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Preparation In Top Gear As VP Osinbajo Visits Edo, To Kick-Start Tech Hub, 1800 Housing Estate, Others

… sets for SIP Town Hall meeting, visit to Edo-Azura Plant

Contractors handling the construction of the Benin Technology Hub and the preliminary work at the site of the 1800 housing-unit Emotan Estate are working round the clock to deliver the projects on schedule, preparatory to the visit of Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo to Edo State.

The Vice President’s June 14th visit will see him commission the first Benin Innovation Hub, that will host over 25 Information and Communication Technology (ICT) companies for training of both young and old Edo people and residents on various ICT-based skills.

During an unscheduled visit to the remodeling work at the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), in Benin City, which is being converted to the tech hub, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, said he was pleased with the pace of work at the site.

“The facility will be commissioned by the Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and over 25 companies will use this innovation hub for different forms of training and certification,” the governor said.

He disclosed that his administration has received solicitation from major global technology companies that have indicated interest in the innovation hub.

Prof. Osinbajo will also perform the groundbreaking ceremony to kick-off the construction of 1800 housing-unit Emotan Estate, a joint venture project of the Edo State government and MIXTA Africa, located in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area.

The project according to Governor Obaseki, was conceived to boost the state’s housing stock and assured that on completion, the houses will be affordable.

Also on the itinerary of the Vice President is a facility visit to the 450 Mega Watts Edo-Azura Power project in the state, a project that has received positive reviews by the World Bank and its development partners as well as international and local actors in the power sector.

The Social Investment Programme (SIP) of the federal government will receive a boost during Prof. Osinbajo’s visit as the vice president would hold a town hall meeting with beneficiaries. He is also expected to host the South-South tech community, where five start-ups will be picked after they pitch their ideas to a team of investors.

He will also meet with the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) community in the state, as part of federal government's efforts at deepening the sector to boost economic growth.

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L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right); on inspection tour of the ongoing reconstruction work at Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), being converted to a technology hub, in Benin City, Edo State.

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FG Donates Relief Materials To IDPs In Edo, As Obaseki Makes Case For Libya Returnees

The National Logistics Committee on Distribution of Relief Materials has donated relief items to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) being accommodated in Edo State.

Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Azarema Abdulkadir, disclosed this when he led members of the committee on a courtesy visit to Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki at Government House, Benin City.

Noting that the donation marks the fifth round of distribution of relief materials to the IDPs in the state, he said the relief materials include; “10,653 bags of 50kg of rice; 33 cartons of 400mg tin of tomato paste; 1,232 cartons of 70mg of tomato paste; 210 pieces of five litre gallons of vegetable oil and 40 pieces of two litre bottles of vegetable oil.”

Other items are: “5,822 small cartons of Lucozade boost drinks; 993 cartons of Eva soap; 4 cartons of liquid soap; 11 cartons of tablet soap; 329 bales of second-hand clothes and 2,159 pieces of shoes.”

Abdulkadir expressed appreciation to state government and people for accommodating persons displaced by the ongoing insurgency in the North East, as the Federal Government continues to make efforts to restore peace in the region.

“The judicious distribution of the materials by officials in the camp would have tremendous impact on the lives of the IDPs,” he added.

Governor Godwin Obaseki, who lauded efforts of the President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government in providing succour to the IDPs, urged the committee to include returnees who are victims of human trafficking in their programme.

He said, “One of the challenges the state government is dealing with is the resettling and reintegration programme for 3,000 returnees who are victims of human trafficking. We are expecting about 6,000 others.”

Obaseki assured the committee that the state government will ensure equitable distribution of the relief materials to the IDPs.

He urged the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to also ensure that materials donated are properly stored to prevent damage.

Source: http://thebellng.com/fg-donates-relief-materials-to-idps-in-edo-as-obaseki-makes-case-for-libya-returnees/

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (second right); Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq (right).; Assistant-Comptroller-General, Nigerian Customs Service, Azarema Abdulkadir (middle); Col. Francis N. Ekoyo (second left); and Garba Mohammed (left), during the courtesy visit by members of the National Logistics Committee on Distribution of Relief Materials, to the governor, at Government House, Benin City.

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Reforms In Basic Education, Health, Agricultural Sectors Will Drive Job Creation - Obaseki

...to revive Agbede Farm

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that ongoing reforms in basic education, health and agricultural sectors would create more jobs and wealth for youths in the state.

