₦airaland Forum

…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.

PHOTO 1:
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.

The Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, has commended the revamp of Primary Health Centres (PHCs) in Edo State, noting that such reforms will allow for proper referral system as a catalyst to develop the health system in the country.

Adewole said this while delivering his keynote address at the 2018 Alagodaro Summit in Benin City, organised by Edo State Government to celebrate the second anniversary of the state Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

He commended the Obaseki-led administration for focusing on health care, pledging the commitment of the federal government in ensuring that the state achieves her aim of having 200 primary health centres in the state by the year 2020.

Adewole, while buttressing the importance of PHCs to the society, decried that their nonfunctional status has overstretched the general and teaching hospitals which are meant for complicated ailments.

The health minister advised the state government that as it revamps the health centres, attention must also be given to preventive medicine, especially on provision of safe water in communities as well as sensitisation on proper hygiene.

According to him, "We spend a lot of money in curative treatment when our problem is at preventive state. We need to change the paradigm and put emphasis on preventive care, health education as well as improving our way of life."

He added that health care system must move beyond just care, and involve a comprehensive care.

"PHC is closer to the people, and if properly invested in, it would provide care for 80 percent of the people while 10 percent would go to secondary and less than 10 percent would go to tertiary health care centres," he said.

The health minister said countries around the world that have recorded improvement in their socio-economic sectors are those that have improved their health indicators.

He commended the Obaseki-led administration for investing in the health sector, assuring him that the return on investment for the health care would be huge.

Adewole also drew attention to the population explosion in the country especially as majority of the population falls below the working age.

The minister congratulated the state for having the highest rate of skilled birth attendant which he said has reduced maternal and infant deaths.

PHOTO 1:
Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole speaking 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.

Emotan Gardens Boosts Job Creation In Edo, As EDPA, Mixta Nigeria Recruit Sales Executives

As work progresses on Emotan Gardens, a 70-hectare estate being developed by the Edo State Government through the Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) and property developer, Mixta Nigeria, the early economic benefits of the project are being harnessed with the recruitment of sales executives to engage with potential subscribers for the over 1400 units in the estate.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City, Executive Chairman, Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA), Isoken Omo, said EDPA and Mixta Nigeria are interviewing a set of sales executives who will be trained on marketing strategies and customer relations, to interface with subscribers for the project.

She said the sales executives are expected to intensify marketing and sales of housing units at the Emotan Gardens Estate to prospective buyers, adding that the first assignment for the sales executives will be at the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit, where they would scout for more subscribers for the houses.

She said those who scale through and are engaged on the project will be paid and benefit from a robust training package, as the training will broaden their knowledge of marketing and customer relations.

Omo added that the sales executives will be expected to push up sales of units at the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit as “we expect business executives wanting to locate their businesses in Benin City, as well as those looking out for conducive accommodation for their staff and management team.”

Head, Business Development and Sales, Mixta Nigeria, Mr. Korede Lawrence, said, in addition to the sales executives who have been engaged to market units at the Emotan Gardens Estate, there are sales representatives on site.

He said that they will “speak languages people understand, offering as much information to give comfort and reassurance. We take every opportunity to put information out there to assure people from day one that you are dealing with the right people.”

According to him, “The multiplier value for a project like this is that wages are paid to sales executives, labourers and others who have been engaged from within. The value will be felt by the people within, regardless of who buys it. Edo State prospers.”


PHOTO:
Ongoing construction of housing units at the Emotan Gardens on Upper Sokponba Road, in Ikpoba-Local Government Area, Benin City, on Wednesday, November 7, 2018

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said that his administration will in two weeks’ time set up an Advisory Council on Persons with Physical Disability to help implement policies geared towards integrating such persons into the society.

Obaseki said this when he received the Report from the Committee on Integrating Physically challenged Persons into the workings of Edo government at Government House in Benin City, on Tuesday.

He stressed that there was need to put in place a governance structure to monitor the implementation of policies that would make life meaningful for persons with physical disabilities.

“As a society, we should show concern and empathy for the most vulnerable persons and among this category are persons with physical disability” he said, and assured that “we will ensure that all of our programmes will have components for persons with special needs”.

