₦airaland Forum

More pictures

*Kidnap of Health Minister's brother: Obaseki presents N6m cheques to families of slain police officers*

*…awards scholarship to children*

Edo State Governor Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Friday presented N6 million cheques, to families of the three slain police officers during the kidnap incident at the Ogba Zoological Garden on September 21, 2017 in Benin City, in which Mr Andy Ehanire, brother to the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, was kidnapped.

Receiving the families of the slain officers in Government House on Friday, Obaseki praised the gallantry of the slain police officers, noting that they died in active service, protecting the state and would not be forgotten.

"We are not here today to celebrate but remember our fallen heroes, specifically Inspector Henry Eguoba, Sergeant Christopher Omoregie and sergeant Stephen Igbinoba of the Nigeria Police Force Who lost their lives in a very sad incident involving the kidnap of the manager of Ogba Zoological Garden and Natures Park," he said.

Presenting cheques of N2million to each of the families of the slain police officers, the governor said "This is a token to convey our appreciation and gratitude in consideration of what they did for us.  Their memories will live on in our hearts."

He added that the money is a symbol of appreciation as no amount of money can replace their lives.

"We will provide scholarship for the children of the slain police officers to enable them complete their educational pursuit and support other members of the family," he added.

Edo State Police Commissioner, Babatunde Johnson Kokumo, expressed his appreciation to the governor for his kind gesture, which he described as rare, and noted that the financial support will help the family in solving some of their problems.

"About two dependents of the slain Police officers who do not live in the barracks have been thrown out but your timely intervention will go a long way to assist them live a better life," Kokumo said.

Speaking on behalf of the families, Mrs. Henry Eguoba, whose husband was an inspector in the police force, expressed their gratitude to the governor for the support.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki


*PHOTO CAPTION:*

*S3_001:*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), presenting a N2 million cheque to Mrs. Stephen Igbinoba, wife of one of the police officers killed during last year's kidnap of Mr Andy Ehanire, Manager of Edo Zoological Garden, at Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, August 24, 2018.

*S3_002:*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), presenting a N2 million cheque to Mrs. Christopher Omoregie, wife of one of the police officers killed during last year's kidnap of Mr Andy Ehanire, Manager of Edo Zoological Garden, at Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, August 24, 2018.

*S3_003:*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), presenting a N2 million cheque to Mrs. Henry Eguoba, wife of one of the police officers killed during last year's kidnap of Mr Andy Ehanire, Manager of Edo Zoological Garden, at Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, August 24, 2018.

*S3_004:*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (3rd right); Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Johnson Kokumo (3rd left), with families of police officers killed during last year's kidnap of Mr Andy Ehanire, Manager of Edo Zoological Garden, at Government House, in Benin City, on Friday, August 24, 2018.

*Housing reform: 1800-unit estate project will drive Edo's economic rejuvenation – Obaseki*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has described the 1, 800-unit Emotan Gardens project being developed in partnership with MIXTA Africa, as a project that will stimulate economic growth in the state.

The housing project is part of project billed to be showcased alongside other reforms embarked upon by the Governor Obaseki administration at the 27th edition of the Edo National Association Worldwide (ENAW) convention, in Canada.

He said, “From our strategic vision, we envisage Edo State as that state in Nigeria that offers opportunities to all Nigerians to aspire and attain their aspirations. Specifically, we are creating a society in which people can live in peace and harmony.”

On the Emotan Gardens project, he said, “This project is going to be of huge benefit to the economy of the state; almost 80 per cent of what is required or what will be used to build the Estate is going to be sourced from Edo State. From the cement, to the steel and rods that will be used, will be manufactured here. The sand, gravel, granite, and all other such materials will be obtained here. Tiles, sanitary fittings, are all manufactured in Edo State.

The glass, the aluminium profiles, the roofing sheets, the lumber for the roofing are all made here, and of course the labour. So, almost 80 percent of what will be required to build this estate will be sourced locally.”

The governor said the estate project, “is going to be a large-gated community with lots of amenities, serviced with electricity 24/7; it is going to have metered water supply, security and entertainment around it. There is going to be shopping mall and arena, and other facilities like healthcare centre and a school. It would provide perhaps the kind of quality living that our people are aspiring to, but most importantly, it will be affordable.”

He said that the state government intends to use the project to grow a new set of artisanal manpower and experts in building, that will be the envy of all, noting, “The project will be quite impactful. But more importantly, it will help us to train a whole new generation of artisans, construction workers, professionals in construction industry, who we hope will now be pioneers in developing many more estates in the state.”

On creating access to the estate, he said “The Estate is located on Sokponba Road and one of the main arteries of Benin City. Our plan is to expand and dualise that road so that access into the estate will be smooth. We also plan to build another artery road behind the estate to also help in easing traffic flow into and out of the housing estate.

Noting that Emotan Gardens is one among many innovations in the state, he said, “We are having a revolution in the education sector as well, with Edo-BEST. There is also the Edo-Health Improvement Programme (Edo-HIP) in the health sector.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

*Growing investor confidence: Manufacturers relocate from Delta State to Edo, cite Obaseki's reforms*

The positive disposition of the Godwin Obaseki-led administration in Edo State towards a private sector-led economy and the elimination of barriers to business through reforms, are pulling businesses from neighbouring Delta State.

According to manufacturers, the exodus of companies to Edo State from Delta State is happening on the back of the growing investor confidence, which in turn is a factor of the ease with which business owners are conducting their activities in Edo State, devoid of man-made encumbrances that impact their bottom line in Delta State.

Speaking at the 32nd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Manufacturers Association (MAN), Edo/Delta Branch, with the theme: "The Nexus of Science, Technology and Industry," the Chairman, Dr. Alofoje Unuigboje, decried the challenges manufacturers face in doing business in Delta State.

Unuigboje lamented that manufacturers in Delta State contend with infrastructural challenge and all manners of charges and fees collected on Delta roads by those he described as urchins.

According to him: "Ease of doing business has experienced considerable improvement in Edo, premised on the empirical evidence of free movement of goods on Edo State roads and the absence of innumerable urchins from industrial premises, who impose arbitrary and extortionate demands."

He added: "The ready access of ministries and other government establishments up to summit, to Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has engendered a mutually rewarding partnership between Edo State Government and MAN. This cannot be said of Delta State from where companies have moved to Edo State."

Unuigboje explained that the major consumer in any society is government and maintained that there is a sense in which government supports industries in its geographical zone, through patronage of local products.

"It makes good business sense as it is necessary internal dynamics that boost the economy of the state. Supporting local industries through patronage of local products is not a favour but a reflection of enlightened self-interest," he stressed.

The National President of MAN, Dr. Frank Jacobs, lamented that the manufacturing sector was adversely affected by the recession which the country has exited.

He urged the federal and state governments to work in synergy to carry relevant stakeholders along in designing appropriate strategies to improve and stabilise the country's economy.

The MAN president charged Delta and Edo states to intensify efforts at attracting more investment as both states still lag behind in industrial development.

*Fight Against Human Trafficking: Edo Govt takes campaign to Abudu, urges residents to report traffickers*

The Edo State Commissioner for Justice/Attorney General of the state and Head of the State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking and Illegal Migration, Professor Yinka Omorogbe, has urged Edo people and residents in Orhionmwon Local Government Area to report suspected human traffickers to the taskforce.

