₦airaland Forum

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of all Commissions in Edo State Public Service with immediate effect.

The news of the dissolution was contained in a statement on Tuesday morning signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor.

He listed the affected Commissions as the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission, the Civil Service Commission, Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission, Edo State Forestry Commission, the House of Assembly Service Commission, the State Audit Service Commission and the Judicial Service Commission.

The statement, therefore, directed all Chairmen and members of the affected Commissions to handover all Government properties in their possession to the most senior Public Officer in their Commission.

The Vice Chancellor, University of Benin, Professor Edoba Omoregie, SAN, has revealed plans to spread development of infrastructure to Site ‘B’ of the Ugbowo Campus of the University.

Prof. Omoregie disclosed this when he met with the Chairman, Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TETFund, Senator Muntari Dandutse in Abuja.

He emphasised the importance of transforming the infrastructure architecture of the neglected site ‘B’ in order not to further congest the already oversubscribed Site ‘A’.

The Vice Chancellor, therefore, solicited the support of the Senate Committee to actualise his plans.

Responding, Senator Dandutse pledged his Committee’s support and intervention to the Omoregie administration whenever it is necessary.

The host of the UNIBEN Alumni Series, Kevin Omokaro, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Mrs Christine Aluyi, an exceptional alumna, on her recent conferment as the Funtebere of the Ngbilebiri Mein Kingdom (Kiagbodo).

The prestigious chieftaincy title was bestowed upon Aluyi in recognition of her exemplary contributions to societal development, leadership, and unwavering commitment to her community. Her elevation as Funtebere underscores her dedication to service and her impact on the lives of those around her.

Aluyi is the current Registrar of Federal Polytechnic Orogun. She was before now, the registrar of College of Education Warri.

“Mrs Aluyi who has been a guest on UNIBEN Alumni Series, is a shining example of the university’s core values of excellence, integrity, and community service. Her investiture as Funtebere is a proud moment not just for her but for everyone around her. Her accomplishments inspire us all, and we are thrilled to see her recognized in this extraordinary way,” Omokaro remarked.

The recent remarks made by the former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Lilian Salami, labeling the majority of UNIBEN students as “uncultured” and likening the institution to a motor park, are not only deeply offensive but a clear attempt to deflect attention from her administration’s failings.

Her derogatory comments serve as an unwarranted attack on students who were left with no other recourse but to protest against the systemic neglect and poor living conditions under her leadership.

A Misguided Administration: Neglecting Students for Aesthetic Projects

Throughout her tenure, Professor Salami prioritized the beautification of the university’s environment, focusing on trees, grasses, and flowers while leaving critical student welfare issues unaddressed.

It is worth asking: What good is a serene campus environment if the students within it are subjected to substandard living conditions? Dormitories, which should have been safe havens for learning and personal growth, often lack basic amenities such as water and electricity.

Students were forced to live in overcrowded and dilapidated hostels while the administration turned a blind eye to their suffering. Food vendors operate without proper regulations, leading to frequent cases of food poisoning.

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor’s office was more concerned with external appearances, prioritizing manicured lawns over the well-being of the university’s most important stakeholders — the students.

A History of Protests

Under Professor Salami’s administration, protests became the norm rather than the exception. Students repeatedly raised their voices against the administration’s inability to address their legitimate demands for improved living conditions, affordable tuition, and functional facilities.

Rather than addressing these concerns, the administration often responded with hostility and repression. Instead of seeing these protests as a cry for help, Professor Salami has chosen to describe these students as “uncultured.”

But what is truly uncultured is an administration that consistently ignored its responsibilities, forcing students into the streets to demand what should have been theirs by right.

From blocked highways to sit-ins, these protests were borne out of frustration with a leadership that refused to listen or act in the interest of the student body.

The former Vice-Chancellor’s recent comments reveal not just a lack of understanding of the challenges faced by UNIBEN students but also her inability to take responsibility for her failures.

By blaming students for their own plight, she exposes her lack of empathy and leadership skills.

Strong leaders face challenges head-on and work collaboratively to find solutions. Weak leaders, on the other hand, deflect blame and seek excuses for their ineptitude.