Obaseki said this when he visited the chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State, Alhaji Akokhia Abubakar.

According to the governor, “Reforms in basic education, health and agricultural sectors will continue to attract investors to the state. This will, in turn, create more job opportunities for youths. We are working with investors to revive the Agbede Farm, which will create jobs for our people.”

The governor added that the state government will continue to embark on reforms that will make life more meaningful for the people, especially youths and discourage them from embarking on illegal migration or become prey for human traffickers.

He said the state will not relent in the fight against human trafficking which caused the illegal migration of at least 10,000 persons from the state, in the past one year.

The governor who also visited Alhaji Usman Shaghadi, a state leader of the APC, and lauded Alhaji Shaghadi for his contributions to the growth and stability in the state chapter of the APC.

He noted, “We appreciate your contributions to the growth of the party, especially the role you played during the local government elections and the state congress, which has been adjudged peaceful by independent observers.”

The APC Chairman, Etsako West Local Government Area, Alhaji Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the governor for the visit, and assured that the people in the local government area will continue to support his reforms to make the state better for all.

Similarly, Shaghadi commended the governor for the peace being enjoyed in the state, adding, “security has greatly improved in Edo State. We appreciate your effort, approach to handling security issues and your style of leadership, which has improved security across the state.”

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L-R: Chairman, Etsako West Local Government, Mr. Yakubu Musa; Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor, Mr. Taiwo Akerele; Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) in Etsako West Local Government Area, Alhaji Abubakar Akokhia, Governor Godwin Obaseki; and Mrs. Omon Akokhia, during the governor’s visit to the residence of Akokhia, in Auchi, Edo State.

Obaseki’s Affordable Housing: VP Osinbajo To Perform Groundbreaking Of EDPA, MIXTA Africa’s 1,800-Unit Housing Project

… ‘Project to source materials from Time Ceramics, others’

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said arrangements are in top gear for the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, to perform the ground-breaking ceremony of the 1, 800-unit housing project being constructed through a joint-venture partnership between the Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and MIXTA Africa, a private real estate developer.

Obaseki said this during a tour of facilities at Time Ceramics Nigeria Limited, located in Utesi, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Edo State, at the weekend.

He said, “The Vice President will be visiting the state on June 14, to perform the ground-breaking ceremony, to kick-start construction work for the 1,800-unit project to be developed by the state government in joint partnership with MIXTA Africa.”

He noted that the state government will ensure that MIXTA Africa sources supply of tiles for the housing project from Time Ceramics, noting that the Chinese firm deploys top-of-the-range technology in manufacturing quality tiles.

Obaseki assured the company’s management that the state government will support its growth, adding, “We will assist the company to secure contracts for the supply of tiles for the Federal Government’s housing development projects across the country.”

Explaining that foreign investors will only be attracted to the state when local investors are doing well, he said, “Our focus is to be acquainted with what the local investors are doing to see how we can improve their businesses. This will be done by ensuring that the business environment is conducive to guarantee profits on investment.”

Meanwhile, Executive Chairman, EDPA, Isoken Omo, noted that the agency was working with MIXTA Africa to ensure that the project site is ready for the ground-breaking ceremony, adding that the event would mark the first housing project in the state after 16 years.

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 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.”

Omo added that during the ground-breaking ceremony, balloting would be organised to select the first 30 property owners to benefit from the project, assuring that in a year’s time, about 200 units will be ready.

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

Lawrence-Salu noted, “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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L-R: Edo State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu (right); Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele; and Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Omo, signing documents to construct 2000 housing units in Benin City, at Government House, Benin City.

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World Bank Reps Arrive Benin, Meet Obaseki On New Strategies To Transform Local Govts

Still basking in the euphoria of the success of the Edo-Azura Power project and other World Bank-support projects in Edo State, Senior Director, Governance Global Practice, of the bank, Debbie Wentzel, arrived Benin City, the state capital on Friday, to consolidate the existing development-focused relationship between the bank and the Governor Godwin Obaseki administration.

Welcoming his guests, Obaseki expressed his pleasure with the series of visits by senior officials of the World Bank to Benin City and their desire to be part of the ongoing transformation of the state.

The governor said: “We have gone through a learning curve with the World Bank, a journey which started over nine years ago and we want to drive this down to the local government councils so that every individual in the state will feel the impact of our government at all levels."

