executing empowerment programmes, making the workplace friendlier, and implementing more policies to lessen the load on mothers.”

Reassuring of efforts to protect mothers and guarantee them better opportunities, the governor stated, "We have brought mothers to the decision table as we have a good number of women occupying top-tier positions in government, which affords us the opportunity to tap from their innate potential to build a better and inclusive society.

“From our government’s reforms in healthcare to education, housing, agricultural programmes, gender mainstreaming and many more, mothers who have been placed at strategic points in the value chain have all played huge roles in ensuring a better life for Edo people and we are proud of their accomplishments and exploits.”

*Int’l Women’s Day: Obaseki hails Nigerian women’s resilience, courage in tough times*

_*…urges increased investment, global action to bridge gender gap, accelerate progress in advancing equality*_

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed Nigerian women for their resilience and courage in the wake of the dire conditions that they have had to operate occasioned by the rising inflation and other economic challenges.

The governor, in a statement to mark International Women’s Day (IWD), noted that the inflationary trend has heavily impacted families, which are struggling to survive amid the high cost of living and other economic headwinds.

The 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) marked by the United Nations (UN) and other development organisations across the globe has the theme, 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.'

Obaseki who celebrated women for their impact and immense contributions to the growth and development of the society, called for increased global action, including strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and improving investment towards efforts at bridging the gender gap and accelerating the progress on gender equality.

According to him, “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I am moved to praise the resilience and courage of Nigerian women who are forced to make tough decisions every day over the rising cost of living. This has impacted them when they go to work and even on the home front. It takes fortitude to keep things running smoothly.

“As commissioners, permanent secretaries or heads of agencies, market women or business owners in Edo State, women have proven to be expert managers of resources. They have been resilient and courageous in the discharge of their duties and we celebrate these great traits on this day.”

“However, beyond this, I must acknowledge women for their contributions to societal advancement, from changing the narrative in the world of business to their complementary role in the home.

“It is worth noting that the family unit remains one of the strongest forces of socialization. While we witness severe attacks on this essential unit that holds our core values and virtues, women have stood as vanguards of hope and positive change.”

The governor also noted that efforts have been taken to support women-led enterprises in the State, stating that women play key roles in business and politics and must be supported because of their unrelenting commitment to making society better.

“For us, we believe women must be supported. This is why we have made necessary investments to support their businesses. We are redesigning and rebuilding markets and giving more women roles in government because we believe in their innate ability to do good and care for others,” he added.

"I am not afraid of hard work, i was brought up to work hard" ~ Dr Asue IghodaIo

#AsueIghodalo2024

Guinness World Record: Obaseki assures support for youths, hails Osariemen for marathon reading attempt

… cheers Osariemen as she reaches 207 hours, advocates more support

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government will continue to prioritize young people in the State, ensuring they are adequately empowered and equipped with the right skills and tools to realize their full potential.

Obaseki said this when he led other government functionaries to the Edo State Library Complex, at the State Secretariat, Benin City, to cheer Osariemen Angel Asein, an indigene of the State who is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual.

As at the time of the governor’s visit, Osariemen Asein, who kicked off the attempt on February 23, 2024, has read for 207 hours, surpassing the current 145-hour Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud.

Obaseki was accompanied by his wife, Betsy; Special Adviser on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie; Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare; Commissioner for Digital Economy, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor; Commissioner for Education, Joan Osa-Oviawe and the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Uyi Jennifer Oduwa-Malaka, among others.

Speaking to journalists, the governor said the vision of Osariemen aligns well with what his administration has done in the State in the last seven years, developing the reading culture of our young ones and re-enacting the education system, particularly basic education.

He said, “I am very excited and it's gratifying for me to see one of our own, Osariemen Angel Asein attempting to break the Guinness World Record in reading. It's just ties in with what we have preached and the work we have done in the State in the last seven years, trying to re-enact education, particularly basic education, and develop the reading culture of our young ones and children in this State.

“It’s quite pleasing to see one of them trying to take it to another level, letting the world see how well Edo young people are doing; how aspirational and globally competitive they have become. I believe that there can't be a greater reward for our administration than what this young lady is doing. I am asking all of you to support her in this quest as we are here to support her as she has broken the world record in reading; what a record to break! it's quite gratifying and fulfilling.”