He commended the committee for its report and said that the data generated would help the state government in its policy formulation.

He further said that his administration would also work on a policy that will allow employers of labour engage persons with physical disabilities at their workplaces.

Presenting the Report to the governor, chairman of the committee, Dr. Vivian Audu, said about 3,015 physically challenged persons were captured during the state-wide survey.

Audu said majority of those sampled were between ages 18 to 51 and had primary education.

She recommended empowerment in the forms of skills acquisition and interest-free loans, saying "when they are empowered they will not be a burden to themselves and the society.

She also recommended that a policy that would make 10 per cent of persons with physical disabilities employed in workplaces should be formulated by the government.



PHOTO 1:
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd right); Chairman, Committee on Integration of Physically Challenged Persons into the Edo State Government, Dr. (Mrs.), Vivian Audu (2nd left); with other members of the Committee: Barr. Melody Omosah (left); and Dr. George Osawaru (right); when the Committee submitted its Report to the governor, at Government House, Benin City, on Tuesday, November 6, 2018

The Edo State Government on Saturday received relief materials worth N1.6 million from the Afenmai World Congress (AWC), for onward distribution to communities affected by flooding in Edo North Senatorial District.

The items received include 35 bags of rice, 45 bags of garri, 25 cartons of indomie, 18 bags of salt, 50 cartons of washing soap, 100 packs of 50cl bottle water and 216 packs of 75cl bottle water.

Receiving the materials on behalf of the state government, at Ekperi, Etsako Central Local Government Area, Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties, Hon Yakubu Gowon, commended the association for the gesture.

He said, “Few months ago, some communities in the state especially communities close to the River Niger belt experienced unprecedented floods that rendered some people homeless. Following this, the state government relocated some persons to camps where they were provided with materials and made a request for assistance from Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

"Few organisations responded and we are happy today that AWC decided to provide humanitarian aid to the victims despite the fact that the camp has been officially closed,” he added.

Gowon assured members of AWC that the items would be distributed to the victims who have been resettled in their communities.

President, AWC, Dr David Iyalomhe, said the donation was part of the association's efforts to support the socio-economic advancement of Afenmai land, Edo State and Nigeria.

Iyalomhe, who was represented by the organisation’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Columbus Inuwonu, listed the benefiting communities to include: Agenebode/ Unuedegor, Anegbette/South Uneme, Udaba/Ekperi, Uzanu and Warake.

He added, “We commend the timely intervention of the Governor Obaseki led-administration for providing timely assistance, temporary shelter and food to the affected people and communities in Afenmai land.

“AWC looks forward to partnering with the Obaseki administration in executing educational and other developmental projects that will benefit people of various communities in the state.”

Speaking on behalf of the benefitting communities, the Onogie II of Osomegbe-Ekperi, Chief John Musa, described the support from the state government as unprecedented. He commended the AWC for showing love to the people affected by the flooding.


PHOTO 1:
L-R: Representative of the President and Public Relations Officer, Afenmai World Congress (AWC), Mr Columbus Inuwonu, Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Special Duties, Hon. Yakubu Gowon, with other members of AWC and traditional rulers from the benefiting communities, during donations of relief materials to communities affected by flooding in Edo North Senatorial Zone of Edo State, by AWC at the weekend.

Amid the clamour for new investment in the nation’s housing sector to address the deficit, the joint venture partner in the ongoing Emotan Gardens estate project, in Benin City, MIXTA Nigeria, has said that Edo State is set to exit the league of states grappling with inadequate housing.

According to the Head, Business Development & Sales, Mixta Nigeria, Lawrence Korede, “the investment Mixta Nigeria is bringing to Edo State through the 1400-unit Emotan Gardens is substantial and will help address this man’s basic need – housing.”

Korede who spoke to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, explained that his company, with its partner, “Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) have hit the ground running with an initial release of somewhere around 400 housing units.”

“We are doing 2 and 3-bedroom housing units first, which really are the lower priced products, our first release is somewhere around 400 units.”

