₦airaland Forum

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has charged the new Head of Service (HoS), Mr Isaac Ehiozuwa, to urgently put to use, his wealth of experience, in fast-tracking the ongoing reforms of the state's civil service in line with the vision of his administration.

Obaseki gave the charge on Monday, at the Government House in Benin City, the state capital, during the swearing in ceremony of the new HoS.

"We have resolved to give world-class trainings to our civil servants and you will help reshape the civil service to ensure that everybody that works for the state government must be Information and Communication Technology (ICT)-compliant.

"We know you are hardworking and have the capacity to bring the desired reform in the sector," the governor said.

The governor explained that his administration's vision is to reform all aspects of the state's civil and public service for optimal performance.

He maintained that work has started on the reform of the physical environment with the ongoing revamp of the buildings in the Secretariat Complex, and charged the new HoS to commence work with the reform of the people in the service.

"One of the key responsibilities of the new HoS would be to reform the people in the service" he added, and urged Mr. Ehiozuwa to build on the legacies of his predecessors.

In his remark, the new HoS expressed gratitude to the governor for the confidence reposed in him and described his appointment as a call to service.

He assured that he would live up to the estimation of the state government and people of the state, adding "I will do my duties with diligence and will put in my best in the interest of the state.

Ehiozuwa said his vision for the service will be driven by "excellence and proficiency in service delivery by all civil servants" and promised to leverage on the experiences of his predecessors.

The new Head of Service takes over from Mrs Gladys Idahor who retired from service earlier in November.

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Edo State Governor. Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with the new Head of Service (HoS), Mr. Isaac Ebose Ehiozuwa, after the swearing-in ceremony at Government House, in Benin City, on Monday, November 26, 2018.

Expectant of President Muhammadu Buhari's visit to Edo State on Tuesday, November 27, residents of Benin City are excited to host the President in the state, with many making a case for Federal Government project as fallout of the visit.

A cross-section of Benin residents, who spoke to journalists at the weekend, said they were eager to have the president in the state, even as checks around major government establishments showed buildings wearing a new look preparatory to the visit.

A visit to the Government House and other government offices in the state showed civil servants putting finishing touches to last-minute arrangements for the visit.

The President is expected to commission the Edo-Azura Power Plant and attend the Chief of Army Staff Conference holding in Benin city.

A Benin resident, Mr. Goodwill Efosa, said that he is anxious to welcome the President to the state, noting, "This is not the first time he is coming to the state,  but I am eager to see him this time around because he has performed really well, in my own estimation."

Another resident, Mr. Osaze Moses, said that the President's visit is always something to look forward to, as there are often fallouts from such August visits.

"For me, I think we might get something big from this visit. The President has shown to be very caring, especially for the poor. I just hope we get a Federal Government project from this visit. That will endear Benin people more to the President, " he said.

Mr Moses added that "the Benin-Abraka Road is one federal government's project that needs the president's attention because it is a federal road. The road is currently in a bad state and though Governor Godwin Obaseki has assured that he would fix the road, but I am of the opinion that the governor should continue with the good work he is doing on state roads and streets while the federal government is urged to reconstruct the Benin-Abraka Road."

He urged Edo people to look forward to positive outcomes from the visit as they have faith in his administration.

President Buhari will visit Edo state on Tuesday 27th November 2018..All is set to welcome Mr Integrity to the heartbeat of the nation.

*140 roads reconstruction: Obaseki mobilises contractors to Lawani, Sokponba Road, Ikpokpan axis*

As Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, increased roads to be rehabilitated across the state to over 140, contractors have been seen mobilising men and equipment to new locations to continue the reconstruction work.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said new areas where contractors are carrying out reconstruction work include Jemila Street, Ohovbe Road and Lawani Junction by Urubi Street, Benin City.

Osagie said that other roads where work is ongoing is Yoruba Street where the contractor is expected to carry out drain rehabilitation; rehabilitation of Sokponba Road; Aburime Street, off New Lagos, and Delta Crescent off Ikpokpan.

He added, "The state government is clear with its instructions to contractors on how the reconstruction work is expected to be delivered in line with the report of roads audit carried out recently.

"We will not be taking any chances in ensuring that roads in deplorable condition are fixed during the dry season. We have over 140 roads across the state where reconstruction work is being carried out."

He added that reconstruction work on Boundary Road and Commercial Avenue as well as Ogbelaka/Evborhan, Yoruba Street and Dumez Road, Ugbor-Amagba Road, is well on course.

In other parts of the state, work is ongoing in "Edo Central where reconstruction has reached appreciable stage in Mousco - Ukpenu Road, Ekpoma; Irrua - Uromi Road; Secretarial Road, Igueben; Union Bank Road, Igueben and Uwenlebo Road, Ekpoma, among others."

The reconstruction of roads is coming in the wake of an audit of roads carried out a few months ago, with which the state government assessed the level of deterioration of roads across the state.

Edo State Government  will on Tuesday, November 27, host President Muhammadu Buhari, who will commission the Edo-Azura Power Plant and grace the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference, which is billed to hold in Benin City, the state capital.

In a statement, Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said that preparations are in top gear to give the president a grand reception.