He explained that at the state level, several reforms of key institutions have changed work culture for better outcomes, and added: “Our institutions are working at the state level and we want to work at strengthening the local councils.”

The governor said that his administration also plans to work with the World Bank in strengthening governance-support structures for optimal performance and deepen the deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the state.

He maintained that what the state needs from the World Bank now is ‘More Knowledge and less Cash’ so that the state will optimise her resources for the benefit of all.

The World Bank Senior Director, Governance Global Practice, who led the bank’s delegation, said: "We are hoping to work with all the states in the country to support them improve their governance structures. We want to see how the states are working and how the World Bank can support them get better results.”

Wentzel added: "We will be looking at building states' transparency, economic recovery; revenue collection and creating an enabling environment where private sector can thrive better.”

Other members of the delegation were; Practice Manager, Hisham Waly; Lead Project Specialist, Chief Bayo Awosemusi; Senior Public Sector Specialist, Ikechukwu Nweje; Senior Operations Officer, John Paul Ngebeh; and Procurement Specialist, Sunday Osoba.

The meeting also featured sessions on the implementation of the State Employment and Expenditure For Results (SEEFOR) project which falls under Wentzel’s portfolio.

Source: http://thebellng.com/world-bank-reps-arrive-benin-meet-obaseki-on-new-strategies-to-transform-local-govts/

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R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Senior Director, Governance Global Practice, World Bank, Mrs. Debbie Wetzel; Practice Manager, World Bank, Hisham Waly; at a meeting with the governor, at Government House, in Benin City.

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…group lauds Obaseki’s developmental strides

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has pledged to work with non- government organisations as his administration is open to ideas and public scrutiny, urging NGOs to defend public trust.

Obaseki gave the assurance when he received the new executive members of Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CONGOs), who paid him a courtesy visit at Government House in Benin City, Edo State.

He said, “Since we are elected to uphold public trust, we will continue to put tax payers’ money and other resources at our disposal to proper use in our mission to transform and develop the state and make life better for our people.

“We will not relent in making public, government activities and information for scrutiny, because we have nothing to hide. We will tell you what we have spent on our projects,” the governor pledged.

He assured CONGOs’ new executives that his administration would work with the group by ensuring that the group gets free access to government information on demand.

Obaseki noted that his administration will not waste public wealth as the administration remains diligent in expending public funds to develop the state.

He urged the group to be credible in carrying out its mandate to ensure that the public interest it represents is not replaced with self-interest.

“You should not use this platform to access government and negotiate your own private benefits,” he advised.

“We will support you to succeed because we believe in your organisation, in your cause and your mandate,” Obaseki added.

He expressed optimism that the new executives will advance CONGOs’ interest in ensuring the group remains transparent, noting, “We believe with the caliber of people managing the affairs of the group, we will have a transparent partner in our dealings.”

Earlier, the President of CONGOs, Comrade (Mrs.) Daisy Idufueko Abiola, said they will work with Edo State Government on different thematic areas of development.

“In line with the vision of the group we will work with the state government to drive development,” she said.

She commended governor Obaseki for the state's developmental strides and the success recorded in tackling illegal migration and human trafficking; job creation; education reforms; infrastructural development; improved traffic management system and in open governance.

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Governor, Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the President of Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations, (CONGOs) Comrade (Mrs.) Daisy Idufueko Abiola, during the courtesy visit by the new executive members of CONGOs to the governor at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State.

...‘incubation, acceleration programmes target social entrepreneurs, SMEs’

In furtherance of its commitment to equip youths with skills and expertise to drive inclusive growth and development, the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration, through its skills development arm, Edojobs, is set for the launch of the first ever state-backed innovation hub to activate and drive the state’s fledging technology ecosystem.

Set for launch on June 14, the hub would be run in partnership with Nigeria’s leading technology-based organisations, such as Siemens, Tech4Dev, Microsoft, Impact Hub, Curators University (an American University), HotelsNg, among others. It will train over 1,000 youths will be trained based on their interest in data management, programming, basic digital skills, and artificial intelligence.

The hub, to be known as Edo Innovation Hub, is to be located at the Institute of Continuing Education (ICE) in Benin City, which is currently being renovated.

Governor Obaseki said “the innovation hub would serve as a facility for training youths in the state and it would also serve as a center for follow-up trainings for youths who are participating in similar training programmes organised by the state government through its skills development arm popularly known as EdoJobs.

