₦airaland Forum

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Oshiomhole’s Emergence: APC Now Turbo-Charged To Return Buhari As President – Obaseki

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that the emergence of the immediate past governor of the state, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), will turbo-charge the party and its various machineries to return President Muhammadu Buhari as President come next February.

Governor Obaseki, who said this at the first elective National Convention of the APC in Abuja at the weekend, stressed that Comrade Oshiomhole’s vibrancy and experience as a negotiator, would prove instrumental in consolidating on the gains of the party in the country.

According to Obaseki, “The APC is a collection of several parties and groups that came together to form a government. Haven formed a government, we now go to the next stage of consolidating our political hold. The right person to do that at this point in time is someone who has the kind of experience like Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.”

He continued, “The meaning of that is that we have a turbo-charged party that will lead us to elections and ensure that APC remains the leading party in Nigeria.

“But more importantly, APC is now poised to change the life of Nigerians for good. This is going to turbo-charge the party; it will renew the structure and organs of the party for elections."

On his expectations for the new chairman, he said, “I expect that as soon as comrade gets into office early next week, we are going to have a process of healing and reconciliation of aggrieved parties. But more importantly, we are going to be redefining a direction which will ensure that our president is re-elected next February.”

Comrade Oshiomhole emerged National Chairman of the APC after other aspirants for the position stepped down before the elections at the APC National Convention. He was governor for two-terms in Edo State, during which time, experts believe, he prepared the ground for the transformation of the state that Governor Godwin Obaseki administration is building on.

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R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki; wife of the National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Mrs Lara Oshiomhole; National Chairman of APC, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole; and the Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, at the APC National Convention in Abuja at the weekend.

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....commends Odigie-Oyegun for purposeful leadership

The Edo Sate Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has hailed the election of his predecessor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking after Oshiomhole was announced the elected National chairman of the APC at the party's National Convention in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on Saturday, Obaseki noted that "the former governor's emergence is an acknowledgement of his people-centered leadership and his commitment to the advancement of the nation."

Obaseki who also congratulated other elected officials of the party, said, "We are very proud of Comrade Oshiomhole's emergence as the National Chairman of our great party, the APC. He is adequately equipped to foster unity and provide a new direction for the party, as we move closer to the general elections in 2019."

He saluted the immediate past National Chairman of the party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, for providing purposive leadership that brought the APC to global reckon after defeating the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general elections.

The Governor described Chief Odigie-Oyegun as a worthy leader with honour.

"Chief John Odigie-Oyegun’s impressive rise to prominence was the product of a combination of hard work, humility and faith in God.

"From his humble background, he was taught the inestimable value of hard work, integrity and a good name.

"In the federal civil service, Chief Odigie-Oyegun distinguished himself and was propelled to the enviable position of a federal permanent secretary."

According to Obaseki, "Chief Odigie-Oyegun's forthrightness, civility and decorousness garnered from his impressive years of service to our great country in the civil service, marked him out for higher national call to serve our country after his retirement from the federal civil service.

"These sterling qualities earned him the confidence of Edo people, when they turned out in their numbers to entrust him with their mandate as the first Governor of Edo State, in the aborted third Republic, from 1992-1993.

"As a loyal and dedicated party man, his leadership qualities earned him the position of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and under his leadership, the APC grew into the largest party in Nigeria and displaced the then ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from power at the center, through popular vote in the 2015 presidential election."

Recalling the achievements of the former APC National Chairman, Obaseki noted: "In particular, the 2015 presidential elections marked a turning point in the political history of our great country and reset the destinies of over 180 million Nigerians for greatness.

"It was the first time since the return of democracy in 1999, that an opposition party would obliterate a "behemoth" ruling party.

"Chief Odigie-Oyegun’s sagacity and wealth of experience helped in stabilising our great party during our most trying moments, when members of the decimated opposition wished us doom.

"He is passing the baton of leadership of our great party, the APC, after successfully navigating the party out of troubled waters and making it stronger, stable and better prepared for the challenges of the future.

"Edo State is proud of this illustrious son for his immense contributions to the entrenchment of democracy in this country.

"History will forever adjudge Chief Odigie-Oyegun a worthy son of Edo State, one who elevated our politics and ushered in a new era of positive change and development for our great party and our country."

Oshiomhole's election at the well attended APC National Convention in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, followed the withdrawal of other aspirants from the chairmanship race.