According to him, “We are delighted that the President will be in the state for the Chief of Army Staff Conference, the commissioning of the Edo-Azura Power Plant and other engagements in Benin City, the Edo State capital. Preparations are in top gear to give the president a befitting welcome."

The governor's aide added that  "Much as we are certain that the impressive governance model by Governor Godwin Obaseki is one of the reasons we are having August visitors from the Federal Government, we are also delighted that the President is coming down by himself this time.”

Osagie explained that some of the activities lined up for the visit include a visit to the Palace of Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II; commissioning of the Edo-Azura Power Plant, and will attend the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Annual Conference.

He said that the state government is pleased to have the president commission the Edo-Azura Power Plant, which is a shinning example of the state’s attractiveness to investors and a boost to the ease of doing business.

“The Edo-Azura Power Plant is a success story in the state's drive to keep investors and has become a model for other states in the country. We are very much delighted that the President will be here to commission the facility.

“This will be the second time, we are having a visit from the Presidency in less than six months and it shows we are doing something right. So, we are indeed happy to have the President,” he added.

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

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On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I congratulate our Muslim faithful on the occasion of the celebration of the birth of Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W) as we mark this year’s Eid el-Maulud.

We join our Muslim brothers and sisters in celebrating this auspicious occasion and urge everyone to use this occasion to reflect on the teachings of peace and togetherness embodied by the Holy Prophet in the Holy Quran.

The import of the celebration is not lost on us as a government, as we have, in a long while, enjoyed a peaceful atmosphere occasioned by the tolerance espoused by the Holy Prophet and propagated by the Muslim faithful in the state and across the world.

May Almighty Allah bring us peace as we mark this day.

*Maulud Nabi!*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, will on Saturday, December 1, 2018 lead the state government’s delegation to the maiden convocation ceremony of Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, the first since inception.

Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Abiodun Falodun, in a chat with journalists, said that a number of activities have been lined up for the ceremony, which will hold from November 27, 2018 to December 2, 2018 at the main campus of the polytechnic.

The Founder’s Day Lecture, one of the events lined up for the convocation ceremony, will be delivered by the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, on Thursday, November 29, 2018, entitled, “Leadership Development and Vagaries of Power: Nigeria in Perspective.”

He said, the lecture by Hon. Ohonbamu, will set the tone for the series of activities set to hold in Usen, Ovia South West Local Government Area, Edo State.

The convocation lecture will be delivered by Space Physicist, Prof. Babatunde Rabiu of the Center for Atmospheric Research, on Friday, November 30, 2018, entitled: “Repositioning Higher Education Towards Effective Patronage of Science and Technology for Sustainable Development.”

“We are extremely proud that Governor Obaseki will be at the occasion as visitor to the institution. This is a landmark event. We are proud of the reforms the governor has brought to the state and this institution in particular. So we are prepared for the auspicious occasion and thrilled that the institution is now meeting the objectives set for it by its founding fathers,” Prof. Falodun said.

The convocation, according to Prof. Falodun, is a major milestone and reflects the far-reaching reforms by the Governor Obaseki-led administration in the institution. He noted that the convocation ceremony will hold at the school in Usen.

He urged graduates of the institution to avail themselves of the opportunity to get their certificates and assured that all necessary arrangements have been made for a seamless and successful event.”

The Rector explained that the institution will issue the first set of certificates bearing its name after over 16 years of its establishment, noting, the certificates will be produced in partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“We are urging graduates of the institution to visit our website for details of how to obtain their certificates. The convocation will be an opportunity for them to collect theirs. We are as excited as they are, that we have made it possible for them to receive their certificates,” he said.

He added that a number of reforms are ongoing at the polytechnic to reposition it for global reckon, noting that new programmes in the Higher National Diploma level have been introduced even as partnerships have been sealed for international visiting lecturers from Switzerland, Germany and South Africa.

*Industrial Park, Benin River Port, modular refinery 'll accelerate Africa's industrialisation – Obaseki*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that his administration's commitment to the development of an industrial park, a modular refinery and the Benin River Port in the state, will accelerate Africa's industrialisation drive.

Obaseki made the submission in commemoration of Africa Industrialisation Day celebrated on November 20, each year by the United Nations and its partners.

According to the governor "industrialisation holds the key to Africa's prosperity and with ongoing continent-wide conversation about Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), any part of the continent that wants to benefit from the agreement must strengthen her industrial base."

He assured that "when the Benin Industrial Park and the Benin River Port come on stream, more jobs will be created for Edo people and residents, while a robust product processing base will be established to add value to goods produced in the state.

Obaseki noted that the 2018 Theme for the Africa Industrialisation Day: "Promoting Regional Value Chains in Africa: A pathway for accelerating Africa's structural transformation, industrialisation and pharmaceutical production," highlights his administration's supports for policies and programmes which envision sustainable development for the state.

He said parts of the plans to support industrialisation in the state include sustaining the tempo in providing enabling environment that encourages local and foreign investors willing to site their industries in the state, and by, "focusing on improving employability of youths through technical and vocational education and other skills development programme organised by EdoJobs."

"The transformation of Edo Geographical Information Service (EDOGIS) agency is aimed at ensuring investors acquire land to support the state's industrial growth with ease, while we continue to support human capital development, research and development (R&), technology and governance."