“Services on offer by the firms include an incubation and pre-incubation programme, acceleration programme, business clinics and co-working facilities.”

He added that the “Innovation Hub would be equipped with thousands of computers supported with high-speed connectivity.”

The innovation hub is expected to play a major role in facilitating the realisation of Obaseki’s campaign promise to put an end to unemployment in Edo State by providing 200,000 jobs.

Head, EdoJobs, and Senior Special Asistant (SSA) to the Governor on Skills Development and Job Creation, Mrs, Ukinebo Dare, said that the innovation hub would open up the space for the development of critical manpower for Edo’s burgeoning investment climate.

She noted that efforts are being made to ensure that the state integrates and benefits from the gains of a digital economy, which is why digital literacy features prominently in the offerings of the different programmes at the cluster.

According to her, “There is a focus on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Small and Medium Enterprises development is key for us as they have the potentials to engage a higher number of people.”

She noted that the hub has a number of programmes that are designed to help small businesses scale up and plug into the digital economy.

According to her, “We have several programmes in place to work with SMEs to incubate start-ups and develop them and assist them to grow. All of these form the strategy in place to create jobs.”

She said the Pan Atlantic University is also expected to come in and with an SME tool kit boot camp for entrepreneurs to better prepare them for wealth creation.

Other programmes on the lineup are those of Prof. Laura Kinnard of Drake University, United States of America (USA), who would train executives on leadership, organisational behavior, management and marketing.

Impact Hub will create a co-working space and incubation center where individuals can interact with other start-ups; Curators University, will teach Edo youths the rudiments of data science and artificial intelligence, among others.

http://thebellng.com/obaseki-set-to-launch-innovation-hub-in-edo-attracts-microsoft-siemens-others/

...as Edo govt targets accelerated growth

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that the new development deal being pursued by his administration with the World Bank will accelerate the state's growth following the adoption of key socio-economic drivers.

Obaseki said after hours of strategy meetings with officials of the World Bank, during their visit to the state last week, "The World Bank has gained deeper understanding of the issues in the state from the insights provided by the Edo State government."

He explained that specific interventions were identified at the expert meeting while clear timelines were discussed.

"The meeting illuminated the subject matter and cleared grey areas. We also discussed some variables that are largely extraneous but could impact on our strategies.

"We had a lot of takeaways from the session and the World Bank experts are now going to link their interventions with existing World Bank support instruments.

"Over the next couple of weeks, the state government will work together with the World Bank to fine-tune intervention towards activating World Bank support along the three areas, which are: Job Creation through agriculture; Private Sector development; and curbing illegal migration through skills development," the governor disclosed.

He maintained that the state government team highlighted the creativity of Edo youths and their readiness to leverage on the empowerment initiatives of his administration, such as the technology hubs and agricultural programmes, amongst others.

"With our profile as an investment-friendly state, we are confident that more support growth instrument will be extended to us by the bank and other development partners," he added.

Obaseki noted that his administration is committed to reversing the trends fuelling illegal migration as it has claimed several lives of Edo youths in the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea.

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R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Rachid Benmessaoud; Country Manager, International Finance Corporation (IFC), Nigeria Office, Eme Essien, during a meeting between the governor and the World Bank team, at Government House in Benin City, on Thursday, May 24, 2018.

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Obaseki’s Affordable Housing Scheme: EDPA Meets Host Communities, As Construction Of 1,800-Unit Housing Project Begins

All is set for the commencement of the construction of a 1800-unit housing project in Benin city, by Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki-led administration, in an effort to increase the stock of affordable housing in the state.

Traditional rulers of Egba and Ukhiri communities in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area have thrown their weight behind the proposed construction, which is a joint-venture between the Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and Mixta Africa, a private real estate developer.

The traditional rulers and members of the communities gave the assurance when the Executive Chairman, EDPA, Ms. Isoken Omo, met with them at the Palace of the Enogie of Egba Community, in preparation for the commencement of the project.

Recall that the Edo State Government sealed a deal for the construction of 1,800 housing units in Benin City with MIXTA Africa, recently, which marks the first housing project by the state government in 16 years.

Enogie of Egba Community, His Royal Highness (HRH), Palmer Imoregbe Uzama who spoke on behalf of his counterpart, Enogie of Ukhiri, HRH Osayande Aigbe, and the two communities, described the choice of the community for the project as an answered prayer, noting, “The communities have suffered neglect by previous administrations.”