The taskforce was established by Governor Godwin Obaseki in August 2017, to check the high incidence of human trafficking and illegal migration in the state.

At an advocacy programme organised by the taskforce in Abudu, headquarters of Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Prof. Omorogbe said the state government was fully committed to tackling human trafficking by creating jobs for youths in the state, urging residents in the area to report suspected traffickers to the taskforce for investigation and subsequent prosecution.

“Human trafficking is a bad business. Don’t get involved or allow yourself to be trafficked by those looking for young men and women to be exploited. We are informing you so that you won’t learn the hard way. Many others who have gone and returned are gnashing their teeth now.

“Our children undergo slavery there. We have records of thousands of Nigerians who were killed or missing in the Sahara Desert, Libya or Mediterranean Sea.

“But the traffickers don’t tell you the hard life your children undergo there; how they are kidnapped in connivance with them. Parents and other relations end up sending money from here to Libya. They only tell you their success stories that are not true. Beware of the antics of the traffickers,” Omorogbe told guests at the event.

According to her, the state has received over 3,883 Libya returnees between November 2017 and July 2018, adding that Governor Godwin Obaseki was worried that more than half of the returnees from Libya were from the state, with Orhionmwon Local Government Area taking the lead in the state.

The Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Mr. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero, who also spoke at the advocacy programme, said the governor was working round the clock to change the narrative by investing massively in human capital development.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Anti-Human Trafficking Issues, Mr Solomon Okoduwa, assured that the taskforce would sustain the campaign.

Okoduwa urged parents, religious leaders as well as the international community to partner with the state government in the fight against human trafficking and illegal migration, noting, “We have over 4,000 Libya returnees as I speak, but we are saying this must not be allowed to continue.”

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S3_001:*
Edo State Commissioner for Justice/Attorney General of the state and Head of the State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking and Illegal Migration, Professor Yinka Omorogbe (middle); Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Mr. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero (3rd right); Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Anti-Human Trafficking Issues, Mr Solomon Okoduwa (2nd left); and Chairman, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Hon. Sylvester Okoro (4th right); and other dignitaries, at an advocacy programme organised by the taskforce in Abudu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State.

*S£_002:*
Cross-section of participants at an advocacy programme organised by the taskforce in Abudu, Orhionmwon Local Government Area, Edo State.

Pictures

More pictures

*Obaseki inspects CBN's school project in Isi, assures host community of judicious use*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has assured the people of Isi-North in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of the state that the project executed by Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) located in the area will be put to good use, as the state is in dire need of such structures for building local capacity to solve problems.

The Governor gave the assurance during an on-the-spot assessment of the completed CBN facilities, which include blocks of furnished classrooms and dormitory in Ward Seven, Isi-North, in Uhunmwode local council.

Obaseki emphasised that his administration would conceptualise plans on how best to utilise the facilities, adding that his administration will embark on the reconstruction of Isi Community Road during the dry season.

He noted: "I was informed of the facilities lying waste here and decided to come and see for myself. I want to assure and appeal to you all to give me three months to come out with a master plan on how best to utilise these facilities. During the dry season, I will make sure that the road linking this community is rehabilitated."

The Governor, who adduced the improper handing over of the project by the CBN to the state as the reason for its non-capture in his administration's plans, noted that the project would be put to good use.

According to him: "I came here to see for myself and to see how to put these facilities to best use, as we have urgent need of such structures for an educational institution. It's very extensive, furnished and we will find use for it."

The Principal of Elahor Grammar School, where the project was sited, Mr. Odigie Evbarmwenraya, said the blocks of classrooms and dormitory are fully equipped and officially handed over to the community on completion this year.

Mr. Odigie noted that "the projects are greatly underutilised and we needed to alert the government as the facilities here are of high standard and state-of-the-art, compared to those paraded by some conventional universities in the country."

He said the contract for the facilities was awarded in 2014 and handed over to the community in 2018.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki

*PHOTO CAPTION:*

*S3_001:*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd left) flanked by the Principal, Elahor Grammar School, Mr. Odigie Evbaemwenoriomwaoya (left); and other government officials, during an on-the-spot assessment of completed Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)'s facilities, which include blocks of furnished classrooms and dormitory in Ward Seven Isi-North, in Uhunmwode local council, Edo State.

*S3_002:*

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (standing), Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Osaro Idah (left); Chief of Staff to the Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele (2nd right); and  Secretary, Edo State Chapter of All Progressives Congress (APC), Lawrence Okah (right), during an on-the-spot assessment of the completed Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)'s facilities, which include blocks of furnished classrooms and dormitory in Ward Seven, Isi-North, in Uhunwonde local council.


*S3_003:*

Cross-section of Isi Community leaders during Governor Godwin Obaseki's on-the-spot assessment of the completed Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)'s facilities; blocks of furnished classrooms and dormitory, in Ward Seven, Isi-North, in Uhunmwode local council.

*Uyi Amegor's death, rude shock – Obaseki*

*…commiserates with Amegor family, Egor local council*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has described as very shocking, the news of the passing of Hon. Uyi Amegor, the former Vice Chairman of Egor Local Council.

"I am taken aback over the passing of Hon. Uyi Amegor, the Vice Chairman of Egor Local Government Area. I commiserate with his family, Edo South Leader of our party, Gentleman Amegor and the people of Egor local council over his passing.

"We lost Mr. Uyi Amegor at a critical moment of our development as a state, when he was working with the team at the local government to reposition local government administration. It is indeed a great loss to the people of Egor local council and the entire state," the governor said.

He pledged that the Edo State Government and the entire APC family will stand by the Amegor family through their trying moments and prayed that God grants the family the fortitude to bear the huge loss.



Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

*Obaseki urges collective action on forest preservation, seeks community buy-in*

*… says bill for Forestry Commission presented to Edo Assembly*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that his administration is committed to partnering relevant stakeholders to curb deforestation, calling on communities to desist from converting land marked as forest reserve for private use.

The governor said this at the Stakeholder Workshop on Sustainable palm oil development in Edo State by Tropical Forest Alliance 2020 Africa Palm Oil Initiative (TFA2020 APOI) in Benin City, noting that a bill for the establishment of a Forestry Commission, has been sent to the State House of Assembly for legislation, as part of effort to stem the depletion of the state’s forest reserves.

He said, “We must do something about our forest to reclaim and preserve it from total depletion.”

He explained that on assuming office as governor, he was worried over the spate of illegal logging that occurred between the late 1990s and early 2000s, noting, “We inherited a very robust forestry sector from our colonial masters, but over the years, mismanagement has led to its depletion.”

Obaseki expressed optimism that at the end of the workshop, participants would proffer lasting solutions to issues relating to idle lands, indiscriminate transfer of reserved areas to private individuals, land management and use.

“What do we do about host communities where we have forest reserves and they engage in sales of forest assets, thereby resulting in deforestation?” He questioned.

He tasked participants to brainstorm on better ways of policing forest assets and called for capacity building for students of tertiary institutions to protect forest assets.