For the United Nations (UN), "Industrialisation, with strong linkages to domestic economies, will help African countries achieve high growth rates, diversify their economies and reduce their exposure to external shocks, which will substantially contribute to poverty eradication through employment and wealth creation."

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Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

*…as gov, civil servants, others celebrate retired HoS*

Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has thanked civil servants in the state for contributing to the achievements recorded by his administration in the last two years.

Speaking at Thanksgiving Reception in honour of the outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor, to celebrate her retirement from the Edo State Civil Service, in Benin City, Obaseki commended civil servants for their loyalty and support.

He said his administration has impacted the lives of Edo people owing to the support and encouragement his administration received from workers and civil servants in the state championed by Mrs. Idahor.

He described the outgoing Head of Service as a fearless and honest civil servant, adding that, "As Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and working for the improvement of the education sector, she embarked on dangerous mission with the then commissioner to shut down miracle centers where examination malpractices were perpetrated."

Obaseki said Mrs. Idahor's cooperation and support helped his administration in no little way to engender reforms in the civil service.

He assured her that the transformation of the civil service which started during her tenure as HoS will be completed despite her retirement from the service, noting, "We inherited a civil service that was second to none but will make it better and a reference point for other states to emulate before I leave office."

"The government is grateful for the services you rendered and we know you are not tired as we will need your wealth of experience, courage and forthrightness as you have more to do for the state," the governor added.

The Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Samson Uwaifo (rtd.), expressed appreciation to guests at the occasion for celebrating Mrs Idahor and her meritorious service to Edo State, adding, "She has done well, contributed her quota for the development of the state and retired without blemish."

He called on civil servants to emulate her outstanding leadership qualities that she brought to bear in the state.

Representative of serving and retired Permanent Secretaries and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Emoedume Brai, commended Mrs Idahor for her support in repositioning and reforming the civil service to make them effective in delivering services to tax payers.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Gender, Efosa Uyigbe, who spoke on behalf of Baptist Old Students' Association (BOSA) said Mrs Idahor has made them proud as an ambassador of the association.

Responding, Mrs Gladys Idahor expressed gratitude to God for successfully retiring from service without blemish, adding, "I want to also thank my husband for all the support and love as his encouragement helped me in a great way to perform well."

She thanked the governor for believing in her as it brought the best out of her.


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L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; outgoing Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor; her husband, Mr. Johnson Idahor; and Chairman of the occasion, Hon. Justice Samson Uwaifo (Rtd.), at a reception held in honour of the outgoing Head of Service,  Mrs Gladys Idahor to celebrate her retirement from the Edo State Civil Service.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has urged mothers and pregnant women to take advantage of the Maternal New-born and Child Health Week (MNCHW) being observed in the state to access free maternal health services.

The governor, who was represented by his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, made the call while flagging - off the 2018 MNCHW programme in Benin City, noting that Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) and other designated health facilities across the state will render free health intervention services during the one-week programme.

He said, “My administration has continued to support programmes aimed at enhancing the well-being of women and children because of my belief that women and children are the true wealth of any nation.”

Obaseki said his administration would continue to promote policies and programme aimed at reducing maternal, new-born and child mortality in the state.

Earlier, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. Izilien Asogun, said MNCHW was aimed at delivering an integrated high-impact package of preventive, promotive and curative health services to mothers and children.

He listed services to be rendered during the week to include immunisation, deworming of infants, nutrition screening, birth registration, administration of Vitamin A supplement to children from six to 59 months and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and malaria testing.

The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. David Osifo, said the MNCHW is a bi-annual event designed to complement the routine services being rendered to mothers and children in PHCs in the state.

According to him, “This exercise is of immense importance as we continue the fight to reduce sickness and death in mothers and children under five years.”

Osifo noted that the one-week programme holding from November 19th – 23rd would also include health education on exclusive breastfeeding, environmental sanitation and handwashing.

The State Coordinator, World Health Organisation, (WHO), Ms. Faith Ireye, who spoke on behalf of development partners involved in the programme, commended the state government’s efforts in improving PHCs’ services in the state.

She said Edo has been Polio-free since 2009 and has achieved reduction in mother and child diseases via improved immunisation activities.

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Representative of Edo State Governor and Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki administering vaccine to an infant, during the flag-off of the 2018 Maternal New-born and Child Health Week (MNCHW) in Benin City, Edo State.

*…Govt seeks alternative electricity distribution company*

Following the failure of the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) to provide electricity to residents of Edo State, the state government has described as “regrettable BEDC’s insensitivity to the suffering and extreme inconveniences it has caused millions of its customers across the state.”

Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr Crusoe Osagie, who conveyed the state government’s position on the glaring ineptitude of BEDC in the state, said: “The state government is miffed at BEDC’s failure to deliver electricity to Edo people and for throwing the entire state into darkness.”

Osagie lamented “BEDC’s unprofessional attitude of sitting on their hands to watch their subscribers, most of whom have paid their bills in full, suffer the socio-economic consequences of their incompetence.

“Their action is most regrettable as they have not considered their customers deserving of any apology for the extreme inconveniences, they have caused Edo people and residents.”

He explained that the state government is disturbed by the poor crisis management strategy of the power distribution company and assured that the days and months of darkness inflicted on Edo people are nearing their end.