Uzama expressed appreciation to the governor and the Oba of Benin, for attracting developers and investors to the state.

He assured the state government of the support of the communities.

On her part, Ms. Omo, said the siting of the projects in the communities was deliberate and forms part of the Governor Obaseki -led administration's plans to open up the communities for infrastructural, economic and social development.

She said the meeting was organised to engage community leaders and members of the communities on the benefits of the project, adding that arrangements have been concluded for construction work to commence on the sites, which was secured by the state government years ago.

According to her, “plans have been concluded to commence work at the site in anticipation of the President's visit on July 21, for the ground-breaking ceremony.

Omo said the support of the communities was crucial in realising the project’s objective, noting that the state government is planning compensation for individuals whose farms lie within the project site.

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L-R: Administrative Secretary, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Anthony Erameh; Enogie of Egba, His Royal Highness, Palmer Omoregbe Uzama; Executive Chairman, EDPA, Ms. Isoken Omo; Enogie of Ukhiri, Ambassador (Barr.) Osayande Aigbe; and Egba Community Leader, Engr. G. N Osayande, during a meeting between the Executive Chairman, EDPA and traditional leaders from the communities, at the Palace of the Enogie of Egba Community, in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

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Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed (left); Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Mohammed (second left); and Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right); during the handing over of the completed Northern Esan Water Project, at Ugboha, Esan South East Local Government Area, by the Federal Government to the Edo State Government.


http://thebellng.com/fg-hands-over-n3-85bn-esan-water-project-to-edo-government/

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L-R: Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Mohammed; and Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, during the handing over of the completed Northern Esan Water Project, at Ugboha Esan South East Local Government Area, by the Federal Government to the Edo State Government.


http://thebellng.com/fg-hands-over-n3-85bn-esan-water-project-to-edo-government/

President Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government has handed over to the Edo State Government, the completed Northern Esan Water Project, in Ugboha, Esan South East Local government area of the state.

The project estimated to have cost N3.85 billion, can generate two million gallons or nine million liters of water per day.

Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Adamu, who led a Federal Government delegation, which included Minister for Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, to the state, said the delegation was in the state to hand over completed projects to the Edo State government.

Engr. Suleiman said he participated in the conception of the project in 1997, when he worked as a consultant to the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), which was then led by current President, Muhammadu Buhari. He noted that lack of fund stalled the project, until it was revived by the present administration.

“We have finished our intervention programme and we are here today to hand over the project to the Edo State Government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki”.

He expressed satisfaction and confidence in the quality of job done and hoped that the agencies in charge of the scheme would do a good job to ensure its sustainability.

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki expressed gratitude to the President Buhari-led administration for the uncommon gesture to the people of the state and Esan land, in particular.

He explained that access to potable water was a major challenge in Esan land and thanked the President for coming to the aid of the people, promising that his administration will do all it can to ensure the project benefits the people.

“I want to assure you that as a progressive government, we align with the water policies of the Federal Government. We have been following your policy guideline to strengthen water reforms in Edo State,” the governor said.

Obaseki disclosed that a bill to set up small town and rural water projects in the state has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), noting that the state government has trained communities to set up their own water associations.

He added that his administration is restructuring its urban water board. “I want to assure you that this scheme will be sustained. This is part of our plan to ensure water in all parts of Esan land.”

The governor said his administration is working with the Niger Delta support programme, supported by the European Union (EU) to provide water, adding “We have paid 700 million naira as our counterpart fund and the EU is providing about two to three billion. We expect that all these investments will provide water in Esan land and other parts of the state.”

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L-R: Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed; Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Mohammed; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Commissioner for Energy and Water Resources, Edo State, Hon. Yekini Idaiye; and Commissioner for Wealth Creation, Cooperatives and Employment, Hon. Emmanuel Usoh, during the handing over of the completed Northern Esan Water Project, at Ugboha Esan South East Local Government Area, by the Federal Government to the Edo State Government.

…leads in access to budget, user-friendly website

Reforms by Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in opening up governance to public participation and access to state’s legislature’s activities have been applauded by independent researchers, who affirm that the state beat other 35 Nigerian states on different parameters for open governance.

In a statement on Thursday, in Benin City, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the accolades for transparency and accessibility show that Governor Obaseki’s collaboration with the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) on the deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICTs) for open governance is yielding results.