Source: http://thebellng.com/obaseki-hails-oshiomholes-election-as-apc-national-chairman/

The Governor of Edo state, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has decried practices that exclude widows from socioeconomic activities in some societies.

Obaseki said this on the occasion of the International Widows' Day, celebrated by the United Nations on June 23, each year, lamented that "practices that stigmatise and exclude widows are obnoxious and fuel for poverty."

He added that "at a time world leaders are designing policies that engender inclusive growth, practices that discriminate against widows are anti-growth and development."

He noted that "widows, like any other class of people, should have equal access to land and empowerment programmes to uplift them to any social or economic heights to which, they aspire."

The governor assured that "the Edo State government will continue to mainstream all classes of people in her developmental programmes and policies, to give everyone equal opportunity and fair chance to attain greatness."

He saluted the United Nations Women for advancing the affairs of widows and urged world leaders to pay more than the usual attention to their rights and entitlements.

According to the United Nations, "in many countries, widowhood is stigmatised and seen as a source of shame. Widows are thought to be cursed in some cultures and are even associated with witchcraft. Such misconceptions can lead to widows being ostracised, abused and worse.

"The children of widows are often affected, both emotionally and economically. Widowed mothers, now supporting their families alone, are forced to withdraw children from school and to rely on their labour. Moreover, the daughters of widows may suffer multiple deprivations, increasing their vulnerability to abuse."

The global body notes that "The International Widows Day is an opportunity for action towards achieving full rights and recognition for widows – too long invisible, uncounted and ignored."

It added that "A dearth of reliable hard data remains one of the major obstacles to developing the policies and programmes to address the poverty, violence and discrimination suffered by widows," and called for more research and statistics disaggregated by marital status, sex and age, in order to help reveal the incidence of widow abuse and illustrate the situation of widows."

...as experts urge varsities, others on creative funding options

In line with Governor Godwin Obaseki’s vision for innovative solutions at state-run tertiary institutions, the Edo State Institute of Management, also known as, Edo Polytechnic Usen in partnership with the Obafemi Awolowo University, has trained researchers drawn from different parts of Edo State and beyond, on grantsmanship to attract funding for impact research, boost relevance and increase output.

Speaking at the 2-day workshop on grantsmanship and academic publishing, Rector, Edo Polytechnic Usen, Prof. Abiodun Falodun, said that it was imperative for researchers to possess skills in grantsmanship because of the growing need to expand funding options at tertiary institutions.

He said the school collaborated with experts from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, on the 2-day workshop to address perennial challenges with academic publishing and demystify the art of grantsmanship. Those in attendance include undergraduate programme students, lecturers, postgraduate students, research fellows, among others.

He said that a number of institutions within and outside Nigeria are ready, willing and looking for qualitative research proposals to finance, urging scholars in tertiary institutions to team up and develop bankable research proposals that will positively impact society.

He thanked Governor Godwin Obaseki for the support to the institution and the commitment to place the institute on the global map, adding, “the place of government support cannot be overemphasised. As we get this support, we are also committed to ensuring that we explore more options to boost impact.”

Some of the facilitators include Prof. Abiodun O. Ogundaini and Dr. Omolaja Oshoniyi from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife

Prof. Ogundaini noted that institutions often lack the financial capacity to support research activities, as not many of them can meet the research funding need of staff members.

Dr. Oshoniyi cautioned against plagiarism, noting, “Researchers desirous of funding must be conscious of originality and integrity of their work. Institutions as well as individuals must know that there are penalties and consequences for plagiarism. Hence, they should institute and observe plagiarism policies.”

The participants were tutored on the fundamentals of persuasive proposal for funding, starting from abstract through the structure of proposals, methodology, budget and justification, to dissemination and project management.

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A cross section of participants at the 2-day workshop on grantsmanship and academic publishing organised by Edo State Polytechnic Usen, held at the school’s ICT center, in Edo State.

Digital Village: Obaseki Lauds ATC Nigeria, Says Facility Will Equip Edo Youth With On-Demand Skills

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commended the American Tower Company (ATC) Nigeria, for the laudable initiative in supporting the state government’s skills development programme for youth with the setting up of a Digital Skills Village.

Conveying the governor's commendation, the Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr Crusoe Osagie, said that the company was keying into the new thinking of the state government in equipping youths with on-demand skills for success at the workplace and contribute to solving everyday problems with technology.