“The government, however, urges Edo people to be patient as it has taken the initiative to take its destiny in its hands by obtaining a licence for another private power company, Ossiomo Power for the generation and distribution of power, independent of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC),” Osagie said.

The governor’s aide maintained that officials of the state government have been bombarded with torrents of complaints from residents, in every nuke and cranny of the state, about BEDC’s ineffectiveness.

Following the completion of major audit of roads in Edo State, the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government has intensified repair work on 109 roads across the state, including key roads in Edo Central Senatorial District.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said work has reached appreciable stage  on Mousco - Ukpenu Road, Ekpoma; Irrua - Uromi Road; Secretarial Road, Igueben; Union Bank Road, Igueben and Uwenlebo Road, Ekpoma, among others.

He added that the ongoing work across roads in Edo Central Senatorial District include cutting, earthwork, stone base and asphalting.

According to him, "We are concerned about the state of roads across the state and have ensured contractors are mobilised to undertake this remedial work during the dry season, as promised. This work will touch on all parts of the state. It is to ensure that the major roads are in good state, at the least."

In Benin City, he said the affected roads include Boundary Road and Commercial Avenue, as well as Ogbelaka/Evborhan, Yoruba Street and Dumez Road.

Recall that in the state capital, the contractors handling the projects were seen with their workers on site on Thursday when journalists went around Benin metropolis to inspect the road projects.

The workers were seen with their equipment on Ugbor-Amagba Road, which covers 13.8 kilometres, according to the contractor.

Major reconstruction work is ongoing in parts of Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin City, including Etete Junction on Adesuwa Road, where rehabilitation of failed portions are ongoing.

Workers handling rehabilitation of failed portions of Etete Junction on Adesuwa Road, are expected to be deployed to 1st and 2nd Ugbor as well as other roads in the axis.

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Ugbor-Amagba Road in Benin City, being reconstructed by the Edo State Government.

*Reconstruction work begins on 109 roads in Edo as residents commend Gov. Obaseki*

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has made true his promise to reconstruct failed roads across the state with the commencement of work on 109 roads in the three senatorial districts.

The contractors handling the projects were seen with their workers on site on Thursday when journalists went around Benin metropolis to inspect the road projects.

The workers were seen with their equipment on Ugbor-Amagba Road which covers 13.8 kilometres, according to the contractor.

Major reconstruction work is ongoing in parts of Government Reservation Area (GRA) in Benin City, including Boundary Road, as residents expressed appreciation to the Governor Obaseki-led administration for taking advantage of the dry days to fix the roads.

Speaking to journalists at Etete Junction on Adesuwa Road, Assistant Supervisor, Heartland Nigeria Limited, Charles Erua, said they are rehabilitating failed portions of Etete Road.

Erua explained that "after fixing this part of the road our men will move to 1st and 2nd Ugbor as well as other roads in the axis.”

It was gathered that the 109 roads have been grouped into axis; New Benin, GRA, Sokponba, Okhoro, Medical, Agbor Road and Upper Sokponba, Ekenhuan, Siluko and Agbor Road in Edo South Senatorial District.

Others are in Edo Central and Edo North senatorial districts.

Recall that the state government carried out a major audit of bad roads in the state recently, to update the existing data on the conditions of all roads in the state.

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Workers on Etete Junction by Adesuwa Road, in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, November 15, 2018.

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Ongoing road reconstruction work along Ugbor-Amagba Road in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, November 15, 2018.

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Ongoing road reconstruction work along Boundary Road in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, November 15, 2018.

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Ongoing road reconstruction on Ugbor Road in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, November 15, 2018.

...says agency was repositioned to open sector for private investment

The Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Ms. Isoken Omo, has said that the agency was repositioned by the Governor Godwin Obaseki led-administration to provide affordable housing and properly engage with the private sector to provide investors with exciting investment options, such as the Emotan Gardens Estate.

Omo, who disclosed this during a chat with journalists in Benin City, said that a new law was enacted to give legal backing to the agency's new role as a private-sector facing agency, which now allows it to relate with the private sector properly and attract big-ticket investment in the real estate development sector of the state.

"What we have done in the first instance is to get the legislation in place to enable us compete in the market and be in a place where the private sector can comfortably do business with the state.

"Most of the times when investors hear that government is spearheading a project, people tend to think that it will be a short-term arrangement. They will want to make sure everything is done within the current tenure of the government in power," she said.

She explained, "The old law was actually enacted in the 1960's and it was for an authority which was funded by government, supported by government and driven by the government. What that meant was that, if projects were not funded, the agency will not be able to do anything. It was a very broad legislation that had planning and all kinds of responsibilities."
She noted that with the new law, the agency now has a new lease of life and can deliver on a number of projects, with dynamic funding arrangements.

"For you to make it a value chain arrangement, you have to make sure that from the supply and the demand sides, you have been able to deal with all the issues. So it is not enough for you to develop the houses, you should be able to offload them. You have to give people different payment options to be able to buy the houses or rent it; whatever option they have to enter into the property ladder is what we now offer. Those are the things this law enables us to do."

