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Edo Govt Mulls Sick Bays In Public Schools, As NLTF Donates First aid Kits To 9 Schools

The Edo State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Emmanuel Agbale, has revealed plans by the state government to fit selected public schools in the state with sick bays manned by medical staff.

Agbale disclosed this during the presentation of First Aid kits by the South-South Zone of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF) to nine public schools in the state.

He expressed appreciation to NLTF for picking Edo State as a beneficiary of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project. He noted that the equipment would be put to effective use, as the state plans to establish sick bays in public schools to be supported by doctors and nurses from the state's health institutions.

The Commissioner appealed for the state government’s input in the selection of schools to benefit from its CSR gestures, as it was in a better position to identify disadvantaged schools, noting that this would increase the impact of its efforts.

Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mrs. Ruth Obahiagbon, lauded the NLTF over the quality of the equipment, adding that NLTF should not relent in its efforts to support government in providing essential needs.

The Legal Head, NLTF, South/South Zone, Mr. Ekene Ekweozor explained that the essence of the NLTF intervention is to ensure students and pupils have access to quality health care in schools and reduce the high rate of injuries in schools. He said the equipment will provide the school with tools to better manage emergencies.

The first aid cabinets handed over to representatives of the selected benefitting schools contain stethoscopes, curved scissors, drugs, latex gloves, amongst others.

Photo 1:
Edo State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Emmanuel Agbale (middle), during the presentation of First Aid kits by the South/South Zone of the National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTF), in Benin City, Edo State.

…As students jostle for spots in Huawei’s Seed for the Future Programme

Committed to Governor Godwin Obaseki’s vision to build the capacity of youths to drive the Edo State’s fledging technology ecosystem, Edo State Polytechnic Usen, has sealed a deal with leading global Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions provider, Huawei, to set up a Huawei Authorised Information Network Academy (HAINA) at the school.

The partnership resulted in the hosting of a workshop for students of the polytechnic to bring them up to speed with latest technologies in the tech sector.

Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Abiodun Falodun, who disclosed this in a chat with journalists, noted that students of the school now have access to top-of-the-range resources to acquire marketable skills and contribute to the state’s tech revolution.

He added that the partnership will see the students participate in Huawei’s ‘Seeds for the future’ programme, noting “The programme seeks to develop local Information and Communication Technology (ICT) talent, enhance knowledge transfer, promote a greater understanding of and interest in the ICT sector, and improve and encourage regional building and participation in the digital community.”

He explained that through the programme, selected top university and polytechnic students will take a study trip to China.

“Over the course of the programme, Huawei shares its ICT expertise and experience in managing a multinational corporation with young ICT professionals, and helps fuel the development of local ICT industries,” he added.

He said HAINA is non-profit that provides institutions with resources and tools to up-skill students with up-to-date skills relevant in the Information Technology (IT) industry.

According to him, “the Academy will train our students and make them more marketable in the ICT industry. Huawei Academy does not only offer network courses, but also offers in-demand courses such as HCNA-Storage or HCS field server to students.”

Explaining that the ICT sector holds a lot of opportunities for skilled graduates and offers one of the quickest means for securing decent jobs, he said, “The Polytechnic believes ICT is absolutely important. The programme is part of Governor Obaseki’s initiatives to empower and create jobs for the youths, especially graduates of the polytechnic and equip them to be job creators. The programme will support the existing ICT facilities in the institution and create ICT hubs called Huawei Academy in Edo Poly, Usen.”

Every life indeed matters in Edo.

Excel in heaven little Victoria!

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Photo 2:
Late Miss Victoria Oparanti, the 6-year-old that was washed away by flood in the five-junction axis of Benin City.

…takes mother to hospital for treatment

...to erect cautionary signs on dangerous spots

Members of the Edo State Executive Council have visited the family of late Victoria Oparanti, a 6-year-old pupil of New Generation Group of Schools, who was washed away by flood in the five-junction axis of Benin City, on her way back from school.

Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, who led the state government’s delegation to late Victoria’s home at Osama Lane, Wire Road, in Benin City, said that Governor Godwin Obaseki was deeply pained by the unfortunate incident, and extends his condolences to her parents and other members of her family.

He assured that preventive measures would be put in place in the area to forestall re-occurrence.

"The governor is touched by the unfortunate incident, as his responsibility as a governor is to protect lives and property in the state. We share in your grief as a government and are doing all to ensure that such does not happen again,” he said.

He assured that the state government is repositioning the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to respond faster to crises and emergencies, noting that in a few days’ time, the state will set up emergency call centers, for residents to contact government officials during emergency.

Ohonbamu said steps are already being taken to barricade the drainage and install signposts to notify people of potential danger while walking close to the drains.

Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Ms. Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku, who was also in the entourage, condoled with the family, assuring that a search party is on the lookout for the child’s corpse.

“I want to assure you that the search to recover the body of your late daughter is on. The government will not rest until it is found. In a matter of days, we will provide road signs to notify people of potential danger and the existence of such large drains on the affected portions of the road.”

The delegation also visited Pa Omoruyi Idiaghe, the Okaidun of Iyesegie street, where the family resides, and consoled them over the unfortunate incident. Pa Idiaghe thanked the team for the visit, urging the state government to install the cautionary signs at the spot, to forestall future occurrence.

“This woman just moved to this area a month ago. She is a very good woman, respectful and responsible. It is so painful that such happened to her,” he said.

The delegation later took the mother of the late Victoria, Mrs. Bright Oparanti, who sustained injuries while struggling with her daughter in the flood incident, to Specialist Hospital in Benin City, for treatment.

The delegation also includes Commissioner for Art, Culture, Tourism and Diaspora, Hon. Osazee Osemwegie-Ero; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie.

Late Victoria was in Kindergarten 3 at New Generation Group of Schools. Said to be well-behaved and amiable, she and her parents worship at Assemblies of God Church in the area.

Photo 1:
L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu; Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku; parents of Victoria Oparanti, the 6-year-old flood victim, Mrs. Bright Oparanti and Mr. Niyi Oparanti; when officials of the state government paid a condolence visit to their residence in Uselu, Benin City, on Wednesday, July 18, 2018.

…mourns death of student, sets up emergency response centers

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has reiterated that his administration shall not mortgage law, order and the development of the state for political patronage.

The governor also mourned the electrocution of a Junior Secondary School (JSS) 3 student of Eyaen Secondary School as well as a boy-child who died due to flooding at the five-junction axis of Benin City.

Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, disclosed these after an extra-ordinary session of the State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting, in Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital.

He said the state government is focused on developing the state and will not be distracted by the antics of jobbers, spoilers and opportunists, calling on the people to be wary of their antics as the election season approaches.

According to him, “The Chairman-in-council and Governor of Edo State, urges Edo people to be focused on development and not to be distracted by the antics of jobbers, spoilers and poisoners of goodwill. He resolved that the position of these opportunists is well known, and they will not be negotiated with.

“The governor holds tenaciously to the social contract with the people. He will not negotiate his duty to the people, to suit the desires and wishes of individual interests whether within or outside the political party. The governor maintained that as the political season approaches, development of the state will not be determined by the interests of few individuals, urging the people to hold steadfast to their faith in government and the commitment to sustainable, inclusive development.”

On the death of the boy-child, he said the governor is saddened by the incident, adding, “The Chairman-in-council regrets the death of a boy-child in the five-junction axis of Benin City, due to flooding. In the process of repositioning the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), he said the state government is setting up call centers, to ensure fast response to emergencies, in the coming days.”

He added, “EXCO also mourned the electrocution of a Junior Secondary School (JSS) 3 student of Eyaen Secondary School, which happened on Thursday, July 12, 2018. EXCO has ordered immediate investigation to determine the culpability of any individual or organisations in the incident.”

He said the state government has initiated the pilot phase of the government’s grassroots development roadmap, with the inauguration of Ward Development Committees in Uhunmwode and Orhionmwon Local Government Areas.