Obaseki who also received Prof. Demas Nwoko, one of Africa’s greatest architects at the library to support the aspiration of Osariemen Asein, commended him for his architectural work across the globe.

He noted that Edo State has also benefited from Prof Nwoko’s architectural work as Oba Akenzua Cultural Center is one of his works.

Obaseki noted, “Here we have Prof. Demas Nwoko, most people may not realize he is one of Africa’s greatest architects; he is joining us here today. One of his seminar works is the Oba Akenzua Cultural Center which is one of the 1001 buildings you must see in this world before you die.

“He is here in Edo State with us as Osariemen read from one of his books. He is here to see one of his works, the Oba Akenzua Cultural Center which we are going to finally try to complete and make it part of the cultural district which we are building for people to come and see.”

In addition, the Edo State Ministry of Education through its EdoBest Programme launched the Book and Art Festival with the maiden theme, “Every Child a Reading Champion.”

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with an indigene of Edo State who is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual, Osariemen Angel Asein, at the State Library, in Benin City, Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

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L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Education, Joan Osa-Oviawe; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Governor Godwin Obaseki, and Prof. Demas Nwoko, at the Edo State Library, venue for Osariemen Angel Asein’s attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual, in Benin City, Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

*POLITICAL MISCALCULATIONS: The fall of a Man*

*By Hon. (Comr) Eromosele Ehisuan*
*President, Esan Agenda World Wide & Edo Coalition Movement*

We have told them that anyone that goes against Esan Agenda is against equity, fairness and justice. Therefore, the fall of the person will come faster.

We have never imposed the Esan Agenda on anyone, rather we have made appeals with all the gods of Esanland, our traditional rulers left their thrones and went round Edo South and Edo North for the purpose of Esan producing the next Governor of Edo State. Many listened and adhered to our appeals. Therefore, they joined the movement. God bless you all.

But Comr. Philip Shaibu's boys on one occasion wrote to discredit our traditional rulers. My team made a response to that and they withdrew. Some of them called me and apologized.

Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, our Deputy Governor was advised by his boss, Governor Godwin Obaseki to relax and let the Esan people have it, but he insulted his boss and started displaying youthful rascality in different occasions that he even discredited His Excellency in an event by coming late after the governor's arrival. It is an insult to the office of the Governor, because the Deputy shouldn't have come after his boss, rather he should have sitted, waiting for the arrival of his boss.

He disrespected the party leadership on the 22nd of February, 2024 by conducting a primary election by himself and declared himself a winner. It is an offence to be expelled by the State Working Committee (SWC), whereas, the party's legitimate primary election, supervised by all statutory bodies was conducted on that same day, which saw Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the authentic and legitimate candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest the September 21, Governorship Election. All aspirants were present in Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium for the primary election that Dr. Asue Ighodalo emerged the winner, except the two that withdrew from the race, Rt. Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide Ihama and Hon. Dr. Felix Ehiguese Akhabue, whose letters of withdrawal were sent to the National Working Committee.

The Deputy Governor insulted the office he occupies by constituting nuisance in the State and trying to unturn the smooth electorate process of the party recognized and supervised by INEC. He went further to travel all the way from Edo State to the National Office of the party in Abuja, requesting and demanding for a Certificate of Return without apologies. This is a disrespect to the office of the State Governor, who is also the leader of the party and he made caricature of the National Working Committee and the State Working Committee that have certified Dr. Asue Ighodalo winner of the party's primary election.

I believe the impeachment is long overdue. We as leaders and stakeholders of Edo Coalition Movement in conjunction with the Esan Agenda, have written a letter some weeks ago which went viral stating our position and frowned at the attitude of our dear Deputy Governor, advising him to tender an unreserved apology to the State Governor and the State Working Committee based on the youthful rascality displayed overtime. Well, the Edo State House of Assembly has deemed it necessary based on their own calculations as regard other impeachable offences to serve the Deputy Governor a notice of Impeachment, seeking his response within 7 days. It is a welcome development. We are in support of it.

*#Think Asue Ighodalo for Governor 2024#*

*#Think PDP#*

*#Think Edo State#*

*Powered by Edo Coalition Movement*

Obaseki inspects ongoing devt of Edo Radisson Hotel, says project to be completed in November*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the 170-room Edo Radisson Hotel will be completed before the end of his administration in November 2024.