Noting that Emotan Gardens is one of the first demonstrations of the agency's new direction, she said, "It is quite a robust law because it not only talks about the housing provision, it also talks about the demand side. What that means is that we are supposed to have a mortgage bank through which people in the state can key into our projects and get mortgages to buy these houses. So that is the medium to long-term objective of EDPA. Some of these will be made possible as we progress on the Emotan Gardens project," she added.

Isoken noted, "we also have an artisan programme in the law that will help us train the crop of workforce we need to continue to produce quality houses. It has taken all of that into cognizance and the new order also gives us the opportunity to get grants."

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Workers at the Emotan Gardens Estate in Benin City.

"MY DREAM FOR OVIA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY"

I dream of a prosperous constituency where every citizen of Ovia will live in dignity. I dream of an end to poverty, inequality and unemployment in Ovia. I dream of a Constituency where the rule of law will prevail and there will be observance of human rights.

I dream of a constituency where the government at all levels will prioritize human capital development and industrial development. I dream of a constituency where the government will ensure that citizens have access to quality healthcare and where the rich will patronize local hospitals rather than go abroad for medical treatments so that the locals would be provided with the same quality healthcare as their counterparts anywhere in the country.

I dream of a constituency with reduced infant and maternal mortality rates. I dream of a constituency where the rich invest in the health sector – build world class hospitals – rather than waste money to place adverts on obituaries of loved ones.

I dream of a constituency where each and every citizen of Ovia will benefit from the so called representation and also have a good standard of education. I dream of a constituency where women will be carried along in all aspects in order to touch each and every angle of Ovia federal constituency .

I Dream Of A Better Ovia. I Dream Of A Brighter Future For Our Children. I Dream That All My People Of Ovia Federal Constituency Would Work Hard and Give Us Maximum Support To Make Our Dreams Come True. It's Our Dream, It's The Ovia Dream.

Let's Join Hands And Make Ovia Great!
Together We Can Make A Difference!!
Our Dream Shall Come True!!!

MY PEOPLE ARE MY HOPE AND MY PRIDE

I’m Dennis Idahosa I approve this message

Experts drawn from the organised private sector, multilateral organisations and grant-making firms, have lauded the job creation drive of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in Edo State, urging for intervention in agriculture, gender issues to sustain the gains that have been made.

This was the submission by experts during a policy session moderated by Afolabi Imokhuede, Senior Special Assistant to President Muhammadu Buhari on Job Creation and Youth Empowerment, at the just-concluded Alaghodaro Summit, held to mark Obaseki’s two years in office.

The experts advocated the need for more reforms to ease doing business, investment in proper training to satisfy international standards, putting in place gender targeted policies and exploiting more opportunities in the agriculture sector as ways of improving job creation efforts.

Some of the panelists included the Managing Director (MD), Presco Plc., Felix Nwabuko; Senior Private Sector Specialist, Finance Competitiveness and Innovation, World Bank, Kofi Boateng Aggyen; MD, VACC Technical, Connie Guilfoyle; MD\CEO, Dangote Foundation, Mrs Zouera Yousoufou, and Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Jobs Creation/ Skills Development, Mrs. Ukinebo Dare.

Speaking on the investment climate in the state, Agyen explained that Edo has a rich investment climate and advised that government deepens policies on ease of doing business.

Ukinebo said that the state government is investing in key infrastructural projects to fast-track job creation, noting that the Obaseki-led government has made job creation, social and infrastructure development and economic prosperity key to his policy.

“In the last two years, figures and travel patterns in the region appear to show that our economic drives are yielding fruits,” she added.

Yousoufou disclosed that her foundation has made provisions to help women in need of grants to do business, adding “the foundation has an arrangement with the Bank of Industry on this matter and would be looking out for ways to partner with the state.

Nwabuko, on his part, maintained that there was need to exploit agriculture because it is still the biggest employer of labour in the country.

*Alaghodaro: Obaseki earmarks 100 roads for construction*

*…says Edo has made appreciable progress*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that 100 roads in different parts of the state have been earmarked for construction as the dry season sets in.



Obaseki who said this during the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit in Benin City, the state capital, noted that his administration has made appreciable progress in the last two years in provision of infrastructure, education sector, job creation and empowerment as well as in repositioning the state for investments.



Addressing guests, members of his cabinet and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state at the luncheon held after the Thanksgiving Service to celebrate his two-year anniversary as governor of the state.


The governor acknowledged the achievements of his predecessor, which he said his government was building on.



He explained that “two years on, Edo people are celebrating the progress we have made in all sectors of the state.”

He thanked Edo people and residents for their support and encouragement, adding that the input from the people helped the administration to perform better.



"God has endowed the state and placed her in a unique location. We all should be patient and trust God to help us make more progress," he said.

Secretary to State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said: “This celebration is to tell our people how far we have gone in fulfilling our promises. For us, we are progressing as all we promised in four years will be done in less than four years, looking at our progress so far in the first two years".



Ogie noted that God has been faithful to the Obaseki-led administration in fulfilling the electioneering promises made to Edo people in the area of job creation, infrastructure development, sports development, education and health care.


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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd right); his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki (right); Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon Philip Shaibu (2nd left); Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq. (left); and National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Adams Oshiomhole (middle), at the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit Luncheon, in Benin City, Edo State.

Our attention has been drawn to a catalogue of falsehoods attributed to the Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, being circulated on various social media platforms.