On the infrastructure that subscribers for the estate will enjoy, he assured that “the plan is to bring value. For us, value is what is on the table. I will go back to our pedigree. We have done this in Nigeria and we are in other countries in Africa, in Senegal, Ivory Coast, among others.

“We have experience in this field. Depending on where we build an estate, we inculcate some amenities and something to change that environment and give value.

“In the case of Emotan Gardens, we will have a one-hectare lake, which is man-made. It would allow the residents relax. Road network is huge for us; electricity is particularly huge for us.”

He added: “In our estates, our pedigree is that we offer 24/7 electricity. It is what we do and what we have done. All of these obviously come at a cost. The plan is that, within that community, in whichever direction you go, you should be able to either go five minutes to leisure or five minutes to an area that is planned specifically for commercial activities.”

He disclosed that “there is a range of people that want to bring their businesses to the commercial areas: hospitals, shopping malls and so on.

“The truth is that it will be a town within a town. That is what an estate is. An estate is that location where you comfortably obtain everything that enriches your life without moving. That is what we want to bring to Emotan Garden,” he stressed.


PHOTOS:
Some of the houses in Emotan Gardens being built by Mixta Nigeria in partnership with Edo Development and Property Agency (EDPA) in Benin City, Edo State.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his administration will on November 1, reward productivity among civil servants, especially those who have continued to demonstrate commitment to discharging their duties.

While presenting cheques to families of deceased state employees under the Life Insurance policy of the State Contributory Pension Scheme at the Government House, Benin City, the governor said that arrangement has been finalised to key into the Federal Government’s Productivity Award programme to recognise and honour deserving, dedicated and hardworking civil servants in the state.

Obaseki urged civil servants to continue to put in more effort to enhance productivity as much is expected from them, adding that government will continue to reward hardwork. “It is on record we pay salaries in Edo State on or before the 26th of every month,” he said.

He maintained that his administration is keen on improving workers’ productivity, noting, “This will enable workers who have put in their best get recognised and rewarded for their hard work and contribution to the state's development.”

The governor said a session will be organised in the first week of November where workers who have displayed exemplary work culture in the last one year will be recognised, as award and prizes will be given to such outstanding civil servants.

Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State Chapter, Comrade Emmanuel Ademokun, praised the governor for the industrial harmony in the past two years.


PHOTO:
Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki (left); Head of Service, Mrs. Gladys Idahor (2nd left); Chairman, Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Emmanuel Ademokun (right), with other officials of the state government, at the presentation of cheques by the governor to beneficiaries of the Life Insurance Policy, at Government House, Benin city, on Monday, October 29, 2018.

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The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, at the weekend paid a surprise visit to political leaders in his ward, Ward 4, in Oredo Local Government Area, a gesture political analysts describe as strategic in deepening relations with grassroots political leaders.

Obaseki remains a strong advocate of ‘Bottom – Top’ approach to governance which ensures development is people-driven and impacts everyone at all levels of the society.

The governor believes it is important for elected public officials to maintain healthy relations with members and leaders of the party at the grassroots, engaging them on developmental issues and seeking their counsel where necessary.

PHOTO 1:
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, addresses party leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in ward 4, Oredo Local Government, Edo State.

The Edo State Government has finalised the audit of roads across the state to determine the areas and level of intervention needed to bring them to good shape, as part of efforts to fast-track improvement in road infrastructure across the state.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the road audit was carried out to provide government with a reliable assessment of road infrastructure with a view to categorising the level of intervention and mobilising resources to fix the roads.

According to Osagie, “Governor Obaseki means business in Edo State. He is out to ensure that contracts awarded for road construction and reconstruction are carried out to specifications and are of the best quality.”

“The data from the audit carried out on the roads give details of roads that need intervention, outlining those that need serious or minimal work to put them in good shape. On a number of the roads, contractors are returning to site to commence work. This will give tax payers value for their money,” he added.

He said that “In areas where construction or reconstruction work is still ongoing, the audit measures progress that has been made and the challenges, if any. Governor Obaseki is clear about the quality of work and expected dates for the completion. The road projects must meet the agreed terms.”