According to him, Digital Skills Village would boost the state government’s skills acquisition and development programmes for youth in the state.

He urged other private investors in the state to support the state government’s initiative to improve human capital by focusing on skills development for youths.

He assured that the Digital Skills Village Project, sited at Igbesamwan Street in Benin City, would be put to effective use, as beneficiaries would be drawn from the state.

Earlier at the handing over ceremony, Chief Executive Officer of the contracting firm that handled the project for ATC Nigeria, PEES Electrical Ltd, Peter Balogun, said the Digital Skills Village Project was designed to complement the state’s innovation hub commissioned by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

Balogun noted that the facility would serve as a training centre for youths who are being trained by the state government, on the use of digital skills to provide solutions to daily challenges.

Chief Operating Officer and Project Manager, PEES Electrical Ltd, Areola Bolurinwa, said the centre which was built by ATC Nigeria, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) would assist the state government to capture more youths on its training programmes on the use of Information and Communication Technology.

Bolurinwa noted that the facility will serve as ground for elementary training for youths who are beneficiaries of the state government skills acquisition programme, as beneficiaries who complete their training at the centre would proceed to the innovation hub at Institute of Continuing Education, ICE for further training.

The ATC has also built similar digital skills training centres in Ekpoma and Irrua in Edo State.

Obaseki Orders Closure Of All Dilapidated Schools, Relocates Pupils, Teachers Of Holy Aruosa Primary School To Agbado

..begins investigation into why initial relocation order was ignored

The Edo State Governor has ordered the shutdown of all primary and secondary schools with dilapidated structures in the state, to pave way for reconstruction work.

Specifically, pupils and teachers of Holy Aruosa Primary School in Benin City, have been relocated to nearby Agbado Primary School.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr Crusoe Osagie, said the decision to relocate pupils of Holy Aruosa Primary School, was informed by the shocking reports that despite an earlier relocation order given by the state government, teachers in Holy Aruosa Primary School ignored the order and went about their activities in dilapidated structures.

“All such schools, with dilapidated structures have been shutdown with immediate effect. Students and pupils in the affected schools are hereby relocated to other schools that will be announced soon,” the governor’s aide said.

He explained that “the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., visited Holy Aruosa Primary School as early as 7: A. M. on Thursday, to announce the state government's decision.

“The state government has ordered an investigation to ascertain why the initial relocation order of the pupils with their teachers was not enforced.”

According to Osagie, “One of the allegations being investigated is the suspicion that some teachers, who are refusing to be transferred out of the school, selfishly kept those kids in the school under unsafe condition.”

On the ongoing reform in the state’s education sector, Osagie said that “on assumption of office in November 2016, Governor Godwin Obaseki ordered an inventory of facilities and the enumeration of primary and secondary schools in the state.

“After the census, the schools were categorised into three: those in grade A are in good condition; those in B need little intervention and schools in grade C require total renovation.

“It is obvious that Holy Aruosa Primary School and Osula Primary School, among others, fell in the third category and require urgent attention. The worst of them like Holy Aruosa were shut down.”

He maintained that, “As is the culture of this administration, groundwork has already begun for this renovation process to commence, as only few months ago bid rounds were held for the rehabilitation of some of these schools.

“The renovation work is expected to cover 1,200 public schools in the state, with the first batch of 230 schools captured in the pilot phase of the exercise.”

He lamented that despite the huge investment in remodelling most of the schools by the Adams Oshiomhole-led administration, "some of them have been vandalised, with facilities looted by hoodlums."

To correct this anomaly, the governor spokesman said the Obaseki administration has made commitment to partner communities hosting government projects such as schools and hospitals to ensure they are protected from vandals.

“We assure that work will soon commence at these schools within Benin metropolis and other parts of the state, and call on communities to protect the structures as soon as they're built.

“The state government will expedite action on the renovation work to ensure that our pupils learn in conducive environment, even as we roll out the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (Edo BEST) programme to some of these schools in coming weeks” Osagie added.

Source: http://thebellng.com/obaseki-orders-closure-of-all-dilapidated-schools-relocates-pupils-teachers/

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left); and the Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian; during the courtesy visit by the Ambassador, to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

…lauds Obaseki’s industrialisation drive, awards scholarship to 47 Edo indigenes

The Chinese government has pledged to deepen its growing relationship with the Edo State government through direct investment and other initiatives to leverage on the business friendly environment that has been created by the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in the state.