The verdict was contained in a recent publication by Enough is Enough Nigeria titled Legislative Engagement: Why Are Our State Legislators Inaccessible? to identify states’ legislature with active website, members’ contact details online and budgets available online.

The non-governmental organisation (NGO) said, “The role of state legislators cannot be underestimated in national development. This makes it imperative for citizens to engage state lawmakers for optimal representation and maximum service delivery.”

From the published data, of Nigeria’s 36 states, only seven states have their annual budget published; four had members of their state assembly’s contact details online and five operated active websites. Edo ticked the three parameters that were measured.

Osagie said the state government’s commitment to e-governance would open the space for citizens to get involved in the governance process, noting that the improved rating for Edo state shows that the people are not only carried along by government but that the legislature allows for the input of their constituents in the legislative process, among others.

According to him, “Governor Obaseki will continued to maintain a healthy relationship with the legislators in the interest of the people to improve governance.

He added, “In February this year, the governor inspected the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities at the State Assembly complex, where he commended the foresight of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, in adopting technological solutions to improve legislative proceedings.

“As a government, we promise to continue to uphold these principles to give our people the opportunity to engage in the governance process. The governor will not relent in providing needed support to drive the adoption of improved communication technologies to enhance governance at all levels, including legislative proceedings at the State Assembly Complex,” Osagie added.

By Chris Azebamwan

My attention has been drawn to a recent Press Release by Chris Nehikhare. As is to be expected, he moaned and wailed about the declining fortunes of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). But more particularly, he tried to turn truth on its head when he tried albeit unsuccessfully, to whitewash the source of the N700 million for which five of his corruption-laden party members have been arraigned in court by the EFCC. Nehikhare also tried, again unsuccessfully, to connect our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) with the predicament faced by his leaders in the PDP. One would reasonably expect that campaign funds that were raised through donors would be lodged in a bank account and any transfers from there, would be channeled through legitimate financial routes. It is not normal to hold and convey them in Ghana-must-go bags as was done in this case. This scandalous N700m would have been a debit to the PDP national headquarters bank account and a corresponding credit to the Edo State PDP bank account. We challenge the PDP to publish its list of donors at the fund-raising.

Do we need to remind Nehikhare that a former Deputy Governor, Mr. Lucky Imasuen, who is now a registered card-carrying member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was arraigned alongside the accused persons? One wonders where Nehikhare got his ‘facts’ from. Since he claims that the action by the EFCC is “politically motivated”, he should do well to tell the public the party Mr. Lucky Imasuen now belongs to. Why didn't the anti-graft agency remove his name from the list of accused persons since he claims that the agency is only fighting opposition and not corruption? The case of Lucky Imasuen proves that the action of the EFCC was neither lopsided nor discriminatory. Our declared war on corruption is on course and we will not be distracted. All those who conspired to loot our joint commonwealth must be held accountable and brought to book. There will be no sacred cows.

For the benefit of the reading public, the five accused persons are facing an eight-count charge of conspiracy with themselves to commit money laundering to the tune of N700 million, an offense contrary to section 18(a) of the Money Laundering (Prohibition) Act 2011 as amended; which is punishable under section 15(3) of the same Act.

The EFCC accused them of taking possession and control of the sum of N700 million without any contract award which they ought to know the money forms part of an unlawful act and from which amount, they made several cash disbursements to named individuals

These weighty charges against the accused persons are the reasons why they are being arraigned for prosecution and trial. The APC has nothing to do with the case. Nehikhare would be best advised to stop running around and tell his leaders Chief Tony Anenih, Chief Dan Orbih and Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu who have made themselves unavailable (according to reports), to submit themselves to the EFCC. Their interests and the course of justice would be best served that way. Only the guilty are afraid. They should gladly take their day in court. It is their right.

It is the generally held belief that the practice of the PDP is to squander money. For years, public money ended up in their private pockets. On the contrary, for us in the APC, we believe in the power of the people and the sanctity of votes. That is why we work for the people because when the people vote you in, you are answerable to them. We put the people’s money to work for the people. Our ideology is epitomized in the "One Man, One Vote" mantra of the immediate past administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, and the “no cash for votes” maxim of the wake and see Governor Godwin Obaseki. These values are obviously alien to those at the other side of the fence, the PDP. It is difficult for them to believe that it is no longer business as usual because there is a new sheriff in town.