Osagie added that roads are critical components of the Governor Obaseki led-administration’s vision for economic transformation and wealth creation for Edo people as the road projects will not only connect the different parts of the state but open up more areas to economic activities.

He said, “After completing the road audit, contractors will mobilise equipment from their locations towards the various project sites. The governor will be on selected sites to personally flag-off the construction work.”

As preparations for the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit reach advanced stage, the Organised Private Sector (OPS) in Edo State has expressed support for 2018 edition of the summit, lauding Governor Godwin Obaseki’s decision to focus on Edo people.

The OPS in the state include Edo/Delta Chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the Benin Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (BENCCIMA), Miners Association of Nigeria, among others.

A cross-section of top members of the OPS expressed delight at the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit, saying that the event would further endear the government to the people because “indeed the government has shown to be for the people with the many policies and reforms geared to improve the people’s welfare.”

A top executive member of MAN who asked not to be named, said the theme for the summit is appropriate considering how the Governor Obaseki led-administration has carried all stakeholders along in his reforms, and ensuring that government is not hijacked by a few people.

The MAN executive member, who operates a factory in Benin City, noted, “Those of us in the organised private sector are redirecting our operations to align with the state government's policies and programmes to improve the lives of the people, support inclusive growth and promote law and order.”

“If any business fails to do this, then such a business is not people-centered. Because businesses exist to provide solutions to people’s problems. The choice of the theme, for me, shows that the state has been carrying people along and intends to even extend its efforts to affect more people.

A member of BENCCIMA, Mr. Benson Osazuwa, said “I am pleased with the choice of the theme for the 2018 Alaghodaro Summit. It will provide us with a template to access government policies and see how it can help everyone lead better lives.”

Osazuwa noted, “if every member of the organised private sector supports government in its skills development and jobs creation programmes which are ongoing, it will benefit us the most, as it would increase proficiency of prospective employees and also assist in reducing crime in the state.”

Edo Govt Restricts Movement Around Oba Ovoranmwen Square For Oba Ewuare II’s Coronation Anniversary

The Edo State Government has announced the restriction of movement around Oba Ovoranmwen Square (Ring Road), Benin City, on Saturday, October 20, to reduce traffic congestion in the area and allow space for the activities marking the 2nd Coronation Anniversary of His Royal Majesty, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolo Kpolo, Oba Ewuare II.

In a statement, Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Osaze Osemwengie-Ero, urged residents in the area to use the alternative roads around the King's Square for the period, as there would be traffic officers on duty to guide them.

According to him, “This is to bring to the notice of the general public, especially motorists, traders and residents around Oba Ovoranmwen Square (Ring Road), Benin City that on Saturday, 20th October 2018, the area will be closed to vehicular traffic, due to the activities of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolo Kpolo, Ewuare II, N’Ogidigan, Oba of Benin.”

“Motorists are advised to use the alternative roads around the King's Square for the period of the event, as they will be guided by traffic officers on duty,” he added.

He said the state government will appreciate strict compliance with this directive.

Obaseki Lauds 9-Year Jail Term For Human Trafficker, Backs Special Court For Offence

The Edo State Governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has hailed the judgement of Justice Mohammed Liman of a Federal High Court in Benin City, who on Tuesday, sentenced Mrs Christy Ehiorobo to nine years imprisonment for engaging in human trafficking.

Obaseki said the judgement is a triumph of good over evil and assured that other traffickers will have their days in court soon.

The governor said: “I commend the courage of the High Court Judge for serving Mrs. Christy Ehiorobo, a 9-year jail term for engaging in human trafficking. The judgement has given further bite to our resolve to rid Edo State of human traffickers who are exploiting our youth.”

He noted that “With the support we are receiving from critical stakeholders such as the judiciary, the Royal Palace of the Benin Monarch and the legislature, in the fight against human trafficking, I am convinced that we will win the fight.”

Obaseki further said that he has thrown his weight behind the decision of the Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen to dedicate two specialised courts to hear human trafficking cases.

“I have thrown my weight behind the decision of the Edo State Chief Judge, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen to designate two courts to hear human trafficking offences in order to give accelerated hearing to such cases. The decision of the chief judge is innovative as it will fast-track the dispensation of justice in human trafficking and related cases," he added.