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian, made the pledge during a visit to the Edo State governor, at Government House, Benin City, the state capital.

Ambassador Pingjian expressed his delight at the Edo State government’s steady progress in diversifying her economy through industrialisation and commended the Obaseki administration for opening its doors to Chinese investors.

He disclosed that he had been looking forward to visiting Edo State following the positive feedbacks from Chinese investors that have been operating in the state.

Earlier this month, the Edo State government disclosed a $500 million auto assembly plant deal with Chinese investors. The auto assembly plant deal followed similar investments in the Benin Industrial Park, the Benin River Port project in Gelegele by Chinese companies, which will add to the existing ceramic and steel companies owned by Chinese investors.

"My impression of the state is that this is one state that welcomes investors. The Edo State government under Governor Godwin Obaseki has shown that Chinese companies have a place here,” he said.

The ambassador announced the award of scholarship to 47 brilliant students of Edo origin, to mark the 47 years of diplomatic relations with Nigeria.

The scholarship, which he christened October 1st scholarship, derived its name from the day both Nigeria and China got their independence.

"We want to remind our students that China and Nigeria share so many things in common, that are responsible for the strong bond between us,” he said.

According to the Chinese Ambassador, the visit of President Muhammadu Buhari to China in April 2016, expanded the scope of the relationship between Nigeria and China that paved the way for a more robust relationship between both countries, adding that his country is interested in promoting the cooperation programme between both countries.

"By September a Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCA) will be held in Beijing, China, and it will be a major opportunity to boost our cooperation at all levels while in November, China is going to hold the first ever China international import export exposition in Shanghai," the ambassador said.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, assured his guests that his administration will continue to leverage on its existing relationship with China which has given birth to several deals and commitments to invest in developmental projects in the state.

"We have good relationship with our Chinese brothers in Edo State particularly the private Chinese investors. There are over five Chinese companies in the state that have invested over 100 million dollars in various sectors.”

Obaseki said he was optimistic about the realisation of the Benin River Port after sealing a deal with Chinese Harbour Engineering Company to develop the port.

“We are working hard on the Benin River Port project which will be one of the projects that the President will highlight during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCA) conference in Beijing, China.”

He expressed his appreciation to the Chinese Ambassador for awarding scholarship to 47 Edo State students and for pledging to sustain the scholarship programme.

The governor advised the Ambassador on the need for a Chinese school in the state where people will be able to study Chinese language, her arts and culture.

Source: http://thebellng.com/obaseki-reforms-chinese-ambassador-projects-boom-in-growing-edo-china-relations/

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left); Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Zhou Pingjian (2nd right); and other members of the Chinese delegation, during a courtesy visit to the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

Education Reform: After transparent Bid Round, Edo Govt. Set To Commence Reconstruction Of Schools

...tasks communities to protect renovated schools

After a successful bid round for the renovation/repairs of schools in Edo State, the state government is set to commence the reconstruction of dilapidated school structures as part of ongoing reforms in the education sector.

The Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Basic Education/ Acting Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, who made the submission in a chat with Journalists, said that with the bid round for renovations of 230 schools now completed, the government would prioritise certified contractors with good track record for executing durable projects.

She noted that the renovation work, which includes various levels of repairs and/or overhaul in selected schools, will pave way for a conducive learning environment for primary and secondary school pupils.

On plans to transform the education sector, she said, “on assumption of office in November 2016, Governor Obaseki ordered an inventory of facilities and the enumeration of the number of primary schools in the state. The schools were categorised into three. Those in grade A are in good condition, those in B need little intervention and schools in grade C require total renovation.”

"For the first time we have a convergence of policy and practice. With Governor Obaseki's reform in the sector, SUBEB has been restructured. The Board is no longer just about awarding contracts, infact, we are also focusing on learning outcomes, having a synergy between the learning environment and what is learnt."

Noting that there was a need for communities to join forces to protect the schools when they have been renovated, she said, “during ex-governor Adams Oshiomhole’s administration, many schools were repaired, but sadly so many of them have been vandalised and the facilities looted by hoodlums.”

The Acting SUBEB chairman emphasised that the governor is resolute about securing the understanding and support of communities where schools are located to ensure the schools are not vandalised after the remodeling.