Professor Salami’s administration will be remembered for its incompetence and ineffectiveness. Rather than addressing the core issues affecting students, she sought to silence them with dismissive remarks, hoping to shift public focus away from her years of mismanagement.

This is not the hallmark of a leader but of someone desperate to salvage a tarnished legacy.

Students Are Not the Problem; They Are the Victims

It is essential to set the record straight: UNIBEN students are not the problem. They are the victims of years of neglect and mismanagement.

The “uncultured” label used by Professor Salami is both baseless and insulting. It fails to acknowledge the resilience and courage of these students, who have continued to excel academically and personally despite the odds stacked against them.

Instead of painting students as troublemakers, Professor Salami should reflect on the systemic issues that led to their protests.

Why were students forced to block highways? Why were basic needs like water, electricity, and security left unmet? Why was the administration so quick to dismiss their concerns?

These are the questions that demand answers.

A Call for Accountability and Apology

We demand an unreserved apology from Professor Salami for her remarks, which have done nothing but further alienate students who suffered under her leadership.

Her comments do not reflect the values of the University of Benin or the hardworking students who continue to bring honour to the institution despite its challenges.

Furthermore, it is imperative that future administrations learn from these failures. A university is not just a collection of buildings and greenery; it is a community built around its students.

Their welfare must be the top priority, not an afterthought.

In conclusion, Professor Lilian Salami’s comments are a feeble attempt to deflect attention from her administration’s glaring failures.

Rather than owning up to her shortcomings, she has chosen to insult the very students whose lives she failed to improve.

History will remember her not as a leader but as a symbol of misplaced priorities and unfulfilled promises.

It is time for the University of Benin to turn a new page, one that centres on student welfare and restores the dignity of its academic community.

Divine Oguche
Concerned Alumnus,
SUG PRO – Students’ Spokesman
2014/2015 Academic Session

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has ordered an immediate review of the State’s electronic governance platform.

The order was contained in a “Government Special Announcement,” dated 25th November 2024, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.

According to the statement, the review became necessary following a discovery that the entire e-governance platform of Edo State Government is being run and operated from the backend by unknown non-state actors and no one within the entire Public Service of Edo State has administrative control of the platform.

“While all officials and staff of Ministries, Departments and Agencies are to continue to work on the e-governance platform, pending the outcome of the review, this statement is to also dismiss as untrue, some reports in a section of the social media that the state government has shut down the platform.

“The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to a report making the rounds that the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration has shut down the e-governance platform initiated by the previous administration. Nothing could be further from the truth.

“It has however been observed that the entire e-governance platform of Edo State Government is being run and operated from the backend by unknown non-state actors and no one within the entire Public Service of Edo State has administrative control of the platform.

“This is considered a serious data security threat as it has placed the entire governance structure of the state at the mercy of non-state actors or so-called consultants. This, therefore, calls for an urgent need to review the process.

“[b][/b]In the light of the foregoing and in order to remedy this clear and present danger, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate review of the entire e-governance platform with a view to enabling the Edo State government gain total administrative control of the platform and restoring institutional memory of government which the current platform lacks.

“While the review is ongoing, all officials and staff of Ministries, Departments and Agencies are to continue to work on the e-governance platform pending the outcome of ongoing review.”

As part of moves aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the public service sector, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okphebholo, has approved the immediate dissolution of Local Government Service Commission.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua said the development “is part of Governor Okpebholo’s ongoing reforms designed to streamline government operations, ensure efficiency, and improve the overall performance of all public sector institutions within the State.”

Governor Okpebholo assured Edo citizens, members of the public, and staff of the Commission that the dissolution will not affect the ongoing official affairs.

He reaffirmed his commitment to engaging with all stakeholders to develop a robust plan for restructuring the Local Government Service Commission for enhanced effectiveness and efficiency.

“This move became necessary in order to revitalise our Local Government Service Commission and reposition it for more efficient service delivery. By this decision, we aim to eliminate inefficiency and build a more accountable and effective local service structure.

“Edo State Government remains committed to transparent, efficient, and effective public service delivery with the intent of bringing the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.

“Updates regarding this decision and upcoming changes in the Local Government Service Commission will be communicated in due course,” the statement added.