He said, “As the committees meet with Government Ministries, Agencies and Departments (MDAs), to articulate their development needs and a sustainable approach to their delivery, he decided that the state government will commence the roll out of the model to other local councils in the state.

“He assured that the committees do not have any political undertone, as various interests are captured as can be gleaned from the composition of the committee, which includes, a traditional ruler, a youth, a woman, retired nurse and teacher and a member of other political parties.”

Obaseki’s Education Reform: Edo Poly Usen, BEDC Hold Career Fair, Deepen Town-Gown Synergy

The management of Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, and the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Plc have entered into a partnership to deepen the input of the Polytechnic’s Electrical/Electronics and Mechanical Engineering programmes, in the operations of the electricity company, starting with the hosting of a career talk and fair.

The event, which holds on July 20 at the Polytechnic premises, for the students, especially those in the departments of Electrical/Electronics and Mechanical Engineering of the institution, will host top executives of BEDC, who will be on the lookout for new recruits for the company.

Rector of the Edo State Polytechnic, Prof. Biodun Falodun, who disclosed this in a chat with journalists, said that the institution is expanding its frontiers to explore sustainable partnerships with national and multinational companies and training students to not only be employable after graduation but also self-sustaining.

He said the partnership with BEDC is a first in the institution’s drive to court and deepen town-gown collaborations which are expected to boost the school’s capacity to better respond to the needs of the society.

Noting that the partnership will see BEDC train and recruit graduates from the school into its workforce, he said, “Edo State Polytechnic, Usen has concluded plans to partner and collaborate with national and multinational corporations beginning with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company PLC (BEDC). This new synergy would afford BEDC the ample opportunity to recruit, train and employ graduates of the school into their workforce.”

He said the fair is one of the strategies to actualise the dreams of Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for the school, adding, “We train and produce graduates who do not only fit into the various industries all over the world, but also create jobs for other Nigerians. I call on all well-meaning individuals and corporate entities to avail themselves of the ultra-modern equipment and competent and dedicated manpower that abound in the Polytechnic.”

Chief Corporate Service Officer, BEDC Plc, Mr. Kunbi Labiyi, said that the company was pleased to work in conjunction with the Polytechnic, and is committed to organising the fair. He said the company will be on the look-out for new recruits.

Ekiti Governorship Election: Obaseki Congratulates Fayemi On Victory, Commends INEC, Media, Others

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has congratulated the governor-elect in Ekiti State, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, on his victory at the polls, commending the people of Ekiti for returning to the league of the progressives.

In a statement, the governor said that the outcome of the election is “a reflection of the many successes that await the All Progressives Congress (APC) in future elections and validates our growing popularity as a party as we strive to meet the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians and friends of our dear country.”

According to him, “I join millions of Nigerians in the country and beyond to congratulate the Ekiti State Governor-elect, Dr. Kayode Fayemi on his victory at the gubernatorial poll in Ekiti State.

“I also commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for ensuring that the wishes of Ekiti people prevailed in our collective commitment to consolidate on the gains of our fledging democracy.”
Noting that the election will open a new vista for development in Ekiti State, he said, “The latest political development in Ekiti State, opens a new vista of opportunities for the good people of Ekiti State, who have joined the list of progressives in the country.”

Charging the governor-elect to rebuild the state, he noted, “The Governor-elect, Dr Kayode Fayemi is a global personality of note, with demonstrable competence for good and purposeful governance, at the state and federal levels, and his second coming will elevate Ekiti State to the height that befits the men and women of honour in Ekiti State, celebrated for their high premium on education.

Governor Obaseki commended various stakeholders in the elections on their roles in ensuring a successful poll, adding, “I salute the courage and sacrifices of the electorates, local and international election monitors and observers, the media, security agencies and members of our great party, the APC, for their insistence on a free and fair election.”

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...lays block for Baba Rabi Foundation

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the state government is reviewing the operations of orphanages, old people's homes, remand centres, schools for people with special needs and other such centres for vulnerable persons, for efficiency and improved impact.