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...seeks new solutions to power generation, distribution challenges

Sequel to its launch only last week, the Edo Innovates tech cluster has concluded modalities for The Hack Edo Series, a multi-dimensional initiative to identify and incubate the best ideas that tackle problems of power generation and distribution faced by individuals, businesses and the digital ecosystem, with a N3.5 million prize money.

In a statement by Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Skills Development and Jobs Creation, Mrs. Ukinebo Dare, said that The Hack Edo Series which is being organised in partnership with Impact Hub and Siemens Nigeria, will leverage innovation technology to identify solutions in the area of power generation, adding that N3.5 million in cash prizes will be won by the best ideas.

She said starts-ups or groups with ideas can apply on the Edojobs website, as deadline for application is on June 30.

According to her, “Through a series of practical Hackathons, the Hack Edo series aims to equip young Nigerian innovators with the skills necessary to make impact in their various communities.”

She said the series will help increase the number of individuals taking action on social and economic issues, build a collaborative community that tackles issues and identify the best ideas that will be supported through the incubation phase.

She said the hackathons will catalyse high-growth startups within Edo State, support development of ventures from ideation to commercialization and promote job creation and economic development, adding, “this will drive and ensure the increased adoption of local technology by government, corporates and development agencies across Edo state and Nigeria, strengthen and raise the standard of startups in the region and deliver positive social impact returns to communities and people across the region.”

Recall that the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, alongside Governor Godwin Obaseki, last week, launched the South-South Innovation Hub in the state, kicking off activities for the state’s fledging tech ecosystem at the remodeled Institute of Continuing Education (ICE).

The state government has partnered with over 25 technology firms in setting up the facility, which will serve as a one-stop shop for training, incubation, acceleration for start-ups and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the state.

Source: http://thebellng.com/edo-innovation-hub-partners-siemens-on-the-hack-edo-series-offers-n3-5m-prize/

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Cross section of youths at one of the labs in Edo Innovation Hub, recently launched by Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, at the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), Benin City, Edo State.

Innovation Hub: Edo Youths Hail Osinbajo, Obaseki For Facilities, Thrilled By Training, Skills Acquisition Prospects

Youths in Edo State have hailed Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo for the initiative in setting up the South-South Innovation Hub and Edo Innovates, the two facilities launched recently at the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), in Benin City, as a platform for youths to get trained and proffer digital solutions to everyday problem.

Recall that the Vice President during his two-day visit to the state, launched the South-South Innovation Hub and performed groundbreaking of the 1800-Emotan Gardens project.

A number of the youths at the launch expressed appreciation to the governor and the Vice President for setting up the hub, noting that it was gratifying to know that youths in the state would now have equal opportunity as their colleagues elsewhere to get trained and be engaged in a vibrant digital ecosystem that is supported by the state and federal government.

Mr. Sunday Olufemi, from Akoko Edo Local Government Area of the state, said that he was most excited about the one-stop shop for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) clinic, where young people can now have access to relevant federal government agencies to ease business registration, product certification, and access to finance and mentoring.

According to him, “I can confidently say that this is the best thing to have happened to youths in Edo State. Now, we no longer have to go to Lagos before we get training to become full-fledged start-ups. The expertise and support structures are now available for us in Edo State.”

Mr. Fred Omoregie, an undergraduate at the University of Benin (UNIBEN), said the hub is a dream come true to many tech-savvy young residents in the state, noting that they now have a viable, well-structured facility to express themselves.

He said, “I believe this will revolutionalise this state. Young people have been looking for where to express themselves for years but didn’t have such a facility that can give them a sense of direction. With this, Engineering, Computer Science graduates and others from different disciplines can now have a go at tech solutions to problems.”

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Cross section of youths at one of the labs in Edo Innovates, which houses the South-South Innovation Hub, at Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), Benin City, Edo State, during the launch of the hub by Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

Obaseki’s Affordable Housing Project: Edo, Only State In Niger Delta With No Disturbances On Project Site - MIXTA Africa

…Not less than 10000 jobs will be created - EDPA

As work progresses on the 1800 housing-unit Emotan Garden project, Project Manager, MIXTA Africa, Mr. Livinus Onunaku, has said that Edo is the only state in the Niger Delta, where they have had no record of disturbances on the project site.

Onunaku, who said this in an interview with journalists, noted “This is the first time we are working in a state where the governor has interacted with people like us. He expresses his joy and happiness at what we are doing and we feel satisfied working in Edo State. The first thing I told the governor when he came was that this is the first Niger Delta state, where we work and nobody has come to the site to disturb us. He said nobody can do that in Edo State we are happy working freely in Edo State.”