According to media reports, a Federal High Court, sitting in Benin, on Tuesday, sentenced a 49-year-old woman, Mrs Christy Ehirobo, to nine years imprisonment for human trafficking.

Justice Mohammed Liman, in his judgment, held that human trafficking had eaten deep into the fabric of society, adding that despite the plea of mercy by the convict, the law must take its cause.

“The accused is therefore sentenced to three years imprisonment on each of the three counts to run concurrently,” the judge was quoted as saying.

The convict, also known as Helen Ehirobo and Mama Jennifer, hails from Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo, State and had been standing trial since 2011.

Poverty Eradication: Obaseki Faults Old Strategies, Advocates Tech-Based Solutions To Break Chain

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has faulted the age-old poverty reduction strategies adopted by some development experts and political leaders, which failed to prioritise and integrate modern technology.

Obaseki made the submission on the occasion of the commemoration of International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, marked on October 17, each year.

According to the governor, “With current global trends, development experts and political leaders that ignore the power and revolutionary force inherent in modern technology, do so at their own peril.”

He maintained that it was time for development actors across the globe to embrace disruptive measures that thrive on modern technology to break the chain of poverty.

Calling on world leaders to eliminate man-made barriers to prosperity, the governor said, “We all must rise against retrogressive practices such as corruption and cultural practices that disempower women; caste and other systems that stratify society, alienate and exlude some people from participating in socio-economic activities.”

“Beyond culture, thought leaders must harness the manifest and latent gains in modern technology to solve problems and create wealth through innovation,” he added.

He explained that his “administration’s conviction about the power of modern technology informed the setting up of the Edo Innovation Hub, which is creating a new army of innovators that are their own bosses, creating jobs and solution applications worth millions of dollars.”

Obaseki said: “To illustrate, the agricultural value chain beckons on our youth to tap into. By simply flipping your smart phone or tapping your keyboard, anyone can market agricultural produce in the internet-enabled market place, from the comfort of their homes. Same goes for other products and services.”

He maintained that “in the face of the myriad of challenges facing the world’s extreme poor, ranging from poor infrastructure and capacity, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) offers hope and opportunities for as many people that want to cut the chain of poverty.”

According to the United Nations, this year marks the 25th anniversary of the declaration by the General Assembly, in its resolution 47/196 of 22 December 1992, of 17 October as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.

“This year also marks the 30th anniversary of the Call to Action by Father Joseph Wresinski — which inspired the observance of October 17 as the World Day for Overcoming Extreme Poverty – and the recognition by the United Nations of the day as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty.”

The UN notes that this year’s theme: Coming Together With Those furthest Behind to Build an Inclusive World of Universal Respect for Human Rights and Dignity, reinforces the “fundamental connection between extreme poverty and human rights, and that people living in poverty are disproportionately affected by many human rights violations.”

World Food Day: Obaseki Harps On Improved Support To Farmers, Assures On Food Sufficiency Measures

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the state government is pursuing a far-reaching programme on agriculture that prioritises support for farmers to enable them contribute to attaining food sufficiency in the state.

The governor said this in commemoration of World Food Day, marked every October 16, by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), and other organs of the United Nations (UN).

Obaseki said that some of the agricultural programmes and policies of the state government include the Edo Food and Agriculture Cluster (Edo-FAC), the revamp of the Edo State Fertiliser and Chemical Company Limited, as well as creating the environment for private investors in the agricultural sector to flourish. He said these efforts are geared to stamp out hunger and achieve the Zero Hunger target set for 2030 as captured in the Zero Hunger Challenge.

According to him, “As we mark the World Food Day, I congratulate farmers for their immense contribution to feeding the country, toiling in the farm to ensure that we have food on the table. It is important to highlight the difficulty many farmers go through in making this happen. But, as a government, we are committed to reducing this stress and the losses faced by farmers in rural arears.

“We have just set up Edo-FAC, at Ehor, to serve at least 3000 farmers in the area, with the full complement of a training centre to build capacity and fast-track access to market. The state also enjoys the presence of plantation owners that are rapidly expanding due to the conducive environment we have created to drive inclusive growth.”