Obaseki identified oil palm as a veritable agro-product, which when fully utilised, will turn the economic fortune of the state around.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Security programme, Prince Joe Okogie, urged participants at the workshop to utilise the opportunity and come up with workable solutions for addressing the challenges of deforestation.

The representative of Proforest, Abraham Baffoe, noted that Tropical Forest Alliance (TFA) 2020 is a Private Public Partnership (PPP) that brings together government, the private sector and civil society organisations to eliminate deforestation from the supply chain in the production of palm oil, beef, soy, pulp and paper. He added that the participants were gathered to deliberate on tackling the challenges of deforestation, which is a global trend.

Baffoe said as a global challenge, deforestation relates to agricultural plantation development, subsistence farming, bushfire/wild fire, charcoal production, illegal and unsustainable logging and population and development pressure.

Speaking on the topic: “Sustainable, Responsible, Palm Oil Production by Nigerian Oil Palm Stakeholders,” the Managing Director of Okomu Oil Plc, Graham Hefer, charged stakeholders to be committed in ensuring that the objectives of TFA are realised.

He identified areas where stakeholders need to demonstrate more commitment to include: transparency, long term economic and financial viability, conservation of natural resources and biodiversity, responsible consideration of employees and local communities, responsible development of new plantations and commitment to continuous improvement.


Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

Website: www.godwinobaseki.com
Facebook: fb.com/godwinobasekiofficial
Twitter: @governorobaseki
Instagram: @governorobaseki


*PHOTO CAPTION:*

*S1_001*
L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Presco Plc., Mr. Felix Onwuchekwa Nwabuko; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; and his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, at the Stakeholder Workshop onSustainable palm oil development in Edo State by Tropical Forest Alliance 2020 Africa Palm Oil Initiative (TFA2020 APOI) in Benin City.

Obaseki's tech revolution: EdoJobs, ATC target 1,296 Edo youths for digital skills training

Edo State Government in partnership with American Tower Cooperation (ATC), have concluded plans to train 1, 296 Edo youths on digital skills to drive innovation and wealth creation across the state.

The partnership is driven by the state's jobs creation and skills development platform, EdoJobs, an initiative of the Governor Godwin Obaseki's administration designed to deliver at least 200,000 jobs to Edo people and residents.

Speaking with journalists, Head of EdoJobs and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Skills Development and Job Creation, Mrs Ukinebo Dare, said "the training will be held for the 1, 296 youths in three designated ATC centres in Benin City, Ekpoma and Irrua.

"The 1, 296 youths will be empowered with Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills required for improving their employability and prepare them for entrepreneurship."

The training, she explained, "will provide youths in the host communities with the chance to become self-employed as well as opportunities to develop skills in ICT."

Dare said that "In the areas where the ATC centres are located, we are working with community heads to shortlist candidates to be trained. On August 7, together with officials of ATC, we visited the Odionwere of Igbesanmwan Community to sensitise community leaders to nominate beneficiaries from the community."

"The next day, we carried out another sensitisation at Emando Community and at the Enogie's Palace at Irrua, where elders and the Enogie were properly sensitised on the benefits of the digital training," she added.

According to her, "The training will be spread across six months. Thirty (33) participants will be trained for three months in each of the three training centres. In Benin City and Ekpoma training centres, the training commences on August 13, while in Irrua, it will begin on August 20."

Edo Govt warns against illegal conversion of residential buildings to industries, religious houses

...charges property owners to seek conversion approval

The Edo State Government has warned property owners in the state over the unlawful conversion of buildings approved for residential purpose to religious and industrial buildings.

In a statement signed by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon. Edorodion Oye Erimona, the state government condemned the practice, noting that such action is not only illegal but harmful.

He noted, "the Edo State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has observed the illegal and harmful conversion of buildings from the uses/purposes for which they were initially approved and built, to other uses within the state.

According to him, "For example, the conversion of a residential building to commercial, religious, industrial and other uses, is a gross violation of the Town Planning Laws of the state. Regrettably, such indiscriminate conversions of the use of buildings are responsible for the chaotic nature of our settlements across the state."

He added, "The Ministry condemns this act of illegality and wish to advise property owners to submit their proposed change of use applications to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, EDPA Building, Sokponba Road, Benin City or any of its Area Planning Offices across the state for consideration, and subsequent approval before any such conversion is done."

He urged property owners, who have already converted their property to other uses, to submit applications for conversion to the ministry for necessary action.

"The Ministry will not hesitate to invoke appropriate sanctions against defiant property owners in line with the extant Town Planning-Laws," he warned.

*Edo Govt., experts begin work on new environment policy*
*…to action Paris Climate Change Agreement*

Stakeholders and environmental experts have committed to developing a sustainable environment policy that will harmonise the agricultural, water and energy sectors in Edo State, and prep the state for the implementation of the Paris climate change agreement.  

This was the resolution at the Stakeholders' Meeting for Edo State Environment Policy, organised by the state government with support from the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), at Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The UNIDO National Consultant, Dr. Eugene Itua, assured the state government of support in attaining the sustainable development goals, especially as it affects environmental issues.

He said, "We are here to develop a more cohesive policy that will support every sector of the state, as the environment forms the bedrock of our society."

He noted that the stakeholders' meeting is geared towards developing an environmental policy that would drive sustainable development.

According to Itua, "over the years, Edo state government has demonstrated willingness to support a healthier and friendlier environment. It is clear that for the implementation of various policies on the environment, there is need for cohesion, where it appears the institutions or policies appear weak."

"We are here to develop such a policy that will improve the agricultural, water, energy sectors. This would also help to tackle environmental pollution and to reinforce what the entire world came together to develop with the agenda 2030 and Paris Climate Change agreement. The governor recognises this very well and his dream is to see that we exploit resources in the state for the benefit of all," he added.

Itua assured that policies stemming from the meeting would be dutifully implemented, adding that it would help the government drive her developmental goals.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Bright Emoedume, said that the UNIDO assistance to Edo would ensure that environmental policies are viable and sustainable.

Emoedume noted that the meeting was aimed at developing a well-coordinated policy that is adaptable to the challenges in the state.
 
*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*DSC_0231*
L-R: United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO)' Consultant, Dr. Itua Eugene; Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Bright Emoedume; General Manager, Edo State Waste Management Board, Osadebamen Charles; and Consultant on Environment to Edo State Government, Mr. Ola Oronsanya, after the Stakeholders' Meeting on Edo State Environment Policy, at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, on Monday, August 06, 2018.

*Obaseki showcases 1800 Emotan Gardens, land, education reforms at Edo worldwide convention*

With less than four weeks to the 27th edition of the Edo National Association Worldwide (ENAW) Convention, holding in Toronto, Canada, the Edo State Government is set to parade her achievements in the housing, education and other sectors at the event.

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, will lead the state’s delegation to the Toronto convention, which has become the single largest assemblage of Edo professionals and experts living and working in the diaspora, and forms a large part of the state’s critical mass.

At a strategy meeting between representatives of MIXTA Africa, the joint venture partner in the development of the 1800-unit Emotan Gardens, and representatives of the state government, Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Isoken Omo, assured that a mix of engagement strategies would be deployed in the state government’s effort to meet the housing and other needs of Edo people in the diaspora.