He said the firm was attracted to Edo State because the governor Godwin Obaseki administration has investment friendly policies that guarantee return on investment for investors.

“We also observed how several investors are visiting the state to partner with the administration with testimonies on their investment. We are here to partner with the governor to improve the economic activities in the state.

Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Omo said that the project will be completed in three years, but that the first phase, consisting of 200 units, will be ready next year, when people will be able to live in the property.

According to her, “The estate is designed to house semi-detached two-bed room and three-bedroom apartments. We have blocks of flat and terraces. There are service plots; on these, people can build by themselves in line with the agreed designs. With the service plots, once people buy, they can start building on it. This arrangement would quicken the overall completion plan.

On the design of the estate, she said, “For the service plots, there is a guide which covers density, which is number of people to live in the estate. The guide also provides for homogeneity, which shows that the estate is planned. We will not allow people to put up block of flat in an area considered as low density. Since it is a low-density plot, people can only be allowed to construct a one unit, or semi-detached unit with two families.

“If it is a high density, then people will be allowed to build blocks of flats, if it a medium density, it will be terraces. We are working with the Ministry of Physical planning and Urban Development, on the agreed plan so that when we are selling the plot, we will have an idea of what the people want to construct on the plot.

It is expected that not less than 10000 jobs will be created by the project. She said, “We are expecting over 500 to 600 persons to be engaged on site. Other indirect jobs would also be created. If we buy more tiles, windows, doors, and other materials required for the project from the local manufacturers, they will be employing more people as they expect to improve their production capacity. From all of these, between 10000 to 20000 jobs would be created.”

On the economic implications, she said, “A whole value-chain is being activated by this project. The plan of the governor was to make Edo State, a destination of choice for business, leveraging on the strategic location of the state. One cannot go to the north, east or west, without passing through the state at some point, whether by air, or by road, our plan is for people to pass and stay and do their business.”

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R-L: The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun; Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency, (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Omo; and Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, in one of the buildings during the groundbreaking ceremony of the 1800-unit Emotan Gardens project, in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area, in Edo State.

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...lauds Obaseki's reenactment of Ogbemudia's devt’al strides

The Vice president, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has said that Edo State in the last decade, has retained her status as a reference point with regard to good governance in the country.

Osinbajo gave the commendation at a State Dinner held in his honour at the Edo Government House in Benin City, as part of his 2-day visit to the state.

He expressed satisfaction with the efforts of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led adminstration in reenacting the developmental strides recorded in the administration of the late Dr. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia.

The Vice President assured of the federal government's readiness to support Edo State in her effort to bring development to the people.

He said the various projects which informed his visit to the state, would boost the Edo economy, especially the federal government's South-South Innovation Hub.

In his remark, Obaseki expressed his appreciation to the Vice President for his continued support for the state, noting that the several initiatives of the Office of the Vice President have provided jobs for Edo youths.

"The N-Power and N-Build programmes have remained major sources of encouragement for the state in her journey to greatness," the governor said.

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Phillip Shaibu, solicited for more support from the federal government to enable the state government benefit more from the initiatives of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration.

Obaseki at the dinner, announced full scholarship to Miss Obakpolor Esosa, a Senior Secondary School 1 student of Idia College, in Benin City, due to the depth of her presentation on the Menace of Human Trafficking.

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Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (4th right); Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (3rd right); wife of the Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki (2nd right); Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu (4th left); wife of the deputy governor, Mrs. Maryann Shaibu (3rd left); National Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun (right); former Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (second left), and wife of the former governor, Mrs. Lara Oshiomhole, at the Dinner organised by Edo State Government in honour of the Vice President, in Government House, Benin City.

Obaseki Decries Vandalisation, Defacement Of infrastructures, Orders Removal Of Substandard, Unauthorised Projects

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has decried the defacement and destruction of the state government’s infrastructural projects across the state and has ordered the immediate removal of substandard and unauthorised road furniture and similar projects, on roads and other projects across the state.

Obaseki gave the order after the state's weekly Executive Council meeting, in Government House, Benin City.

“It is not right to destroy roads, vandalise drainage system without government approval and erect substandard electricity poles that are either abandoned mid-way or lack sustainable maintenance plan and pose safety risk,” he added.

“The state is littered with substandard projects that disrupt the infrastructure master plan and violate laid down rules for such projects.