The faceless promoters of the comment mentioned that the governor, among other things said: “The huge debt I met on ground was so alarming and I think is best for us to see how we can reduce it. This we eventually did.”

We are aware that we are in the season of politics, in which desperate politicians resort to unconventional and desperate measures to raise their ratings and pay cheques through the concoction and fabrication of falsehood, moonlighting, image bashing and the likes.

We advise the masked promoters of the comment to check elsewhere for their target(s), as Governor Godwin Obaseki is not one to be swayed or distracted by such attention-seeking schemes.

As we move closer to the 2019 general elections, we wish to guide administrators of various groups on social media platforms to insist on the basic parameters for gauging the credibility of sources, to retain the confidence of their teeming members.

*_Osagie is Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Media and Communication Strategy_*

The federal government has commended the giant strides of the Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, in the education sector, specifically the policy options that have created over 7,000 digital teachers across the state and the high school attendance rate in the state.

Minister of Education, Alhaji Adamu Adamu, gave the commendation on Monday at the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit in Benin City, the Edo State, capital, an event organised to mark the second-year anniversary of the Obaseki-led administration.

Adamu who was represented by the Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Hamid Bobboyi, restated the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration’s commitment to sustaining the funding of the basic education sub-sector through the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).

He commended the giant strides of the Edo State Government and the appreciable impact made in the basic education sector in the last two years.

Adamu said that of the about 10 million out-of-school children in the country, Edo State has one of the lowest of that number.

"We should not forget the challenges facing the basic education sub-sector in Nigeria with over 10 million out-of-school children. Edo State has one of the lowest numbers of out-of-school children in Nigeria," he said.

The minister said the success made so far by the Obaseki-led administration is commendable and holds a great promise of moving the education sector to a greater height.

He assured that the federal government  would continue to support Edo and other state governments in meeting their basic education obligations.

Adamu called on state governments to access their counterpart funds through UBEC as the federal government has made huge amount of money available to develop the basic education sub-sector in all the states.

The minister urged state governments to access and utilise the funds to transform the nation’s basic education sector.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

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

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S2-001:*
L-R: Representative of the Minister of Education and Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Dr. Hamid Bobboyi; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, at the 2018 Edo Summit, part of activities to celebrate Governor Obaseki’s second-year anniversary, at Edo Hotel, Benin City, Edo State, on Monday, November 12, 2018.

*The Edo Summit; Obaseki second year anniversary*

Governor Obaseki presents scorecard to Edo people.

Cabinet members, Top government dignitaries join Governor Godwin Obaseki to thank God for a successful two years as governor of Edo state.

Edo people have many reasons to be thankful to God.

In the last two years we have seen purposeful governance laced with great tenacious commitment to make Edo state better.

Thank you lord.

*Alaghodaro 2018: Women's Summit*

Still ongoing!!!

Join in the movement

*Alaghodaro 2018 is live*

The 2018 Alaghodaro Summit is live.

The event is kicking off with the Youth Summit/Job Fair, holding at the Edo Innovation Hub.

Following the activities on the official alaghodaro social media handles as well as governor Obaseki's pages.

Twitter: @Alaghodaro2018
Instagram: @Alaghodaro2018
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alaghodaro18


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


Alaghodaro, Progress!!!!

*
*…creates 77,000 jobs, migrates 7,000 teachers to digital platform*

*…okays 24-month plan to revamp health sector*

All is set for the smooth take-off of the second edition of the Alaghodaro Summit which begins on Friday, in Benin City, the state capital.

Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Crusoe Osagie, said the excitement is palpable everywhere in the state as Governor Godwin Obaseki, showcases the impact of government on Edo people in the last two years.

The governor's aide said, "The interesting thing about this year's Alaghodaro Summit is that it is about Edo people and residents. The last edition was an investment summit and that was why we had big-ticket investors from all parts of the world converge on Benin City, in November last year."
He added that "last year's investment summit broke the ice for the influx of investors which the state has continued to witness across all sectors.

"For the 2018 edition, we are going to have a people's summit that will bring all Edo people and residents together in one place, face-to-face with their governor."

Osagie explained that "From the theme of the summit: 'Edo of Our Dreams - Investing in Our People,' you can tell that the focus is on the people; the farmer, the vulcaniser, the market men and women, drivers, young people, those in the organised private sector and the unemployed and everyone."

He maintained that reports from hotels and rest houses in Benin City, show that they are fully booked due to the increasing human traffic into Benin City for the Alaghodaro Summit.

The governor's aide said the strides of government for the period will be the focus of discussions at the summit, particularly, the over 77,000 jobs already created by the Obaseki administration.

"A special office called EdoJobs was created for this purpose. You do not need to know anyone or meet anyone for a job in Edo State. All you need to do is to log on to the EdoJobs portal and you will be contacted and matched with an employer.

"The governor will also parade the administration's achievements in the education sector, which has witnessed tremendous reform. Edo teachers, numbering 7,000 are today active participant in the global digital space, conducting classes with digital devices loaded with academic instructions for primary school pupils.

"These achievements are unprecedented, though we are aware the journey is a long one."

On Obaseki's achievements in the health sector, Osagie said the efforts of the government to revamp 200 healthcare centres is already yielding fruits, with 20 of them at the verge of completion.