According to the World Food Programme (WFP), World Food Day is about Zero Hunger—a Global Goal for the world to achieve together. We have 15 years to end hunger for every child, women and man around the world. Reaching it will save countless lives and build brighter futures for us all. Help us ensure the world does not forget the promise it has made by sharing #ZeroHunger in your community.”

Disaster Reduction: Obaseki Calls For Synergy, Adequate Preparedness To Curb Human, Economic Losses

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for preparedness and adequate planning among relevant stakeholders to reduce human and economic losses from flooding, which is ravaging many states across the country.

The governor said this on the commemoration of the International Day for Disaster Reduction marked by the United Nations and relevant emergency organisations across the globe.

He said though the state government was hit by the last flooding episode recorded across the country, the provision of emergency services by the state government and its agents, was able to considerably reduce the losses.

Harping on the need for more synergy to be formed with relevant agencies to mitigate the economic losses of flooding, he said, “On this day, it is important to stress that as much as we are mitigating human losses, we should also set up structures to reduce economic losses from disasters and, when they occur, provide succor for victims.

“With this year’s theme focusing on accounting for the economic losses in disaster situation, it is imperative to stress the place of support for rehabilitating those affected by disasters within the state and beyond.”

He said the state government had set up emergency shelters and camps across flood-prone areas in the state to stem the hazards from natural disasters, urging for more support to the state to maintain such structures to ease the impact of disasters on people.

He assured that the state government is beefing up its emergency management system to reflect the needs of modern disaster management, adding that his administration will not relent in providing support to people affected by natural disasters.

According to the United Nations, “Millions of people are displaced every year, losing their homes and jobs because of extreme weather events and earthquakes.

However, not all countries report systematically on the economic losses from major disaster events, according to a new report prepared by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction.”

This year’s International Day aims to highlight the need for Member States to improve data collection on disasters, including comprehensive accounting of economic losses, the UN added.

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The Edo State Government in partnership with Concerned Citizens of Edo State, a Non-Government Organisation, have taken the campaign against human trafficking to Uromi and environs in Edo Central Senatorial District, in a renewed effort to mobilise public support for government's efforts to curb the incidence of human trafficking and irregular migration.

Officials of the state government and the group stormed markets and densely populated areas in Uromi, notably Angle 80, Amedokhian, Ojuromi Ultra-Modern Market, Ivue Market, among others, to drive the message and engage the people on the dangers of illegal migration.

President of the NGO, Mr. Ogbewi Aghedo, said that the group was out to spread word on the dangers of human trafficking as available data on the trend showed that the menace is endemic in Edo State, thus requiring concerted effort from all stakeholders to discourage people from thinking that irregular migration is the only way to survive.

According to him, “We are here to join our voice with government’s campaign against irregular migration and human trafficking. Any right-thinking Edo person would not be proud of the stigma that the menace of irregular migration has brought on our noble land. What we are here to do today is to tell the people that they should stop encouraging their people to travel illegally. Rather, they should exploit legal means to migrate.

“Our mandate is simple. We believe that government is doing a lot to discourage this trend. The people should also do their part. That is why we are pushing for the people to get the message, to see that their people who they think may have crossed over to Europe, may just be suffering in Libya or are even dead.

“So this is why we are here. We have been to major markets and the densely populated parts of Uromi. This follows similar campaigns we have done in Benin City, which has changed the attitude of several people towards illegal migration.”

Some of the residents in the areas applauded the sensitisation campaign and commended government and the group for raising awareness on the menace.

A trader, who identified herself as Madam Ebosele, said that she was alarmed by the horrors young people go through in Libya on their way to Europe, thanking the Edo State Government for leading the campaign against the menace and the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II for support the efforts.


PHOTO 1:
President, Concerned Citizens of Edo State (right), Mr. Ogbewi Aghedo, sensitising people on the dangers of human trafficking in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state at the weekend.

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In what has been described as a proactive move to ensure sustainability in its operational efficiency, Edo Innovation Hub, a brainchild of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration in Edo State, has entered into a partnership with the Market Development in the Niger Delta (MADE), which covers the hub’s management as well as capacity building for youths in the Niger Delta region.