In a bid to further right the wrongs of the immediate-past administration and foster cordial relations between the Government and the people, the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has restored the full statutory rights of the Benin Monarch over the contentious issue of the ownership of ancient artefacts looted from the palace of the Oba of Benin during the 1897 Benin Massacre by the British colonial forces.

Also, the State Government is withdrawing the letter revoking the concession of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre issued by the last administration to be used as a motor park.

These were contained in a statement issued on Sunday and made available to journalists in Benin City by Mr Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

“This administration is restoring the centre to a suitable condition for its original purpose, he said.

“This administration also hereby abolishes the new traditional councils in Edo South, created by the last administration.”

Accordingly, Governor Okpebholo has restored the statutory financial entitlements of the Benin Traditional Council (BTC) and has ordered that the status quo before the creation of the now abolished councils be maintained.

“The Okpebholo administration is backing the initial plan of the State Government to build the Benin Royal Museum that will house the returned artefacts and is distancing itself from the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWA) which the previous administration fronted as the museum to hold the returned Benin artefacts,” the statement added.

The Federal Government has also issued a Gazette for the recognition of ownership and custody of the repatriated Benin artefacts to Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II. This was done through a Government Notice No.25 in the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette No.57, Volume 110.

“Governor Okpebholo respects the rights and privileges of the traditional ruler of Benin Kingdom, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare ll and pledges the support of his administration to ensure the Monarch plays his role as the custodian of the rich cultural heritage of the Benin people.

“It is in recognition of this that the administration of Governor Okpebholo shall support the decision of the Federal Government to uphold the Oba of Benin as the exclusive owner of the returned Benin artifacts that were looted by the British Colonial forces during the Benin masaca of 1897.

“The Oba of Benin, as the father of all Benin people, is the sole custodian of the customs and traditions of the Benin people and my administration respects customs and traditions in the land and hereby restores the statutory rights of the Oba of Benin as the true custodian of the returned Benin artefacts,” the statement noted.

Governor Okpebholo said his administration is committed and will refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of the Benin Traditional Council.

“The Governor is using his constitutional powers and the respect for traditional institutions and the revered Oba of Benin to restore all other Statutory Rights of the Monarch not mentioned hereof,” the statement added.

Global2000:
The Alumni needs to step up. The students needs encouragement. This amount is way too poor.

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the constitution of a 14-man State Assets Verification Committee to probe the administration of Godwin Obaseki.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua on Sunday, he said Governor Okpebholo will inaugurate the Committee on Tuesday, the 26th of November, 2024, in Government House, Benin City.

Members of the Committee include: Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe – Chairman, Anslem Ojezua – Deputy Chairman, Prince Kassim Afegbua – Member, Hon. Patrick Ikhariale – Member, Mr. Taiwo Akerele – Member, Hon. Patrick Idiake – Member, and Hon. Rasaq Bello-Osagie – Member.

Others are: Mr. Fredrick Unopah – Member, Frank Osumuede Edebor Esq – Secretary, Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia – Member, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon – Member, Pharm. Kenny Okojie – Member, Mrs. Lyndsey Tes-Sorae – Member, and Hon. Abass Braimoh – Member.

“In furtherance of the Governor’s initiative to set the State on the path of development and accountable leadership, the need to set up a State Assets Verification Committee becomes very imperative.

“Despite repeated calls for a more holistic database of the Assets and Liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led Government came up with very scanty and limited Assets and Liabilities of the State.

“In line with the Governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability and transparency in Government, and to deepen the governance process, a Committee made up of respected sons and daughters from Edo State has to be constituted.

“The committee will be inaugurated at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, on Tuesday, 26th November, 2024, by 1pm prompt,” the statement noted.

James Ojo Alleh, the overall best graduating student of the University of Benin at the just-concluded 49th and 50th combined Convocation Ceremonies of the institution and a native of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area in Edo State, has been honoured with the “Trig Energy Academic Prize for Akoko-Edo Students.”

The Akoko-Edo Academic Prize is an initiative of Mr. Humphrey Teddy Adewumi, a native of Akoko-Edo and an alumnus of the university from the Department of Political Sciences, who is also the Chief Executive Officer of Trig Energy Ltd.