"All these and more will dominate discussions at the Edo people summit, and more importantly, it will be a family affair, where the people will have a chat with their governor," he added.

The 2018 Alaghodaro Summit, which showcases these initiatives, will feature a number of events, which kick off on Friday, November 9, with the EdoJobs Job Fair/Summit holding from 9am to 12am; Women's Summit from 11am to 4pm and a Concert, from 6pm to 10pm.

On Saturday, November 10, the Golf Section of the Benin Club, in GRA, Benin City, will host the Governor's Cup golf tournament. An Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service holds on 10am on Sunday, November 11, while a Luncheon holds by 2pm.

The series of activities lined up for the summit provides a platform to connect with the people and share with them the high sense of commitment to realising government's reforms, programmes and initiatives to improve the socio-economic status of the state and people.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

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


*PHOTO CAPTIONS:*
• Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State

• ALAGHODARO 2018 LOGO

All is set for the celebration of Governor Godwin Obaseki Second year anniversary and the second edition of Alaghodaro summit.

A mega concert to celebrate this milestone events will hold on Friday at King square.

Time ; 6pm-10pm.
Guest performance from sessional Mayorkun, Waje, and lots of other top arts and comedians.

Be there.


Official social media handles to follow for this event ;
Facebook :Alaghodaro2018
Instagram; @alghodaro2018
Twitter; @alaghodaro2018

https://www.facebook.com/austine.oviosun
Follow me for updates.

The Edo State Investment Summit (Alaghodaro) is an initiative of the Edo State Government aimed at promoting innovation and boosting economic productivity in the statethrough collaboration with the private sector.It is in line with the vision of the Godwin Obaseki-led administration to build “a modern and progressive Edo state where every citizen is empowered with opportunity to live life in its fullness.”

It will showcase how Edo State intends to partner with the private sector to leverage the state’s competitive advantage in different sectors for sustainable economic growth. Key areas of focus include youth empowerment (Youth Summit), Role of women in socio economic development and governance (Women summit),Job fair, investment summit.

The 3-day summit is designed to foster knowledge sharing, build relationships, spark innovation and inspire commitment to strategic deployment of capital for greater socio-economic and environmental impact.

Alaghodaro 2018,Progress

More details follow ;https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2044598792264186&id=100001422552987

As part of activities to mark the second year anniversary of his Excellency Governor Godwin Obaseki , Edo state is set to host second in the series of Alaghodaro summit. Alaghodaro 2018 will feature Youth Summit, women summit, Edo summit, Gala night and local business investment summit which will play host to top businessmen and investors.


Get Prepared as we move in the geometric wheel of progress #Alaghodaro 2018.
For Details follow me on; https://www.facebook.com/austine.oviosun

Instagram; @Mr_austeen87
Twitter; @Mr_austeen87.

*Obaseki visits Anenih family, declares three days mourning, flags to fly at half-mast*

*…Govt to give him state burial*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has visited the family of late elder statesman, Chief Anthony Anenih, whose death was reported on Sunday, in an Abuja hospital.

The governor, who was at the Anenihs’ Abuja home, expressed deep sadness over the passing of the former Minister of Works and Housing, and the Iyasele of Esan land.

As a mark of honour for Chief Anenih, the governor declared three days of mourning in the state, starting from Wednesday, October 31st till Friday, November 2.

Obaseki also expressed the state government’s resolve to give the late consummate statesman, a political icon with an outstanding political career, who believed in a prosperous Edo, a state burial while flags are to be flown at half-mast in the state.

The governor was received by the eldest son, Tony Anenih Junior in the company of the former Vice President, Namadi Sambo and other members of the family and friends.

Recall that the governor, on receiving the news of the passing of Chief Anenih, described his death as a huge loss to the state and the nation.

Obaseki said the elder statesman devoted a better part of his life to the development of the state and country, contributing to national development in the various capacities he served while he lived.

He lamented that "The whole of Edo State has suffered a huge loss with the death of Chief Anenih, the Iyasele of Esan land, who ranks as one of the most illustrious sons of the state, adding that Chief Anenih rose to the occasion when it mattered most, to defend the interest of Edo State and her people.

The governor noted that he attracted development to the state and groomed several Edo sons and daughters who are now active players in the nation's political space.

*Edo Govt ready to pay agreed minimum wage, Obaseki Assures*

*…Says State already paying N25,000, ready for N30,000’*

*…clears 50% inherited LGAs' salary arrears, as councils receive N2.8bn October allocation*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has assured workers in the State that his administration will be the first to implement the resolution reached at the emergency meeting between the Federal Government and state governors over the new minimum wage for workers in the country.

Obaseki gave the assurance while addressing members of the organised labour who were on a protest march to the Government House, in Benin City on Tuesday, to sensitise the people on the planned labour strike over the Federal Government's alleged refusal to agree on N30,000 minimum wage for workers across the country.

The assurance is coming after Chairman of Edo State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Comrade Jenkins Osunde, said on Monday, that the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration has cleared 50 per cent of inherited salary arrears owed local government workers in the state.