“The Edo State Government and her partners are upbeat about the Emotan Gardens and similar housing projects coming on stream soon. It is an opportunity many of our people have been waiting for to acquire decent housing through a very transparent process devoid of encumbrances,” Omo said.

She explained that “the appeal of Emotan Gardens has been phenomenal, as would-be subscribers are just waiting for us to open sales. Governor Obaseki is passionate about this product and will be exhibiting it at the ENAW Convention.”

Also, at the meeting, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, said “the governor will also be showcasing the technology-based teaching method, which is a component of the Edo State Basis Education Sector Transformation (Edo-BEST) initiative.”

The governor’s aide added that “Edo is the first and only state that has deployed the technology in public primary schools in Nigeria.”
According to him, “Another sector that will feature in the governor’s presentation at the ENAW Convention is the peace being enjoyed by developers following the signing of the Private Property Protection Law, which has abolished the activities of Community Development Association (CDAs).

“The sanity in the built sector now is beyond compare and we are happy to report a new era devoid of crisis over land and building construction across the state.

“The abolition of CDAs was thought impossible considering the influence the members weighed and many Edo people could not build houses because of the activities of these misguided youths.”

The four-day Toronto convention, the 27th in the series, will hold from August 31 – September 3.

Edo JAAC records N5m increase in IGR, declares N2.9bn for June

…local councils laud Obaseki’s intervention in payment of June salary

The Edo State Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) has recorded N5 million increase in Internally Generated Revenue for the month of June, which formed part of the N2.9 billion declared as the total allocation that accrued to the state for the sixth month of the year.

This was disclosed by the Chairman, Oredo Local Government Area, Hon. Evbareke Jenkins Osunde, at the end of the JAAC meeting presided over by the Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki.

Osunde noted that the internally generated revenue in the state increased from N206 million recorded in May to N211 million recorded in June 2018.

He explained that, “Teachers’ salaries deducted for the month was N1,081,654,814.22, contribution for pension stood at N264, 115, 845.36, while pension arrears paid was N100 million.”

Osunde said the total deduction was N1, 979, 354, 951.11; while net allocation was N1, 001, 089, 151.83.

The Oredo Council boss lauded Governor Obaseki for assisting local councils with the payment of workers’ salary for the month of June.

“It is important to note that because of the deadlock in the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) meetings over the revenue for June, Governor Obaseki made money available for the payment of staff salary in the local government councils in the state. We greatly appreciate him for that,” he added.


PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_0189

L-R: Esan South-East Local Council Chairman, Hon. Victor Emuakhagbon; Oredo Local Council Chairman, Hon. Evbareke Jenkins Osunde; and Etsako Central Local Council Chairman, Hon. John Akhigbe; after the Edo State Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting, at the Government House, Benin City.

Int’l Community, others watching devts in Edo – NTA DG

…as Obaseki mulls technical partnership with NTA on EBS revamp

The Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Yakubu Mohammed, has commended the development initiatives of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in various sectors of Edo State.

Mohammed gave the commendation during a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House in Benin City, the state capital.

The NTA boss who led management staff of the Benin Network Centre on the visit, said feedback from the station’s global audience showed that the developmental strides of the governor are being watched closely, through the NTA, by Nigerians and the international community.

Assuring the governor of the media organisation’s support, Mohammed said: “We remain committed to your cause and that of Edo people. We will continue to support you as you continue to impact positively on the lives of the citizens of the state.”

He recalled what he described as memorable experience and the hospitality of Edo people, which he enjoyed while working in the state as the Zonal Director of the Benin Center between 2008 and 2009.

In his remark, Governor Obaseki lauded the role of the NTA in mobilising Nigerians towards nation building and said that its zonal office in Benin City, was one of the first zonal offices established in the country with considerable broadcast experience.

“I want to thank NTA for being the only voice through which the people across the nation heard me during my electioneering campaign for the governorship position in the state.

“We will continue to support you, work and collaborate with you to give us technical support as we revamp our own radio and television stations. We need our own stations to tell our story,” the governor said.

On governance, he maintained that, “My position as a governor is to elevate our political experience and build on the foundation laid by my predecessor to ensure even development across the state and create the enabling environment for businesses to thrive.”


PHOTO CAPTION

DSC­_0249; DSC­_0248

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Director General, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Yakubu Mohammed; Zonal Director, NTA Benin Network Centre, Pauline Igbanor; and the Deputy Director, Marketing, Olaide Ajala; during a courtesy visit to the Governor, at Government House, Benin City, Edo State.

Market women, NURTW stage solidarity marches to Edo Govt House, laud Obaseki’s achievements

...hail removal of thugs from markets, parks

Market women and members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Edo State have staged solidarity walks in support of the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

The leader of the Market Women Association, Madam Blackie Ogiamien, in their separate march, told the governor “We are here to express our appreciation to your leadership style. As keen followers of your administration, we salute you for your various initiatives which includes the promotion of cleanliness through the weekly sanitation introduced by your administration.

“Many persons have attested to the restoration of law and order in the state capital. This has improved the free flow of human and vehicular traffic especially around markets. In the beginning it seemed like child's play but today, we have seen the result.”

Ogiamien maintained that “As mothers, wives and workers, your prompt payment of workers is quite commendable as it encourages workers to plan ahead and meet the demands of their families.

“We market women commend you for demobilising street urchins and thugs or 'agberos' who were terrorizing our markets and making trading almost impossible. We commend you for restoring sanity in this area as we the market women now have peace and are able to do our business without any harassment.”

She appealed to the governor not to allow for the return of thugs in the state, recalling the harrowing experiences they had in the hands of the thugs while they held sway.

In his response, Governor Obaseki expressed his appreciation to the women for their support, and explained: “With the support of members of my administration, we stopped ticketing through which different groups were extorting market women. I never knew that my pronouncement would go far and restore sanity in the city, which has improved the total revenue collected by the local government monthly."

In a separate event, the Chairman, Edo State Chapter of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mr Odion Olaye, who led other members of the union on a solidarity walk to the Government House in Benin City, commended the governor for what he called “the good work Obaseki has done within a short time in office,” and assured that members of the union are behind him.

“We are here to pass a vote of confidence on you as the governor of Edo State, because of the good work you are doing for us in the state. It is only those who are blind that will not see the good work you are doing. You are building roads, we are seeing the projects and our members are happy with you. We appreciate the good work you are doing with the Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA), the vigilante group and the Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV) programme.

He urged those peddling falsehood to distract the governor to desist from the act and maintained that the governor deserved to be praised.

In his remark, the governor expressed appreciation to members of the union for their support and assured that his administration is determined to make life more meaningful for the average Edo person.

"My vision is to transform the economy and make the state viable for businesses to thrive. I have engaged contractors to rehabilitate and reconstruct roads across the 18 local government areas of the state.”



PHOTO CAPTION



DSC_0363


Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), addressing members of the Edo State Chapter of National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, during a solidarity walk by members of the union to the Government House in Benin City, Edo State.


DSC_0267

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), receiving members of the Market Women Association in Edo State during their solidarity march to Governor Godwin Obaseki, at the Government House, in Benin City, Edo State.

Ease of Doing Business: Manufacturers laud Obaseki’s reform initiatives, back investment in infrastructure

Manufacturers on Tuesday in Benin City, the Edo State capital, lauded the ongoing reform initiatives of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration and pledged their support for the state government.

Chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Edo/Delta Branch, Dr. Alofoje Unuigboje, who led members of the association on a courtesy visit to the Edo State Governor, noted that the ease of doing business in the state has greatly improved.

“The ease of doing business in Edo State has improved considerably. The desilting activities on Ugbowo-Uselu axis and other locations in Benin City are appreciated.

The disappearance of the ‘ocean’ at Okhoro/New Lagos Road crossroad has improved traffic situation considerably and saves cost of vehicle repairs,” Unuigboje said.

The association applauded the rural/urban dichotomy in Land Use Charge and advised that “it should be sustained to assist rural development and stem rural-urban drift.”

It urged the state government to sustain her focus on developing science and technology, which it described as “the sub-stream on which industrialisation rests,” amongst other recommendations.

In his remark, the Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki, assured the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) that his administration would continue to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive in the state.

The governor told his guests that the he was committed to developing the infrastructure that would attract foreign and local investors, adding that the completion of the Benin River Port and the Benin Industrial Park is top priority to his administration.

Obaseki said: "My administration has done well by eradicating private tax collectors from the state. This has also increased the Internally Generated Revenue of the state.

"The easy way to creating jobs for our people is for government to ensure that an enabling environment is created for businesses to boom. In the area of tax collection, the good news is that we have now introduced the use of technology in all the local government areas of the state.”

On infrastructure, he assured that "Our goal as a government is to continue to rehabilitate and reconstruct roads that will connect all parts of the state and serve as major channels for the distribution of goods.”

"As part of making Edo State more viable, a very transparent and procurement process has been put in place, such that all government procurements are listed and matched with local producers," he said.


PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_­0204

R-L: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Chairman, Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN) Edo/Delta Branch, Dr. Alofoje Unuigboje; Managing Director, Okomu Oil Plc, Dr. Hefer Graham; and the Managing Director, Nomagbon Pharmaceutical, Pharm. E.A Osadolor; during a courtesy visit by MAN to the governor, at the Government House, Benin City, on Tuesday, July 24, 2018.

Lassa Fever: Edo Govt urges residents to sustain prevention efforts as resurgence threat looms

The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. David Osifo, has called on residents in the state to redouble their effort against the resurgence of Lassa Fever disease, as experts have identified occurrence of suspected cases of the disease in the endemic areas.

The commissioner who made the call while addressing journalists in Benin City, Edo State capital, explained, “We have observed that after the intervention by Governor Godwin Obaseki to halt the spread of Lassa Fever, it appears that residents in the state are slowing down on preventive measures against the spread of the disease.”

He disclosed that “Medical experts with the health ministry have identified the resurgence of the disease with records of new cases in endemic areas such as: Esan North-East, Esan Central, Etsako East and other areas.”

He advised that “It is important for residents in the state to continue to take steps to prevent the disease.”

“People should protect their foodstuffs and water from rats through storage in well covered containers. Avoid bush burning that can drive rats into people’s homes from the surrounding bush. The environment and homes where people live should be clean always,” Dr. Osifo further urged.

He called on residents to ensure that they report suspected cases of the disease by calling the following numbers: 08033380188; 08023345987; and 08084096723.

“People should ensure that they wash their hands frequently in addition to avoiding contact with infected persons. Any person with fever should go the hospital promptly. Eliminate rats from your homes and communities. Cook your food thoroughly.

“Residents in the state should avoid eating raw food that are not properly stored in covered containers. If possible, people should suspend the drinking of garri,” he said.

Obaseki slashes market levy by 40%, as NURTW lauds developmental strides

To boost the profit margin of traders in the state, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reduced by 40 per cent the levy paid in selected markets.

Obaseki announced the cut when he received members of the Market Women Association led by Madam Blackie Ogiamien, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, in Benin City, Edo State.

In a related development, members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the state have thrown their weight behind Governor Godwin Obaseki for delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.

According to the governor, traders who would benefit from the cut are those whose businesses are not viable in Agbado, Oliha, Ogiso and Uwa markets in Benin City, the state capital, and declared that traders who were paying N5,000 before the announcement, will now pay N3,000.

He assured market women that his administration has made double ticketing and touting history in the state, noting that he would give priority to Edo citizens on job creation.

He said that in the coming months, the state government would ensure that power, water and sanitation issues receive the desired attention in all the markets within Benin metropolis.

Obaseki said that traders who trade in densely populated areas would have access to health care services.

He urged the traders to support his administration’s effort to eradicate child labour in the state by reporting suspected cases to the appropriate authority.

Earlier, the leader of the traders, Madam Blackie Ogiamien, commended the governor for the steps taken to spread development across the state, adding that Obaseki’s governance style is worth commending.

She lauded the governor’s resolve to address double taxation and touting which place much burden on the traders, noting that the gesture would increase their profit.

The State Chairman of NURTW, Mr Odio Olaye who led other members of the union on a solidarity walk to the Government House in Benin City, commended the governor for what he called “the good work Obaseki has done within a short time in office,” and assured that members of the union are behind him.

He urged those peddling falsehood to distract the governor to desist from the act and maintained that the governor deserved to be praised.

The union leader said: “It is only those who are blind that will not see the good work you are doing. You are building roads, we are seeing the projects and our members are happy with you. We appreciate the good work you are doing with the Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA), the vigilante group and the Public Works Volunteers (PUWOV) programme.”

In his remark, the governor expressed appreciation to members of the union for their support and assured that: “My administration is determined to make life more meaningful for the average Edo person. My vision is to transform the economy and make the state viable for businesses to thrive. I have engaged contractors to rehabilitate and reconstruct roads across the 18 local government areas of the state.”


PHOTO CAPTION:

DSC_0221:


Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the Market Women Association leader, Madam Blackie Ogiamien, during a courtesy visit by traders to the governor at the Government House, in Benin City, Edo State, on Monday, July 23, 2018.


DSC_0299:

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left),addressing members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the state, during a solidarity walk to the Government House in Benin City, on Monday, July 23, 2018.

Obaseki condemns killings of policemen in Edo

...commiserates with their families, Police hierarchy

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has condemned the ambush and killing of four policemen by assailants, while on routine patrol in Sabon-gida Ora, Owan West Local Government Area of the state, at the weekend.

Obaseki said the ugly incident is being investigated to ascertain the motive of the killers while assuring that efforts to arrest them was ongoing.

“I commiserate with the Inspector-General of Police, the Edo State Police Command, and the families of the dead. Our administration will work with the security agencies to apprehend the criminals and bring them to justice,” he said.

The governor stressed that the unprovoked attacks on men and women of the police force and sister security agencies is unacceptable and assured that the state’s security architecture will create roles for communities and local groups as well as the organised private sector to support security agencies in eradicating crimes across the state.

According to media reports, the four policemen who were attached to the Sabongida-Ora Divisional Police Headquarters, were on Saturday evening killed and burnt in their patrol van by unknown persons.

The police officers were killed at a road block at Uzebba-Aviosi junction along Ifon road, Sabongida-Ora, the reports said.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

Agribusiness: Cassava Growers train Edo farmers on farm mechanisation, good agricultural practices

The Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA), has completed training for framers in Edo State on farm mechanisation and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP).