The award presentation took place on Friday during the convocation ceremony. Alleh, who graduated from Petroleum Engineering with a First Class, 4.98 CGPA, the highest in the history of UNIBEN, was honoured with the sum of N500,000 by Mr. Adewumi in recognition of his academic excellence.

Speaking at the Award ceremony, Mr. Adewumi lauded Alleh’s academic commitment which led to the record-breaking achievement at UNIBEN, noting, “your dedication has clearly paid-off, and we are more than happy to celebrate with you.”

Represented by his Personal Assistant (Political Matters), Ogunnubi Kingsley Princewill, Mr. Adewumi said the academic feat achieved by Alleh should be applauded by not just Akoko-Edo sons and daughters but all lovers of education across the country.

He, therefore, urged other students, especially those from Akoko-Edo extraction, to be inspired by the Alleh’s story as they go through the four walls of the university.

Those present at the Award ceremony held at the Ugbowo Campus of the University include the institution's Dean of Students' Affairs, Prof. Clement Ighodaro; and the awardee’s Dean, Faculty of Engineering, Prof. Emmanuel Ogujor.

Others were the Head of the awardee’s Department of Petroleum Engineering, Dr. Ikpomwonsa Ohenhen; Prof. E.O Oshomoh, Head, Department of Science Laboratory Technology and Engr. Salami David, both also from Akoko-Edo.

Trig Energy Ltd is an oil marketing company incorporated in Nigeria with its head office located in Lagos. Trig Energy is one of the aviation marketing companies in Nigeria offering aviation fuel services, with operations in the major commercial aviation centers in the country.

The Osasere Osifo Prize for Academic Excellence has honoured six (6) best graduating students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in the just-concluded 50th and 51st combined Convocation Ceremonies of the institution with N1 million.

The awardees include Ifeanyi Desmond Sorokwu, the overall best graduating student for the 2021/2022 academic session from Electrical/Electronics Engineering, with 4.96 CGPA and James Ojo Alleh, the overall best graduating student for the the 2022/2023 academic session from Petroleum Engineering, with a CGPA of 4.98. They were both awarded N250,000 each.

For the sponsor's Faculty, Physical Sciences, Miracle Okpaise Augustine, the overall best graduating student for the 2021/2022 academic session with 4.94 CGPA and Oghenero Faith Emumejakpo (Miss), 2022/2023 best graduating student with 4.90 CGPA — both from Industrial Chemistry — were awarded N150,000 each.

Similarly, for the sponsor’s Department, Physics, Emmanuel Etinosa Osewengie, 2021/2022 best graduating student with 4.31 CGPA and Oritsematosan Jeremiah Okotie, 2022/2023 best graduating student with 4.42 CGPA, were both awarded N100,000 each.

The Academic Excellence Prize is an initiative of Engr. Osasere Favour Osifo, a former President of the UNIBEN Students’ Union, who is currently the Vice President of the University of Benin Alumni Association, North America (UBAANA), and also a member of the United States Airforce.

Speaking at the award ceremony held at the University of Benin on Friday, Engr. Osifo Congratulated the awardees for their distinguished academic achievement and accomplishment, noting, “you have all proven that quality is never an accident, but the result of intelligent effort and your intelligent effort is what is being rewarded today.”

“As a proud alumnus of this great institution, it gives me great joy to acknowledge your hard work, dedication, and commitment that have led to this remarkable milestone in your life and academic sojourn at the prestigious University of Benin. Your perseverance and unwavering determination have clearly paid-off, and it is truly inspiring to witness your success.”

Engr. Osifo, who was represented by Comrade Uyi Valentine, a former Senior Special Assistant to the Edo State Governor and Comrade Ogochukwu Isioma, a journalist and publisher of Campus Gist, noted that in today’s society where celebrating mediocrity and shunning academic excellence is fast becoming a norm, the Academic Prize came on board to change the narrative.

“Now in its third Convocation year, the Osifo Osasere Prize for Academic Excellence hopes to inspire University of Benin students to make excellence their cardinal objective as they go through the four walls of the university,” he said.

“Today, your accomplishment serves as a testament to your exceptional capabilities. Your passion have set you apart, and it is no surprise that you have achieved such a significant milestone. Your dedication and efforts are a shining example to others, and I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in your future endeavors.