The governor, in his address to the members of the labour unions, said his administration is already paying N25,000 while other states are paying N18,000, noting, "We believe in labour and our government is labour-friendly that is why we have maintained a harmonious relationship with labour in the state and have not had a single strike in two years".

He informed the protesters that he will be in Abuja to attend a meeting where governors are to deliberate on the minimum wage. "I want to assure you that whatever we agree in Abuja today (Tuesday), Edo State Government will be the first to implement it," he assured.

Obaseki urged the protesters to trust in the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari because of its commitment to reduce the suffering of workers in the country, "The President Muhammadu Buhari I know will never support that Nigerian workers  should suffer because he is committed to the welfare of the common man".

Chairman, Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Edo State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ademokun, commended the Governor for creating a friendly atmosphere that has ensured a harmonious relationship between the government and organised labour in the State.

Earlier, at the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting presided over by the governor at the Government House, Benin City on Monday, Osunde said N2,826,548,288.8 was declared by the committee as gross allocation received from the Federation Account for the month of October 2018.

He added that arrears inherited by the Obaseki-led administration is gradually being cleared as the sum has reduced by 50 per cent.

Osunde, who is also the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, said that primary school teachers' salaries for the month was N1,057,495,670.09, adding that "teachers and non-teachers' salaries gulped N1,113,114,841. The total deduction for the month was N1,706,248,913,34."

According to him, the net allocation shared by the 18 local government areas of the state from the Federation Account was N1,120,299,375.47, while Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from the 18 local government areas for the month of October 2018 was N1,298,091,758.68.

He noted that the state government has continued to meet its salary obligation to workers including salary arrears owed local government workers, which have been paid as and when due since March 2018.

"It is important to note that this month's JAAC meeting has in attendance Chairmen of the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), as observers."

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

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

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S4-001:*
Chairman, Edo State Chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Comrade Jenkins Osunde (middle) addressing journalists after the Joint Account Allocation Committee (JAAC) meeting at Government House, Benin City. With him are: Chairman, Esan South East, Hon. Victor Emuakhagbon (right); and Chairman, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Hon. Akhigbe Osi John.

*S4-002:*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (left) addressing members of the organised labour who were on a protest march to the Government House, in Benin City, on Tuesday, October 30, 2018.

*Obaseki reiterates commitment on prison decongestion, reforms*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his administration will strengthen partnership with the Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS), on the planned decongestion and reforms of prisons in the state.

He made the submission during a courtesy visit by the new Zonal Coordinator of Zone G Command of the Nigeria Prisons Service, Assistant Controller-General Vincent Ubi, at the Government House, in Benin City.

The governor said his administration is partnering with the NPS on prison decongestion by expediting actions on the Committee on Prerogative of Mercy, adding that the partnership with the NPS includes plans to construct a new prison, which will assist in the decongestion of existing prisons in the state.

Obaseki said, “Let us work together to design a new prison and correction centre in the state that will have the necessary facilities and a skills acquisition centre. We need to relocate the Benin Prison away from the city centre and construct a new one.”

Assistant Controller-General, NPS, Vincent Ubi who oversees prisons in Edo, Delta, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi states, noted that one of the problems being faced in Edo State is congestion of prisons.

According to him, there are about 2,835 inmates in the state, with Oko Prison having 1,383 inmates, as against the 608 inmates it was built for, while the Benin Prison has 852 inmates as against the 230 inmates it was built for.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

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

*PHOTO CAPTION:*
*S1-001:*
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd right); his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Hon. Yakubu Gowon (right); Zonal Coordinator of Zone G Command of the Nigerian Prisons Service, Assistant Controller-General, Vincent Ubi (2nd left); Deputy Controller of Prisons (DCP), Administration and Discipline, Edo Joseph, during a courtesy visit by officials of Zone G Command of the Nigerian Prisons Service, to the governor, at the Government House, in Benin City.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commended the Edo State House of Assembly for the judicious use of its resources, which resulted in the facelift of the Anthony Enahoro Assembly Complex.

The governor, who gave the commendation during an inspection visit to the Assembly complex in Benin City, the Edo State capital, said it was noteworthy that the renovation work was carried out through prudent resource management as no special fund was set aside for the exercise.

Obaseki said, “I am happy with what I see here today. I am excited because special allocation or fund was not given for this renovation, but you did this from your regular allocation. I am pleased as the Assembly has properly utilised its fund. It shows you are prudent in spending.”

He said politics is about public service and not self-interest, and expressed delight that the assembly complex is wearing a new look.

Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, who welcomed the governor and his entourage, acknowledged the massive infrastructural development in the state which he said has been extended to the parliament.

He praised the governor for the beautiful and conducive environment in the assembly complex, as members and staff of the Assembly now spend more time in the office, in discharging their duties which has increased productivity.

Majority Leader of the House, Hon. Roland Asoro, expressed appreciation to the governor for the visit, assuring that members of the legislative arm will key into the governor’s developmental programmes to transform Edo State.

Follow Governor Obaseki on Social Media

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

*PHOTO CAPTION:*

*S3_0001:*
Front row: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd left); Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Kabiru Adjoto (left); Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly, Hon. Justice Okonobo (2nd right); and Majority Leader, Hon. Roland Asoro (right), during the governor’s visit to the Anthony Enahoro State Assembly complex, in Benin City, Edo State.