“The chaotic and indiscriminate execution of substandard and unapproved projects, which are not known to state government agencies and other tiers of government, is unacceptable. This ugly trend must stop,” the governor said.

He explained that “the decision became necessary in order to streamline project execution across the state and eliminate the chaotic situation we are currently having.

“We have a template for the wide array of developmental projects which are being implemented in every ward in the state and anyone who is executing any project in any part of the state should seek approval from the relevant government agencies.”

He noted that several projects have been lined up for different parts of the state by his administration, and said that checks with the agencies of government would avail anyone embarking on a project, the insight into the plans of the state government for such areas, and the necessary approvals given.

According to him, "The growing trend of executing projects without recourse to the agencies of government that give approvals and licences for such projects, in line with laid down rules is worrisome and must stop.”

“The right thing to do is to run your projects through officials of government saddled with the task to give approvals for such projects and secure the necessary approvals.

“Currently, consultation has reached advanced stage to have a dedicated electricity line that will feed government hospitals, the state secretariat complex and other government offices, to ensure regular power supply in those offices. You cannot disrupt such a plan with a project that the approving agencies are not aware of, and have not approved," Obaseki stressed.

VP Osinbajo's Visit: EDPA-MIXTA Africa Intensify Work On 1800-Unit Emotan Gardens Project

As activities rev up for the hosting of the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, on a two-day visit, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), and MIXTA Africa, are intensifying work on the development of the 1800-unit Emotan Gardens.

Executive Chairman, EDPA, Isoken Omo, in a chat with journalists during a tour of the site, said that the partnership with MIXTA Africa has been fruitful and the response to the development of the affordable housing units by residents in the state and those in the diaspora have been tremendous.

She said that work on the estate in preparation for the Vice President’s visit has reached advanced stage and all is set for the August visitor.

According to her, “We are happy that the Vice President is coming to commission this landmark project. This project holds a lot of history for the state. It is the first state government housing project in the state after 16 years.

“Our partner, MIXTA Africa, has been very supportive and we are working round the clock to ensure that the project site is ready for the ground-breaking ceremony,

Noting that some units will be ready for the Vice President’s visit, she said, “We are committed to this project and want to assure the people that we will deliver on our promises. The project is going to be a major pull for residents and those in the Diaspora to invest in bespoke real estate in Benin.

We are sourcing materials for this project within the state, which is quite remarkable, as this means that the building will be quite affordable at the end of the day.

“We assure that some level of structure would be on ground for the ceremony by the Vice President. This is to show how serious the state government and MIXTA Africa are to deliver on the project.”

Head, Sales and Marketing, MIXTA Africa, Korede Lawrence-Salu, said MIXTA Africa is impressed with the partnership, and promised that it would work round the clock to deliver on the project, assuring on delivery of high quality, valuable housing stock.

According to him, “after we sealed the deal to construct the 1,800-unit project, we have been inundated with enquiries from those willing to have a stake. So we are confident about this project. We have recorded high interest, especially among Edo people in the diaspora too.”

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Ongoing house construction at the Emotan Gardens, being developed by the Godwin Obaseki-led administration through a joint venture partnership between Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and MIXTA-Africa, in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area of the state.

Chief MKO Abiola

June 12: Obaseki Hails Sacrifice Of Abiola, CSOs, Others, Lauds FG On Declaration

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has hailed the Federal Government’s decision to recognise the presumed winner of the 1993 presidential election, the late Chief Moshood Abiola, noting that the gesture restores hope in democratic ideals.

In a statement, the governor said that the declaration is a turning point in Nigeria’s history as it recognises the yearnings of Nigerians for democratic society, which the struggle of Chief MKO Abiola and other civil society organisations symbolizes.

According to him, “On behalf of the good people of Edo State, I salute the wisdom and courage of President Muhammadu Buhari, in recognising and declaring June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day to honour Chief Moshood Abiola, the presumed winner of the 1993 presidential elections.

“The president’s declaration is a watershed in our political history, an answer to the yearnings of millions of Nigerians and honour for the sacrifices of the actors, who fought tirelessly for the actualization of his mandate and the return of power to the people.

“I join millions of Nigerians to celebrate this day and wish all lovers of democracy a Happy Democracy Day.”