“Your achievement not only brings pride and joy to yourself but also serves as an inspiration to those around you. You have proven that hard work, perseverance, and a positive mindset can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

“As you celebrate this significant achievement, take a moment to reflect on the journey that has
brought you here. Remember the challenges you overcame, the sacrifices you made, and the support you received along the way, cherish this moment, as it is a testament to your dedication and unwavering spirit.

“Once again, congratulations on your remarkable accomplishment! May this achievement be the stepping stone to even greater success and fulfillment in all your future endeavors. We are confident that this award is the beginning of every good thing to come your way, and more than excited to witness the continued growth and achievements in your life,” Engr. Osifo concluded.

Those present at the Award ceremony include the institution's Dean of Students, Prof. Clement Ighodaro; Dean of Engineering, Prof. Emmanuel Ogujor; Dean of Physical Sciences, Prof. Emmanuel Aiyohuyin; Head of Department of Petroleum Engineering, Dr. Ikpomwonsa Ohenhen; Head of Department of Electrical/Electronics Engineering, Prof. Kingsley Ogbeide and Engr. Salami David from the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Life Sciences.

Edo state Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions.

In the same vein, the Governor has also approved the disengagement of the Management Staff of Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Benin City with immediate effect.

Both approvals were conveyed in a “Government Special Announcement” dated November 20, 2024 and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq.

“It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all State owned Tertiary Institutions in Edo State with immediate effect.

“Accordingly, all affected members of the Governing Councils of all State owned Tertiary Institutions are to handover all Government properties in their possession to their respective Heads of the Institutions.

“It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the disengagement of the Management Staff of Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Benin City with immediate effect.

“In view of the above, the Management Staff of the aforementioned hospitals are to handover all Government properties in their possession to the most senior officer in their various Institutions,” the statement read.

•as Edo Assembly clears Health Commissioner Nominee

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Monday signed the revised Appropriation Bill of N485.63 billion into law.

The state assembly had on resumption of plenary Monday, approved the N485.63 billion as 2024 revised supplementary budget.

The approval is sequel to the request for the passage of the 2024 budget contained in a letter dated 13th November from Governor Okpebholo, addressed to the house.

The budget, as approved by the Edo Assembly is divided into N202.65 billion for recurrent expenditures and N282.99 billion for capital projects.

In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo commended the lawmakers for their swift action in passing the Bill, which he believes will set the tone for transformative governance.

He stated: “I want to thank you for your cooperation and the speedy passage of this bill. With this momentum, Edo State is set to experience remarkable development. I see a team of dedicated individuals ready to work for the betterment of our state.”

Speaker of the house, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, alongside other lawmakers, attended the signing ceremony held at the Council Chamber, Government House.

Agbebaku emphasised the legislature’s commitment to supporting the administration’s vision and ensuring continuity in government.

He noted: “The 8th Assembly expedited the passage of this appropriation law to allow the new administration to commence its projects without delay. Government is a continuum, and we are committed to fostering development for the people of Edo State.”

The Bill, initially presented on November 13, 2024, underwent accelerated deliberations, underscoring the collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government.

Edo Assembly clears Commissioner for Health Nominee

Also, at Monday’s plenary, the House confirmed Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole as commissioner for Health, following the house consideration of the report of the committee on Rules business and Government House in a letter from Governor Okpebholo on Wednesday containing the name of the nominee.

Dr. Oshiomhole’s academic journey began at St. Anne’s Primary School, followed by Command Secondary School, where he later pursued higher education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS).

He enrolled at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, where he obtained a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH, majoring in Environmental Health, Toxicology, and Disaster Management).

His academic pursuits continued at Harvard University, Boston, where he underwent postgraduate training in Clinical Research and at Queen Mary University, London, where he studied Gastroenterology.

The new Health Commissioner is the first son of Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State and senator representing Edo North in the National Assembly.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers in the State’s public service.

The suspension was contained in a notice on Monday issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, through the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua.

It reads, “All financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately, pending a review the Review Committee, established by the Governor, submits its report.

“All Accounting Officers, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are expected to take note and comply strictly with this directive.”

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the appointment of six more persons to serve in various capacities in his government.