Explaining the rationale for the training, held in Benin City, the Edo State Chairman, NCGA, Donatus Imaghodor, noted that “The training will equip farmers with the tools and knowledge of how to increase and improve farm yield by deploying the right methods and techniques. This will enable them make more profit from the same size of land with less labour.”

He said the input from farmers at the end of the programme will assist the state government fulfill Governor Godwin Obaseki’s campaign promise to create 200,000 jobs for the youth.

“It will also assist the farmers to contribute significantly to the state's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and make the state the food basket of the nation,” he assured.

Imaghodor expressed appreciation to Governor Obaseki for his systematic efforts towards the development of the state especially in the area of agriculture, adding, “I appeal to the governor to help open more farmland, recognise smallholder farmers as they contribute in their little way to food security.”

A farmer, who participated in the event, Imafidon Helen, expressed delight at the training, noting, “I am happy that Edo State Government is focusing on agriculture to create jobs for youth in the state."

Imafidon added, “This training has equipped us with the necessary information needed to embrace mechanised farming to enhance our productivity and increase our income with less labour.”

"Mechanised farming will surely improve yields. We are happy to be part of the process as it will help the country produce more food.”

Marketing Communication Manager, Dizengoff Nigeria, Humphrey Otalor, explained that the training was organised to enlighten the farmers and assist them improve their yield.

“Edo state is a place we fill comfortable and encouraged to empower farmers because the government has shown interest in agriculture. The government is serious about creating jobs through agribusiness.”

He said the training will encourage youth in the state to go into farming and help eradicate food scarcity.

PHOTO CAPTION:

DSC_0414

L-R: Marketing Communications Manager, Dizengoff Nigeria, Humphrey Otalor; Edo State Chairman,Nigeria Cassava Growers Association (NCGA), Mr. Donatus Imaghodor; Edo State Women Farmers Coordinator, Apostle Patience Aiguobasinmwin; National Secretary, NCGF, Dr. Sylvanus E. Irondi; Mr.Sunday Daniel of NCGA; Sales Manager, Dizengoff Nigeria, Eastern Region; Mr. Emmanuel Chukwuemeka, during a one-day training for Edo farmers, organised by Dizengoff Nigeria and Edo State Chapter of NCGF, in Benin City, Edo State, on Friday, July 13, 2018

Obaseki's Tech Revolution: Genius Hub organises skills acquisition workshop for Edo youth

A Benin-based Non-Governmental Organisation, Genius Hub, has concluded plans to organise a crafts and vocational skills training, for Edo youth.

The training according to the organisation, is part of its support for the fight against Human Trafficking being championed by the Oba of Benin and the Edo State Government.

The Chief Executive Officer, Genius Hub, Obehi Okpiabhele, said the workshop will feature a lecture themed Skill to Wealth – An Alternative to Illegal Migration, to hold at the University of Benin (UNIBEN) on August 4.

Okpiabhele noted that the programme is aimed at inspiring and equipping participants to be self-productive and develop sufficient capacity to secure jobs and create wealth.

“Genius Hub is geared towards empowering individuals with the development of various profitable skills-set. We breed a community of geniuses with a drive to inspire and equip thousands of youth to become confident entrepreneurs with core values of dignity and professionalism,” the CEO explained.

Noting that the training will help youth create wealth for self-sustenance, Okpiabhele added, “Our group aims to reduce unemployment through self-discovery workshops, create jobs through skill-set development, and distribute wealth by converting talent, energy and contacts to wealth.”

The Genius Hub boss maintained that the training would reinforce the state government’s commitment to grooming a new generation of skilled Edo youth that would contribute significantly to the nation’s economy as employers of labour.

Benin storm water project: Edo govt inspects construction work, assures of completion

Edo State Government has assured that work on the Benin Storm Water Project, which will address flooding and erosion in Benin City, is on course and that the government is committed to its completion.

Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Omuoa Alonge Oni-Okpaku, said this during inspection of on-going work at the Uwelu axis of the Benin Storm Water Project.

Oni-Okpaku said that the project which will provide succour for residents of Benin City and mitigate the impact of flooding as well as other environmental challenges.

According to her, “The Uwelu East and West Storm Water Masterplan Project is about 70 per cent completed. Currently, the drains along the powerline is cleaned up.

“Proper concrete is used in constructing the drains to allow for proper flow of flood in the channel towards Ogba River. The project is still ongoing.”

The ambitious engineering project with a mix of deep channels, canals and underground receptacles, will on completion, de-flood hitherto flooded areas in the city.


PHOTO CAPTION:

IMG_002

Edo State Government officials with contractors during inspection of on-going work at the Uwelu axis of the Benin Storm Water Project, in Benin City.

Human Trafficking: Obaseki advocates skills-based migration at Diaspora Town Hall meeting, as group lauds his achievements

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that Edo indigenes migrating to other parts of the world stand a better chance at life if they are equipped with on-demand skills to make them globally competitive.

Governor Obaseki, who said this during a town hall meeting with indigenes of Edo under the aegis of Great Benin Origins (GBO) Worldwide, in Brussels, Belgium, noted that the state government is already working out modalities for Edo youth to develop these skills in the state.

He kicked against the activities of human traffickers, who have given the state a bad name, noting that the state government is firming arrangements with local and international partners to train youth in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), so that they can be globally competitive.

“Instead of all these people coming in to take money from these children, you can come, we will register you, we will train you, we will certify you and give you visas to go and work abroad. That is how it is done in other countries.

“Our people are very important, and I am calling on you to join me in laying the foundation for the future,” he said.

He lauded the group for working assiduously in sustaining the Benin identity, calling for a united front in the quest to develop the state.

According to him, “Let us not make ourselves sub-minorities. Let us show unity and strength in numbers. So, we must make sure we come together, and reach out to others as Edo people.

“We are doing other things in the area of infrastructure. That is the one you will see. We are rebuilding our road networks. Thank God we have a well-planned like city”

President, Great Benin Origins (GBO) Worldwide, Engr. Isaac Igbinosun, lauded the governor for his leadership style, commitment to attracting investment to the state and initiatives on youth development.

“We are proud of you, we are proud of your achievement since you took over the leadership of governing our state, Edo. We feel safe each time we look at what you are doing. We are solidly behind you and anytime we are called upon, we will be there to contribute our quota back home. It is always said that no matter where you go, home is home. We are very proud of you, we encourage you to continue,” Igbinosun said.

The Great Benin Origin (GBO) is a social cultural organisation that seeks to bring all Edo indigenes in diaspora under one umbrella with the purpose of restoring the lost glory of the great Benin Kingdom, promoting the Edo culture and tradition and assisting the economic development of the state.

Igbinosun noted that some of the programmes of the group in promoting the preservation of Edo cultures include sponsorship of Edo culture and language competitions, award of scholarships to primary and secondary schools’ students as well as organising a diaspora state workers’ programme for the youth.

He urged the state government to continue with the reforms on the ease of doing business, as members of the group are interested in investing in various aspects of the state’s economy with focus on agriculture and food security.

The group also applauded the governor on his initiatives to improve the security architecture and guarantees on the sanctity of contracts, noting that these would endear the state to investors.