He expressed appreciation to the president for the step taken in recognising the import of the day and struggles of pro-democracy groups, noting, “The sacrifices made by actors in the polity to sustain the ideals of democracy is responsible for the growth and development we have today.”

The people's governor indeed!

Obaseki Will Curb Human Trafficking, Create Jobs With Edo Innovation Hub - Commissioner

Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Cooperatives and Employment, Hon. Emmanuel Usoh, has said that the Edo Innovation Hub which will be commissioned by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, was initiated by Governor Godwin Obaseki to upskill youths, stimulate tech-focused small businesses and curb human trafficking and illegal migration.

Usoh, who disclosed this to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, noted that the innovation hub will stimulate the thriving tech ecosystem in the state, as the state is collaborating with relevant agencies and organisations to establish standard and state-of-the-art hubs to enhance innovation and bridge the digital divide in the state.

He added that all is set for the launch of the hub, which will be done during the Vice President’s visit, noting that the collaboration between the Federal and Edo State governments was instrumental in the setting up the hub.

He said, “The hub will offer youths who are interested in travelling abroad for jobs, opportunities to acquire up-to-date skills in technology. The training programme will be as intense as obtainable in similar hubs across the world, as we are partnering with global companies in setting up the facility. International certifications will be obtainable at the hub.

While explaining that the necessary facilities and partnerships for the realisation of the hub’s mission are already in place, Usoh said “The centre will accommodate over 25 technology companies, including Google Cisco, Miscrosoft and Oracle. It would be used by the state government to address the crisis of unemployment.”

He explained, “The centre will offer youths unique opportunities to discover their talents in the use of technology and improve these skills and promote innovation.

He added that the innovation hub would also serve as a training facility for small business owners on how to leverage digital solutions to transform their businesses, noting, “Individuals and groups who own small businesses in the state and intend to transform their businesses in line with global standards can acquire innovative skills at the hub.”

According to him, “Edo State intends to become a case study in Nigeria on how public facilities can be transformed for effective use. This is why the governor refurbished the former Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) into an innovation hub. The world has become a global village, where technology is key in transforming the society for the better. That is the direction this government is going.”

On the fate of staff of the former ICE, Usoh said, “The staff who are interested in working at the innovation hub have been asked to apply and would be engaged.

Those whose skills are no longer required at the hub would be transferred to other government agencies where their services can fit in.”

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…inaugurates Uhunmwode devt committee today

…Orhionmwon devt committee to interface with govt, monitor projects

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the state government is in talks with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOPADEC) on the reconstruction of the Benin-Abraka Road.

Obaseki said this during a town hall meeting in Abudu, headquarters of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State, and disclosed that the “Design for the reconstruction of the Benin-Abraka Road, has been completed.

“As the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo visits the state next week, the state government will agree on a deal with the NDDC and EDSOPADEC on the reconstruction of the Benin-Abraka Road.”

He said the plan to reconstruct the road was to provide farmers in Orhionmwon Local Government Area with access road to move their farm produce from their farms to the market, adding that there are plans for the reconstruction of all old roads within the area.

According to Obaseki, “An 11-member ward-based development committee would be set-up in the area with representative from the traditional ruler and two youth and women representatives. It will include three other persons from the area to include a political leader from the governing All Progressives Congress (APC) and another member from the opposition parties.”

He said a similar committee will be inaugurated in Uhunmwode, today Thursday, noting that the committee in Orhionmwon will be inaugurated soon to interface with the state government on the development needs of the area and monitor ongoing projects to ensure quality and prompt delivery.

He explained that poverty and lack of education account for the high rate of human trafficking and illegal migration in the area, noting that efforts are being made to change the narrative through ongoing reforms in basic education, healthcare, and reconstruction of old roads to revive economic activities.

Obaseki urged the people to actively participate in development initiatives at the community level and assist government succeed in her drive to develop the area.

The Enogie of Evbuobanosa, His Royal Highness, Prof. Gregory Akenzua, who expressed appreciation to the governor for the visit, noted, “The construction of the Abudu bridge linking it with the southern part of the council is commendable. This would assist in opening the area to more economic activities and development.”

He also lauded the governor for the steps being taken to reposition the College of Education in Abudu.

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L-R: Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Political Matters, Chief Osaro Idah; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Governor Godwin Obaseki; Secretary, Edo State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC); Lawrence Okah; and Member, House of Representatives representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency, Hon. Patrick Aisowieren, during a town hall meeting in Abudu, headquarters of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State.