Azebamwan is the State Publicity Secretary, All Progressives Congress (APC), Edo State.

Source: http://thebellng.com/corruption-is-the-nemesis-and-the-karma-of-the-pdp/

Edo like London, before Obaseki's first 4 years is over. Just 1 and half years now, and counting so well...

...appoints Imariagbe as GM, Waste Mgt. Board

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has appointed Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku as commissioner nominee and has forwarded her name to the Edo State House of Assembly for confirmation.

The governor has also appointed Osadebamen Charles Imariagbe as the General Manager of the Edo State Waste Management Board.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Alhaji) Adjoto Kabiru, Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq. said “I am directed by the Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki to humbly forward for consideration and confirmation by the House of Assembly, the name of Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku as commissioner nominee.

In the appointment letter by Ogie to Imariagbe, he said, “I write to inform you that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, has approved your appointment as General Manager, Edo State Waste Management Board.”

Congratulations Edo APC, E no easy..

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, his Oyo State counterpart, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and the former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Friday extolled the legacy of late Dr. Christopher Abebe.

The dignitaries joined the family, friends and well wishers at the Funeral Mass of late Dr. Abebe held at the Stella Maris Catholic Church, Iruekpen in Esan West Local government Area of Edo State, on Friday.

Bishop of Uromi Diocese, Donatus Ogun, during the homely, extolled the quality and exemplary life of late Dr. Christopher Abebe, calling on the congregation and Nigerians in general to emulate Pa Abebe, as he lived for God.

Ogun described late Dr. Abebe as a true soldier of Christ, whose life has positively influenced the society.

First son of the deceased, Mr John Abebe, thanked Governor Godwin Obaseki for his support, especially in the area of logistics, which accounted for the success of the burial.

John Abebe also thanked the former president of Nigeria and an in-law to the family, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo for standing with the family at their time of grief.

Dr. Abebe who died at the age of 99 was at various times the first Nigerian Chairman/ Managing Director of the United African Company Nigeria Limited, and the first Nigerian Chairman of Nigerian Breweries. He also served at various times as the pro-chancellor of the University of Benin, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and the University of Calabar.

Other dignitaries at the event included former governor of Edo State, Prof. Osarheimen Osunbor, Senator Daisy Danjuma, and Odion Ugbesia, among others.

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L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; and Oyo State Governor, Chief Abiola Ajimobi, at the Funeral Mass of Late Dr. Christopher Abebe, in Iruekpen, Esan West Local Government Area, Edo State

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called on Nigerians to support Muslims across the country as they commence the spiritual activities lined up for the holy month of Ramadan.

According to Obaseki, “the holy month is a period of fasting and deep spiritual reflection and a period to deepen the love for one another.

“I call on Nigerians of all faiths and religious convictions to support Muslims in their midst as they carry out these activities and urge Muslims to pray for the nation’s unity.”

The Governor noted that “the holy month affords Muslims the opportunity to back with prayers, the nation’s collective aspiration to join the league of developed countries; in which everyone can realise their dreams.”

He maintained that despite the challenges that the country faces, “Nigerians are still among the most creative, enterprising and forward-looking people in the world.”

He assured that his administration is committed to purposeful leadership that will put in place enduring infrastructure to assist all Edo people and residents to achieve their goals.

He further said that he “looks forward to the gains of the holy month, which includes good deeds, such as love, tolerance, charity, moderation, consideration for the weak amongst us, and faith in prayers, several months after the spiritual activities.”

Source: http://thebellng.com/ramadan-obaseki-seeks-support-for-muslims-urges-prayers-for-nigerias-unity/

Edo Sets Up Committee On Child Defilement, As Police Arrests 58-Yr-Old Man For Defiling 12-Yr-Old Girl

The Edo State Government has set up a committee to check the incidence of child defilement in the state, in a renewed effort to strengthen the Child Rights Law to address issues of sexual abuse of children.

Acting Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) and Special Assistant to the Governor on Basic Education, Dr. Joan Oviawe, disclosed this during a press briefing at the Government House, Benin City, when the state government handed over a 58 years old man, Mr. Lambert Ighodaro, to the State Police Command for prosecution for allegedly raping a 12 years old girl in Benin City, Edo State capital.

Dr. Oviawe added, “After the case was reported by SUBEB to the Police, Mr. Lambert was apprehended by the Police.”