Obaseki disclosed this during the Foundation-laying ceremony for Baba Rabi Foundation at Uzairue, in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.

He noted, “We are reviewing how orphanages, old people's homes, remand centers, schools for people with special needs, and centres catering for vulnerable persons are managed in the state. As a government, we will do all it takes to support people with goodwill as we are ready to work with them to help us reach out to more vulnerable persons in our society.”

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commiserated with the family of Ambassador Queen Worlu, an indigene of the state and Nigeria’s Ambassador to Sao Tome and Principe, whose passing was announced on Tuesday night.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, the governor said the death of Amb. Worlu was a huge loss to the state and the country at large, noting that her reputation as a disciplined career diplomat was worth emulating.

According to him, “I received with shock, news of the passing of Ambassador Queen Worlu (nee Ogiamien), who has had an illustrious, enviable career as a diplomat. On behalf of the good people of Edo State and the state government, I commiserate with her family. We have indeed lost a rare gem, who shone brightly in her assignment as a diplomat to India, Portugal and recently to Sao Tome and Principe.”

He said the passing of Amb. Worlu was even more painful because the state is at a point where youth need inspiration from illustrious sons and daughters of the state, to act as role models, noting, “We are, however, blessed with the memory that she represented our state meritoriously and made us proud while she lived.
“The state government is deeply saddened by the loss,” he said, calling on Edo youth to emulate the Ambassador’s knack for excellence and dedication to duty.

Obaseki’s Grassroots Devt Drive: Edo MDAs, Uhunmwode Ward Devt C’ttees Meet, Brainstorm On Priorities

Consequent upon the inauguration of ward development committees in Uhunmwode Local Government Area by the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, relevant government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are meeting with the committees to brainstorm and agree on development projects for the council.

The committees, set up few weeks ago by the governor, is a non-partisan platform that aggregates interest of the various wards in the local government and prioritises sustainable projects and initiative for rapid development in collaboration with government agencies. A brainchild of Governor Obaseki, the committees’ work is being spearheaded by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Osaro Idah.

Each ward development committee includes two women, two youth, a traditional ruler, one retired or serving teacher and nurse, one member of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), a member of an opposition party and a religious leader.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Basic Education and Acting Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, said that a team comprising officials and representatives of key MDAs, including Ministry of Infrastructure, SUBEB, Edojobs, Post-Primary Education Board, among others, would continue engagement with the ward committees and a meeting has already been scheduled to reach a consensus on priority projects.

According to her, “After Governor Obaseki inaugurated the committees, we have been in touch and are working to align the development imperatives to meet pressing demands. So, we will be meeting with the committees in Uhunmwode on Tuesday and Wednesday and that of Orhionmwon by Thursday and Friday.

Chief Osaro Idah said, “It is important to emphasis that the committees are non-political in nature. We are going to be holding extensive discussions with them, surveying the environment and developing a shopping list and costing for projects.”

Noting that the delegation will be working within existing development plans for the communities, he noted, “We intend to align the development needs of the wards with the MDAs' strategic plans and also prioritise them according to the most pressing of needs. The initiatives are going to be rolled out in August.”

Chief Idah added that the state government was committed to grassroots development, which inspired the setting up of the committees. Noting that the strategy will about coordinated and people-driven development in the grassroots, he urged members of the different wards to work with the committees and the state government in actualizing the different projects to be initiated.

Revamp Of Benin Technical College Reaches Advanced Stage As Edo Govt Calls For Bids To Construct Workshops, Labs, Others

As Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, advances on repositioning the state as the hotbed for technical and vocational education, the state government has concluded plans for construction of workshops, classrooms, laboratories, resource centres and purchase of top-of-the-range equipment for the Benin Technical College, also known as the Government Science and Technical College (GSTC), in Benin City.

In a statement, Special Adviser, Media and Communication Strategy to the Governor, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, said the state government seeks bids from contractors for the rehabilitation work as well as fitting the college with requisite equipment for world-class technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

He said the project is being handled by the GSTC Benin Rehabilitation Programme Office.