The partnership will see MADE, a project funded by the United Kingdom’s Department for International Development (DFID), support the hub with critical expertise required to ensure sustainability and other support structures to boost employability of youths.

Speaking at the signing of the deal on the partnership at the Edo Innovation Hub in Benin City, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor on Skills Development and Job Creation, Mrs. Ukinebo Dare, said that the hub has reaped the first fruit of the partnership with the recruitment of the hub manager to manage the affairs of the hub, interface with investors, secure partnership deals, ensure sustained inflow of projects and engage with the state’s budding tech community.

According to her, “We are very happy to have signed this partnership with MADE on the management of the hub. It is the first phase of ensuring a sustainability programme for what we are doing here, as the kinds of programmes and projects that happen at the hub can only find full expression if we get experts to do the job and engage with the tech community in Nigeria and beyond.”

Dare said that the partnership with MADE is one out of many of such deals the hub is willing to enter into, to ensure that operations at the hub is not only seamless, but that those who will be using the hub will have confidence in the system.

Noting that the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration is keen on ensuring that youths find expression in the unfolding digital revolution sweeping through the world, she said, “We are very much in tune with what is happening across the globe, especially with the rise of digital innovation. So we are happy to work with partners such as MADE to bring this opportunities to our people in Nigeria.”

She said the partnership has different components, some of which include support for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), capacity building and market development for enterprises in different product value chains.

Photo 1:
Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Edo State Governor on Skills Development and Jobs Creation, Mrs. Ukinebo Dare (right) and Manager, Edo State Investment Portfolio of the Market Development in the Niger Delta (MADE) II project, Rufus Idris, during the signing of a partnership deal on the Edo Innovation Hub, in Benin City.

Obaseki Congratulates Winners Of Edo APC National, State Assemblies’ Primary Elections

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has congratulated all the candidates that emerged from the peaceful October 4, National and State Assemblies’ primary elections of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held across the state.

He called on all members of the party to come together and work as a team to ensure the party triumphs in the 2019 general elections.

He expressed his gratitude to the organisers of the primary elections for the orderly and peaceful process that produced the candidates that have been adjudged worthy of flying the party’s flag at the next general elections, and can mobilise their followers for the emphatic triumph of President Muhammadu Buhari and other candidates of the party in next year’s elections.

Obaseki urged members of the party to ignore media publications attempting to cast aspersions on the primary elections that were declared peaceful, free and fair across the state.

Photo 1:
Cross-section of Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) party members during the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Primary Elections for National Assembly and State House of Assemblies, in Ward 7, Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State.

Photo 2:
Cross-section of Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) party members, during the Edo State All Progressives Congress (APC) Primary Elections for National Assembly and State House of Assemblies, in Ward 10, Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State.

Obaseki Challenges Electorates To Demand Transparency From Political, Other Leaders

The Edo State governor, Mr Godwin Obaseki, has challenged Nigerian electorates to demand transparency from persons holding leadership positions.

Obaseki threw the challenge during the launch of Open Niger Delta (OPENED) Campaign project in collaboration with the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

He commended ANEEJ for the OPENED initiative, which the governor said is in line with the state’s open government policy, and assured of his administration’s readiness to drive the campaign in the Niger Delta region.

The governor, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr Taiwo Akerele, said the state has put in place institutional framework to ensure due process is followed in the execution of projects, adding that the state government publishes all contracts above N10 million as well as her annual financial statements.

Obaseki noted that behavioural change amongst citizens was essential in the fight against corruption in the country and advised the electorates to vote only leaders who are transparent and ready to deliver good governance in the country.

Rev David Ugolor, executive director of ANEEJ, said OPENED project is supported by Bread for the World Protestant Development Service with the goal of mainstreaming Open Government Partnership (OGP) principles in the Niger Delta states.

Ugolor explained that OPENED was designed to encourage states within the Niger Delta region to adopt measures that will improve transparency, accountability and good governance in the region.