PHOTO CAPTION:

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (middle); Commissioner for Justice and Chairman, Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe (left); and President, Great Benin Origins, Engr. Isaac Igbinosun, during the Town Hall Meeting, in Brussels, Belgium.

Obaseki drums support for skills-oriented education to improve global youth wellbeing

… lists gains of Technical, Vocational education, Edo Innovation Hub

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has urged world leaders to pay more attention to skills-based education to raise a global army of highly skilled youth, who can proffer technology-based solutions to the myriad of developmental challenges across the world.

Obaseki who made the case on the occasion of the World Youth Skills Day, celebrated in July each year, decried the disheartening and low Youth Wellbeing Index (YWI) data in developing countries.

According to the governor, “the disparity between the wellbeing figures of youth in developed countries and those in developing countries is heartbreaking. The quickest way to bridge the gap is for leaders in developing countries to redesign their educational curriculum and pay greater attention to technical and vocational education as well as Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

“The Edo State government is committed to empowering Edo youth with in-demand technology-based skills because our administration believes that our talented youth can compete on the global technology space with their peers from other parts of the world, in designing tech-based solutions to contemporary problems.”

He explained that “it is this conviction that informed our huge investment in the Edo Innovation Hub and the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin Science and Technical College (BSTC), to serve as grooming grounds and hubs for tech-based solution providers.”

He further said that, “the goal of his administration is to empower and equip the youth with the capacity to create jobs and grow their enterprises to any height they desire and contribute significantly to global economic growth and development.”

Obaseki assured that the state government would sustain the training programmes to capture millions of youth in the state in the empowerment net and hand them skills that will take them away from the labour market.

According to the United Nations, “Young people are almost three times more likely to be unemployed than adults and continuously exposed to lower quality of jobs, greater labor market inequalities, and longer and more insecure school-to-work transitions.”

The global body noted that “women are more likely to be underemployed and under-paid, and to undertake part-time jobs or work under temporary contracts.”

The UN maintained that education and training are key determinants of success in the labor market, but lamented that “existing systems are failing to address the learning needs of many young people, and surveys of learning outcomes and skills show that a large number of youth have low levels of achievement in basic literacy and numeracy.”

To raise awareness on the importance of investing in youth skills development, “the United Nations General Assembly decided in resolution A/RES/69/145 to designate 15 July as World Youth Skills Day.

“Celebrating the World Youth Skills Day 2018, a discussion focusing on how innovation and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), are transforming labor markets, as well as what skills youth need to operate in future economies and to become drivers of a sustainable future, will take place July 16 at the UN Headquarters in New York,” the UN said.


Photo Caption:

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

Human Trafficking: Obaseki at European Parliament, makes case for improved support, partnership

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has made a strong case to the European Parliament for improved and sustained support that will strengthen the state government’s efforts to curb human trafficking and illegal migration.

Governor Obaseki, who said this during a session with the European Union Parliament Sub-Committee on Human Rights (DROI), in Brussels, Belgium, noted that the state government has created structures and set up institutions such as the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, to ensure reintegration of victims of human trafficking and illegal migration.

Part of the state government’s delegation is the Chairperson of the Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking and the state's Commissioner for Justice/ Attorney General, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe.

The governor said that much as the institutional framework has been firmed up, the state also needs improved support for sustainable implementation of its programmes to curb human trafficking, which will serve to reintegrate returnees and provide teeming youths with on-demand skills to become employable and self-sufficient in the long run.

According to him, “We have a wholistic programme to curb human trafficking and illegal migration. Already, the campaign has gotten the backing of the Oba of Benin, whose support has proved instrumental to curbing the trend.

“Our programmes do not only stop at receiving and reintegrating returnees into society, but also include well laid out plans to rebuild institutions for capacity building and vocational training such that our youths would acquire globally-competitive skills to enable them lead better, fulfilling lives.”

Governor Obaseki earlier met with a member of the European Parliament Sub-Committee on Human Rights, Mr. Josef Weidenholzer, to firm up modalities for the European Union’s engagement with the state government on strategies for enduring solutions to human trafficking.

Governor Godwin Obaseki has led an all-out-war against human trafficking and illegal migration.

Edo state accounts for a considerable share of illegal migrants out of Nigeria to Europe, a good number of who die in the Mediterranean while attempting to cross to Europe. But the Governor Obaseki administration has sustained a campaign against the trend, with the signing of the law against human trafficking last June which has been hailed by experts and analysts as a major milestone in institutionalising the campaign.

The state government’s law prohibiting trafficking in persons signed into law provides an “effective and comprehensive legal and institutional framework for the prohibition, prevention, detection, prosecution and punishment of human trafficking and related offences in Edo State.”

The European Parliament’s Subcommittee on Human Rights is responsible for "evaluating the implementation of EU instruments in the field of human rights and democracy, the right to hold the Commission and the Council accountable for their activities in this area and ensuring the continuous dialogue with international agencies working in the field of human rights in order to guarantee consistency between EU and international instruments in this field.

"The committee is also responsible for providing a platform for the analysis of human rights claims related to specific topics and/or regions and using this platform for input on human rights and democracy in reports to the Parliamentary Committee for Foreign Affairs, agreements with third countries included."


PHOTO CAPTION

IMG_2197

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd right); Chairperson, Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe and members of the European Parliament, during a session with the European Union Parliament Sub-Committee on Human Rights (DROI), in Brussels, Belgium.

IMG_2203

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right); and Member, European Parliament, Santiago Fisas, at the European Parliament, in Brussels, Belgium.


IMG_2207

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (3rd right); European Parliament, Santiago Fisas; Chairperson, Edo State Taskforce Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe (third left), at the European Parliament, in Brussels, Belgium.

Public Procurement Reform: Obaseki reaffirms commitment, urges LGAs to sustain momentum

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustain ongoing reform in public procurement, urging local government councils to abide by the dictates of the law to sustain accountability and transparency in governance.

Obaseki who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osariodion Ogie Esq., made the submission at the one-day workshop on Public Procurement organised for Principal Officers of the state’s 18 Local Government Councils, in Benin City, Edo State.

The workshop was organised by the Edo State Public Procurement Agency (EDPPA), to equip officials of Local Government Councils with the fundamentals of Public Procurement in line with the Edo State Procurement Law, 2012.

The governor noted, "This administration has existed for over 18 months and no petition has been written against us to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC). This is because, at the state government level, we follow the procurement law processes. We want you at the local council level to emulate us.”

He said principal officials in local government councils need to be kept abreast of the procurement policies to enable them sustain good governance ideals at the grassroots.

He added that the principal officers from the 18 local government councils were the first set of local government officials in the state to be trained on the essentials of procurement.

Obaseki urged them to be familiar with the State Procurement Law to avoid fraudulent practices that will warrant investigation and prosecution by graft agencies.

“In Edo State today, all contracts above N10 million must be published on the website of the state’s Public Procurement Agency,” he added.

In his presentation entitled: Public Procurement: A Recipe for Good Governance and Economic Development, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, EDPPA, Mr. Henry Imogiemhe Idogun,noted that the workshop was organised to deepen procurement reform in the state especially at the council level.