Osagie stated that government is refurbishing nine existing buildings, construct four classroom blocks, two workshops, a specialist training centre as well as general site works and services.

According to him, the equipment would enable the students to gain skills and knowledge in various aspects of vocational education to enable them drive the industrialisation policy in the state and compete with their contemporaries across the globe.

He noted that the Knowledge Resource Centre at the College would serve the needs of the students and teachers at the college, adding that fittings that would be purchased include, “furniture for reception, books shelving and minimal seating as well as, supply of books.”

The equipment to be purchased, according to the statement, include those for, “Auto-Electrical Works; Building Construction/Bricklaying, Block-laying & Concreting Works; Electrical Installation; Mechanical Engineering Craft Practice; Motor Vehicle Mechanic Works; Radio, TV & Electronics Works; Refrigeration & Air-conditioning Works; Vehicle Body Building & Repair/ Auto-mobile Maintenance.

"We are also purchasing Laboratory Equipment for Technical Drawing Department.”

He added that government is purchasing 2000 units of combined desks and chairs as well as furniture for Administrative Block and Dining Hall.

Recall that the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration has prioritised TVET as a part of the state’s industrialisation drive, and is committed to rehabilitating the GSTC as a model technical school to produce critical technical manpower for industries making in-roads to the state, in the wake of a spike in investments by manufacturing companies, among others.

… Commends retired military officers' sacrifice

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has revealed plans to pass into law, a bill to set up a Security Trust Fund for the state, as part of measures to revamp the security architecture.

Obaseki disclosed this when executive members of the Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers Association of Nigeria (RANAO), Edo State Chapter, paid a courtesy visit to the governor at the Government House in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

He noted, “As part of the rethinking of the state’s security architecture, we will, very shortly, pass into law the new Security Trust Fund Bill, which is going to be the anchor on which our security architecture will be built on.”

The governor commended members of RANAO for their contributions to the security of the country, noting, “Nigeria has been shaped by your activities as retired security officers and you have fought to keep the country as one.”

He urged the group to provide advice and assistance to improve the security of life and property in the state, adding that security is a major challenge facing the country, and all hands must be on deck to solve the nagging problem.

Obaseki said, “As a government, we realise that the challenges we face as a country is quite deep and formidable.

Without law, safety and order, government will not succeed. That is why we have tried, as a government, to do our best in terms of safety, security and order to enable us build a great state.”

Earlier, leader of the group, Retired Major General (Retd.) Paul Edomwande, commended Governor Obaseki for the developmental strides recorded since he assumed office as governor of the state.

“We laud your effort in abolishing the Community Development Associations (CDAs) that had caused carnage in our communities.

“Nothing should be allowed to disrupt the mop-up that is still going on,” he added.


Photo 1:
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (2nd left); his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu (middle); Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq. (2nd right); Chairman, Retired Army, Navy and Air Force Officers’ Association of Nigeria (RANAO), Edo State Chapter, Major General Paul. O Edomwande (Retd., left); and, Maj. Gen. C.O Omoregie (Retd., right), during the courtesy visit by the Executive Members of RANAO, to the Governor at Government House in Benin City, Edo State.

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Photo 2:
Chairman, Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe (right); and Assistant Director, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons, during a two-day capacity building workshop for stakeholders in the state themed: Migrant Children in Emergencies, in Benin City, on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

Edo Govt. Partners Commission For Refugees, ICMPD On Wellbeing Of Migrant Children

The Edo State Government on Tuesday hosted the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) to a two-day capacity building workshop for stakeholders in the state, involved in migration management.

Explaining the rationale for the workshop, entitled “Capacity Building Training on Migrant Children in Emergencies,” Project Officer, ICMPD, Ms. Daniela Blecha, noted that the African continent has the largest share of children among its migrant population.

She said migrant children, unlike adult migrants, were more vulnerable and have specific needs, noting that the workshop was conceived to create awareness and build capacity of stakeholders in Edo, on how to attend to their needs.