"Edo State has joined the OGP which requires that participating governments enter into a co-creation process with civil society to develop commitment in the fight against corruption, public participation in governance and empowerment of citizens," he said.

Photo 1:
L-R: Special Adviser to Edo State Governor on Gender Issues, Ms. Efosa Uyigue; representative of Governor Godwin Obaseki and Chief of Staff, Chief Taiwo Akerele; Executive Director, Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Rev. David Ugolor; Guest Speaker, Dr. Oscar Ubhenin; and representative of the State Attorney General, Mrs. Felicia Monyei; during the launching of the Open Niger Delta, (OPENED) Campaign, at the Government House in Benin City, Edo State.­­­

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has had an audience with President Muhammadu Buhari over plea for presidential pardon for former Governor of Old Bendel State (now Edo and Delta States), late Prof. Ambrose Alli.

The President has subsequently instructed the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, to begin the process.

Governor Obaseki disclosed this during the Memorial Service held in honour of late Prof. Alli at the Saint Ambrose Catholic Church, in Emaudo, Ekpoma on Saturday, September 22, 2018.

He said he is optimistic that at the next meeting of the Council on Prerogative of Mercy, the President will officially grant the pardon.

Obaseki also assured that he is working with his Delta State counterpart to set modalities to ensure that pension due to late Alli will be paid to his widow and the family.

The governor lauded the former governor’s development strides while he held sway as the governor of what is now Delta and Edo States, noting that the feats are not just intimidating but showed how much can be achieved in just one term in office.

According to him, “I had an audience with President Muhammadu Buhari while in China and discussed the issue of a presidential pardon for late Prof. Alli and the president asked me to meet with the Attorney General of the Federation. This I have done and have also written to him.”

Delta State Governor, Mr. Ifeanyi Okowa said Delta State will continue to remember Alli for developing the state and has a lot to thank him for. “We are grateful, as his developmental strides can still be seen, years after his death,” he said.

The former governor’s eldest son, Mr. Andrew Folorunso Alli, who is the Ezomo of Ekpoma, regretted that his late father was still termed a criminal despite his contributions to the development of Delta and Edo states and Nigeria.

Source: http://thebellng.com/obaseki-approaches-buhari-seeks-official-pardon-for-ambrose-alli/

Photo 1:
L-R: Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; His Deputy, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu; Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Esohe Ikponmwen; and Ezomo of Ekpoma, Chief Andrew Folorunso Alli, during the 29th Anniversary Mass held in honour of Late Prof. Ambrose Alli, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, in Ekpoma.

Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has urged political actors and their supporters in Osun State to shun acts capable of threatening the peaceful conduct of the gubernatorial election holding in the state on Saturday, September 22.

Obaseki made the call in commemoration of the International Day of Peace, marked every September 21, by the United Nations (UN) and its various organs.

The governor said, “Political actors and their supporters in Osun State should eschew acts capable of threatening the peaceful conduct of the polls. This is the least anyone could ask for in such a contest.”

He noted, “It is important for political actors to work together to engender peace before, during and after the elections. This must be the watchword in such a contest and I believe necessary measures have been put in place to ensure that the peaceful conduct of the election.”

Obaseki noted that as the country prepares for the 2019 polls, a non-violent approach to resolving disagreements must be adopted, stressing, “As political parties work towards the 2019 elections, and the campaigns build to a fever pitch, Nigerians would be better off with a non-violent approach to accommodating opposing political views. Conscious efforts must be made to avoid acts that threaten peaceful living which is the foundation of socio-economic development.”

The governor commended the UN on the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and for promoting peace across the globe, adding, “Our commitment to peaceful resolution of conflicts has been demonstrated in resolving communal clashes and adherence to the rule of law. We have done this by passing and upholding laws that place everyone on the same level before the law no matter how highly placed they are in society. At the same time, we appreciate the role of the UN and civil rights groups who work in ensuring peace among humans.”

According to the United Nations, the 2018 Theme for the International Day of Peace is: “The Right to Peace - The Universal Declaration of Human Rights at 70,” which marks the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

The Universal Declaration states in Article 3 that everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person. These elements according to the global body “build the foundation of freedom, justice, and peace in the world.”