Idogun said the workshop was organised to ensure that council officers avoid mismanagement of funds and corrupt practices during procurement processes, noting, “Good procurement practices reduce cost and ensure value for money, and provide timely results. While bad procurement practices breed corruption.”

The Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr. Jimoh Ijegbai, said the workshop would enlighten the participants on the essence of public procurement laws.

Ijegbai noted, “We have in place a system of reportage and a Directorate of Monitoring, this is important to avoid abandoned projects across the state.”

PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_0044

L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Edo State Public Procurement Agency, Henry Imogiemhe Idogun; Representative of Governor Godwin Obaseki and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Governor, Kingsley Ehiagiamusor, during the one-day workshop on Public Procurement organised for Principal Officers of the state’s 18 Local Government Councils, in Benin City, Edo State.

DSC­_0086

L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Edo State Public Procurement Agency, Henry Imogiemhe Idogun; Chief of Staff to Edo State Governor, Chief Taiwo Akerele; representative of the Governor and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Deputy Governor, Kingsley Ehigiamusor; and Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Hon. Jimoh Ijegbai, during the one-day workshop on Public Procurement organised for Principal Officers of the state’s 18 Local Government Councils, in Benin City, Edo State.

300 Edo farmers set for farm mechanization training

About 300 farmers in Edo State are gearing up for a training programme on farm mechanisation organised by the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Cassava Growers Association in conjunction with the Dizengoff Nigeria, an agricultural technology company.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Economic and Development Planning, Mr. Joseph Eboigbe, said the state government was interested in supporting farmers in running commercial farms and has expressed support for the session, which is billed to hold on July 13, at the Motel Benin Plaza (Moat Wing) in Benin City.

He added that agriculture is a major fulcrum of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration, which informed the increased interest in attracting and sustaining investments in the sector.

According to him, “The programme will present a good opportunity for farmers to be exposed to equipment and tools for commercial agriculture and provide them with options for expansion.”

The programme is tagged Farmers’ Open Day and will feature exhibition of tractors and implements, greenhouse, agro-consumables, knapsack sprayer and open filed irrigation, among others.

Chairman, Edo State Chapter, Nigeria Cassava Growers Association, Mr. Donatus Imaghodor, said Governor Obaseki will declare the event open, adding “The Nigeria Cassava Growers Association which is an umbrella body of Cassava Farmers in Edo State is partnering with Dizengoff Nigeria, an Agriculture and Communication Technology company in Nigeria, to organise this one–day training for 300 farmers in Edo State.”

Obaseki’s Basic Education Reform: More schools earmarked for Edo BEST

...to train 5000 teachers on tech-based teaching

…to sack, prosecute teachers for child sexual abuse

The Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), has said that the state government will introduce the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (Edo-BEST) initiative to more public primary schools in September.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education and Acting Chairman, Edo SUBEB, Dr. Joan Osa-Oviawe, disclosed this in a chat with journalists in Benin City, the state capital.

Explaining that Edo BEST is an initiative of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to transform the basic education sub-sector in the state, she said, “Edo BEST is holistic and all-encompassing and has been put in place to look at issues that may negatively impact pupils’ ability to learn, and find ways to ameliorate them.

She said, “Starting in September, parents and guardians will be arrested for not sending their children to school. Our goal is to ensure that up to 50 per cent of public primary schools from Kindergarten to primary six are added to the programme.”

On the package for teachers in the programme, she said, “We are going to train approximately 5000 teachers. We are in the process of finalising the modalities for the training.”

According to her, “One of the key areas we are adding to the training curriculum is prevention of child sexual abuse. Our pupils need to be trained on how to avoid child predators.”

She noted that teachers will be trained on how to look out for signs indicating if a child is being abused, and how to engage in a rescue routine, adding, “Teachers have been duly informed that anyone of them caught sexually abusing their pupils will be dismissed from service and prosecuted.

She explained that “Within a one-week span, we have reported cases of child sexual abuse from Akoko Edo, Owan East and Uhunmwode Local Government Areas.

“SUBEB will ensure that the girls’ education is not truncated. We commend teachers and school heads that are the heroes in this move, for their roles in discovering pupils that are being abused,” she added.

She said SUBEB is putting a structure in place to address the problem, adding, “We have a Rapid Response Team comprising representatives of our Guidance and Counseling Unit, Legal, Social Mobilisation and Quality Assurance units.”

Edo Procurement Agency trains local council officials on best practice

To develop capacity and deepen reforms in local councils, the Edo State Public Procurement Agency is set to organise a workshop for principal officers in the 18 local government councils in the state.

In a statement, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Edo State Public Procurement Agency, Henry Imogiemhe Idogun, said the workshop would equip local council officials with knowledge and tools for best practice in procurement, in line with the state government’s principles of transparency, accountability and discipline in management.

He said the workshop, themed Deepening Public Procurement Reforms in Edo State, will hold on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at the Festival Hall, Government House, in Benin City, Edo State capital.

Noting that the workshop will set the template for effective contracting of companies for projects in the local government areas, he said, “The workshop will equip officials of local government councils with the relevant fundamentals of Public Procurement which will enable them carry out procurements in line with Edo State Procurement Law 2012.”

He added that the workshop will entrench good procurement culture and practice in the state.

The State Public Procurement Agency oversees the process by which public authorities, such as government departments including local government councils purchase work, goods or services from companies.

Recall that a similar workshop was organised for top government functionaries in September last year by the agency, in an effort to ramp up compliance with the state’s Procurement Act.

Obaseki deploys Quality Assurance personnel to public primary schools to oversee teaching

…Okays mentoring for teachers, daily review of teachers’ activities

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the deployment of Quality Assurance personnel to public primary schools across the state.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education and Acting Chairman, Edo SUBEB, Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, disclosed this on Tuesday in Benin City, the state capital.
She explained that the decision is in line with the state government’s strategy to strengthen the inspectorate arm of the primary education sub-sector for better monitoring of the impact of the ongoing reform in the sector.

“The deployment follows the revamp of the Inspectorate Division. Qualified and outstanding teachers already in the public school system are being recruited and trained for this role and deployed on a ratio of one quality assurance staff to 10 schools,” the governor’s aide said.

On the specific roles of the Quality Assurance personnel, Dr. Osa Oviawe said, “They are to visit schools every day and send their reports to SUBEB on a daily basis using their digital devices. The Quality Assurance personnel will monitor teachers on their teaching as well as take inventory of teaching aid and equipment in the schools, including what works and what is broken.”

The Edo SUBEB Acting chairman, further said that “As part of Governor Obaseki's Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (Edo-BEST) initiative, a new role has been created in the sector, called Learning and Development Officers. These people will be trained to become Edo-BEST trainers and mentors of teachers.”

According to her, “Once the Quality Assurance team visits a school and identify areas of improvement, the Learning and Development Officer will visit the school and provide ongoing training and support to teachers.

“A third group of staff is the Social Mobilisation Officers. They are to work with the community, the School-Based Management Committee (SBMC) and the Parents Teachers Association (PTA) to ensure that there is good synergy between the school and community.

“All these staff will be assigned 10 schools each that they will to visit on a daily basis and provide support. The Social Mobilisation Officers will be responsible for sensitisation on Child sexual abuse, enforcement of the Child Rights Law and related issues.”