"Children have specific needs and during crisis they are more vulnerable than adults. Their educational need should be met in such situations so that their future will not be truncated. Provisions need to be made to re-unite these children with their parents as well as provision for who will make decisions for them as they are separated from their parents.”

Blecha explained that the workshop was put together to equip stakeholders with the knowledge and skills for managing crises and emergencies in the country.

Chairman, Edo Task Force Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe, said the state government shared her experience in tackling irregular migration and her agency’s efforts at reintegrating migrants including their children into the society.

She maintained that the Edo State government was working on securing more collaborations in managing human trafficking and irregular migration while commending the ICMPD and NCFRMI for the capacity building for stakeholders in the state.

"We know we need collaboration to eradicate human trafficking and take care of returnees. We need more temporary shelters for returnees in the state so that we can look after them before they are reintegrated with their families.”

She urged participants at the workshop to seize the opportunity to interact and gain more knowledge on better ways of managing migrants.

Federal Commissioner, NCFRMI, Sadiya Umar Farouk, said the workshop was organised under the Migrants in Countries in Crises (MCIC) project, funded by the European Union.

Farouk, who was represented by Mr Charles Anaelo, Assistant Director in the commission, said the training was aimed at improving the protection of migrant children in times of emergencies.

Farouk emphasised that there was need for collaboration amongst relevant stakeholders to ensure that migrant children were guaranteed the same right to education, health care and shelter as other children in the country.

Photo 1:
Chairman, Edo State Task Force Against Human Trafficking, Prof. Yinka Omorogbe (left); and Project Officer, International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), Ms. Daniela Blecha, during a two-day capacity building workshop for stakeholders in the state themed: Migrant Children in Emergencies, in Benin City, on Tuesday, July 3, 2018.

In a renewed effort to safeguard public health, the Edo State Government has shut down a morgue along Upper Sokponba Road in Benin City.

The Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Barr. Omoua Alonge Oni-Okpaku, who supervised the exercise, said the action was taken after an unscheduled inspection of the facility, which was sited in a densely populated area.

Oni-Okpaku noted that following a public query on the operations of the morgue, officials of the ministry inspected the facility, and directed the management to relocate from the area with immediate effect.

She assured members of the public that the ministry would not relent in safeguarding public health.

Source: http://thebellng.com/edo-govt-shuts-morgue-over-public-health-concern/

Obaseki, Ihonvbere, Akerele Forecast Increased Dividends Of Democracy With Oshiomhole As APC National Chair

With former Edo State Governor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole assuming office as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his successor in the state, Governor Godwin Obaseki has said Oshiomhole’s tenure as the party’s helmsman would ensure that Nigerians reap more dividends of democracy.

Obaseki noted, “Oshiomhole will consolidate our political hold as the party is now poised to change the lives of Nigerians for good.”

“As he begins his tenure as National Chairman of the party, we are going to have a process of healing, reconciliation of aggrieved parties but more importantly, the process of redefining a direction for our party” he added.

On his part, Head of Edo State Strategic Planning Team, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, said Comrade Oshiomhole will bring his image, character and reputation to the turf, which will go a long way to mobilise support for the party.

According to him, “As a party, we now have a leader, who is more exposed, experienced, and who has the courage and ability to chart a new way in APC. He will articulate clearly those new issues that we need to empower our communities and constituencies.”

Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki, Chief Taiwo Akerele, said Oshiomhole will enlist youths as critical stakeholders in governance in his tenure as chairman of the APC. “We, the youth in APC and in Nigeria, are excited over the emergence of Oshiomhole as National Chairman. When he was governor of Edo State, for eight years, he built the capacity of youths, and today, we are confident, resolute as we can do whatever we want to do because Oshiomhole has given us that confidence and training,” he said.

He added, “We are of the view that with his emergence as National Chairman of APC, he is going to extend that kind of dexterity and human capacity building to all youth in APC and Nigeria.”

Akerele noted, “With Oshiomhole as National Chairman of APC, 2019 election is one way for APC. President Muhammadu Buhari is coming back for second term because Oshiomhole will take it as a personal project. With Oshiomhole, APC is going to be reinvigorated, rejuvenated and is going to be the most progressive party in the entire Africa.”