Those appointed include Dr. Emmanuel Paddy lyamu as the Executive Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB); Lucky Enehita-Inegbenehi as the Managing Director of the State Waste Management Board; and CP Friday Ibadin, Rtd, State Corps Commander, Edo State Security Corps Governance.

Others are Stainless M.I. Ijeghede as the Managing Director, Edo State Traffic Management Agency, (EDSTMA); Sir (Dr.) Lucky Eseigbe, as Managing Director, Edo State Public Building and Maintenance Agency; and Engr. Emmanuel Ehidiamen Okoebor, as Hon. Commissioner of Finance-designate.

In a statement on Friday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, made available to newsmen in Benin City, he said the six appointments take effect from November 15, 2024.

Dr. Iyamu holds a Bachelor of Science and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Benin. He is also a holder of Doctor of Science in Petroleum Resources from the European American University.

Iyamu is a strategic leader and renowned expert in security, business administration, human resources. An alumnus of Oxford University (Said Business School), he holds a Professional Doctorate in Leadership and Management from City University of Paris.

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Iyamu has excelled across the banking, oil, and gas sectors, significantly improving corporate security and crisis management operations.

Until his appointment, Dr. Iyamu was the Chief Executive Oficer of Gabbem Integrated Services Lid, a leading company specialized in marine equipment and services.

Similarly, the second appointee Enehita-Inegbenehi obtained his B.Sc. (Human Resource d M.Sc. in Strategic Leadership and Governance from the University of Cape Coast respectively.

He is a dynamic and result-oriented professional, with an extensive experience in leadership and human resource management. He has proven abilities to analyze complex issues, develop effective strategies and guide teams towards success while fostering professional growth.

Inegbenehi was the Chief Executive Officer of JEI Visions Iron Metals, JEI Visions Service Apartments as well as JEI Visions Cleaning Services.

The third appointee CP Ibadan worked and retired from the Nigeria Police after a meritorious 35 years of service. He was one of the 11 officers seconded to the United Nations Mission in Kosovo and was a regional officer in the Headquarters.

He has attended various security courses in Egypt, France, USA among others. CP Friday Obadin holds the Bachelor Degrees in Philosophy and Law, respectively and was later called to the Nigerian Bar in the year 2007.

He is a member of Afican centre from crime prevention research studies, Cairo, Egypt. He is happily married with children.

The fourth appointee ljeghede holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He had a successful career in the Petroleum Industry, having worked and held sensitive positions, particularly in the Well Engineering and Safety Department in Shell Petroleum Development Company Nigeria Ltd.

He retired from the Service of Shell after a meritorious service.

The fifth appointee Eseigbe obtained his LL.B and LL.M at the Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma respectively. Until this appointment, Lucky Eseigbe Esq, was a Legislative Aide/Legal Adviser/Consultant to notable Honourable Members of the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria from year 2007 to November 2024.

The sixth appointee Okoebor was born on October 21, 1972. He had his first degree in Civil Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Benin, Benin City respectively.

Engr. Okoebor, MBA has over 25 years of experience in the Banking Sector, including roles at the Standard Trust and United Bank of Africa (UBA).

He rose through the ranks in the Banking Industry to the position of Assistant General Manager (AGM) and is currently Regional Manager, United Bank of Africa (UBA) overseeing 15 Business Offices.

Engr. Emmanuel Ehidiamen Okoebor MBA is also a member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers and a registered member of COREN.

The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as his Chief of Staff.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, on Friday, he said the appointment “takes immediate effect.”

Itua quoted the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Umar Ikhilor as saying Audu’s appointment will help Governor Okpebholo in driving meaningful reforms in the State.

“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly the good people of Edo State, that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has approved the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as his Chief of Staff. The appointment takes immediate effect,” the statement noted.

Born 18th August 1969, Audu obtained an HND from Auchi Polytechnic in 1994, a PGD in Business Administration from Benson Idahosa University in 2011 and an M.Sc in Intelligence and Global Security from Baze University, Abuja in 2024.

Hon. Audu was an elected Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Council from 2004 to 2010. He was elected member Edo State House of Assembly (Etsako West Constituency 1) from 2015 to 2023.

He was the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress to Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu in the 2020 Edo State Governorship elections.