She said, “This was after SUBEB received report of the incident from the class teacher of the 12 years old girl, who is a pupil in one of the primary schools. She had observed that the girl was always absent from school and contacted the girl's guardian to find out the cause of her absenteeism.”

“The girl told her class teacher how she was being sexually abused by Mr. Lambert Ighodaro, in his house during school hours since 2017. She alleged that the man gives her money after defiling her,” she added.

The SUBEB boss told journalists that the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, had set up an inter-ministerial committee to develop a framework to curb the incidence of child defilement in the state.

She said the board is concerned about the wellbeing of pupils while in and out of school, noting that structures are being put in place to assist victims of rape overcome stigma, while the perpetrators are not only shamed but prosecuted.

She said, “Teachers who were trained recently in the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (Edo BEST) programme, were trained on ways to identify children who have been abused physically and sexually.”

Oviawe explained that the board was also investigating two other cases of sexual abuse involving an 11 years old girl and another eight years old girl.

“The state government is reviewing existing Child Rights Law to strengthen the law made to combat all forms of abuses against children in the state,” she noted.

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58 years old, Mr. Lambert Ighodaro, arrested for allegedly raping a 12 years old girl in Benin City, Edo State capital.

Before Nko? They must face the charges.

Edo people, I hope you can see the type of leadership we all averted when we unanimously voted in Godwin Obaseki. These PDP people would sent Edo state into economic extinction.

...As Obaseki parades developmental projects

Following the sustained progress that has been recorded in critical sectors of Edo State such as reforms of the public sector and the huge investment in infrastructure which have rekindled economic growth, officials of the World Bank, a major development partner of the state, will arrive Benin City on Friday (tomorrow), to assess the impact of the bank’s-sponsored project, across the state.

Edo State has prudently applied its receipts, portfolios as well as technical support from the bank, which account in part, for the erosion control projects, road projects, sanitation, water, agricultural and policy reforms in institutions spread across the state, designed to engender inclusive growth.

Specifically, the Bretton Woods institution will take stock of the number of people that have been moved out of poverty, projects’ s impact on the environment, reduction in child and maternal mortality figures, gender mainstreaming amongst other considerations, underlying the World Bank’s partnership with various states and countries.

The May visit of the eleven (11) World Bank Executive Directors to Edo and Lagos states as well as the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, according to those keeping steps with the activities of the bank, shows the unprecedented interest in the Nigerian economy especially since the exit from recession.

The 11 Executive Directors – considered to be an interestingly large delegation – will assess the performance of the states on key development indicators, and review activities to determine the feasibility of extending more support to some of the programmes funded by the bank in the country.

In the World Bank mission are the Executive Directors for Switzerland, France, Italy, Peru, Germany, South Africa (representing Angola, Nigeria and South Africa), Burkina Faso (representing Francophone Sub-Saharan Africa), Zimbabwe (representing Anglophone Sub-Saharan Africa), United Kingdom and Indonesia.

Experts familiar with the development say that the focus on Lagos and Edo states is as a result of the relative satisfactory performance seen in the two states after the World Bank’s extension of funding to strengthen institutions, develop infrastructure and reduce poverty.

“The stop at Abuja is for administrative reasons and will be to meet with top officials at the Presidency and the Ministry of Finance. But the visits to Lagos and Edo states are for first-hand review of their support towards strengthening institutions and infrastructures in the states.

“It is the first time since I have been monitoring the activities of the World Bank, that 11 Executive Directors will be embarking on such a visit. There must be a couple of things that Edo and Lagos starts are doing to deserve such a visit, shortly after the annual Spring Meetings of the World Bank.“Lagos has a huge war-chest and is a darling to lenders, so the interest there is quite expected. But for Edo, it is said that they have recorded impressive milestones and have been scored really high by in-country teams. So, I am sure that the August visitors will want to go and see that for themselves,” one of the experts averred.

An official in the Ministry of Finance in one of the states, who pleaded anonymity because he was not authorised to speak on the matter, said, “We are expecting that they will carry out holistic review of the programmes and hopefully extend some of the programmes.

“In some of the states, the focus will gravitate towards social development, agriculture, among others in rural areas. This includes the Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP), Community and Social Development Programme (CSDP), FADAMA development project, among others.”

He said he expects the states to impress the World Bank staff because of the level of reforms they have implemented, noting that the bank’s assistance has accelerated development in a number of rural communities in the states.

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