Comrade Oshiomhole has since assumed office as the second National Chairman of the APC, taking over from immediate past Chairman of the Party, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

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Obaseki's Arts/Culture Reforms: 200 Dancers, Singers, Screened For Edo Cultural Troupe Jobs

As part of effort by Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki to reposition the state’s cultural troupe, the State Ministry for Arts, Culture and Diaspora Affairs, has held auditions for 200 artistes, to fill at least 35 vacancies in the troupe.

Speaking during the Special Screening and Auditioning of the applicants in Benin City, Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Diaspora Affairs, Hon. Osaze Osemwegie-Ero, said the auditioning was held to revamp the troupe, and recruit talented youths as career staff to fill vacant positions at the ministry.

Hon. Osemwegie-Ero noted that applicants applied for the vacancy through the EdoJobs portal, adding that between 30 to 35 applicants would be recruited among the 200 applicants.

He disclosed that only applicants who have the basic qualifications and demonstrate readiness to add value to the Ministry would be recruited into the state cultural troupe.

According to him, “the Panel of Judges at the screening are expected to select qualified applicants to include dancers, instrumentalists, singers, costume/make-up artistes and technicians.

One of the applicants at the auditioning, Osagie Eguavoen Osas, a graduate of the Department of Theatre Arts, University of Benin, expressed appreciation to Governor Godwin Obaseki for the opportunity, noting that the audition was long overdue.

He said the opportunity would enable him to showcase his talent and contribute to the development of Arts and Culture in the state.

Photo1:
A candidate performing before judges (left) at the audition for the Edo Cultural Troupe organised by the Edo State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Disapora Affairs, held at the Edo Innovation Hub, in Benin City.

In fulfillment of his promise to defray pension arrears owed pensioners in Edo State, the Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has sustained the monthly N264 million payment to pensioners, to ensure the retirees enjoy their status as senior citizens of the state.

Permanent Secretary, Edo State Pension Bureau, Mr. I.D.S Juwobor, explained that notices are published regularly for the pensioners to make themselves available for verification, after which their accounts are credited.

“The payment plan is seamless and hassles-free, in recognition of the status of our pensioners as men and women who have contributed immensely to the development of our state.

“The pensioners appreciate the efforts of the Obaseki administration to clear the backlog and eliminate the cumbersome and analogue pension arrangement, with the introduction of contributory pension scheme, which the governor initiated,” the Permanent Secretary said.

He added that “the recent release of the sum of 1.5 billion naira for the payment of their pension arrears by the governor to clear eight months arrears of 4,340 local government pensioners in the state, is worthy of commendation and much of the pension burden on government have been defrayed.”

State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Jimoh Ijegbai, who assured of the governor’s commitment in clearing all arrears owed pensioners in the state, said “You will recall that on the 1st of May 2018 during the May Day celebration, the governor made a promise to release 1.5 billion naira to clear part of the local government pensioner’s arrears in the state.”

Ijegbai explained that after the announcement by the governor, a meeting of the pensioners was called and immediately the screening of the pensioners commenced.

The commissioner said the gesture by the governor is unprecedented in the history of Edo State to release such an amount to pay pension arrears. He noted that since Obaseki assumed office as governor of Edo state, he has not defaulted in the payment of pensioners in the state.

“As at today, we pay 264 million naira monthly to pay our pensioners in the state and we will continue to pay until we clear the outstanding arrears”.

The President of Local Government Pensioner Association (Edo State) Frank Akinido thanked the governor for keeping to his promise of paying pensioners and express delight to witness the release of the 1.5 billion to this effect.

He assured the governor that pensioners of local government in Edo State are peace abiding citizens. He thanked the governor of the state for remembering the pensioners in the scheme of things especially at this crucial hour of financial hardship.

Source: http://thebellng.com/edo-govt-defrays-lg-pension-arrears-sustains-n264m-monthly-payment/

N-Power: Edo Govt Announces Pre-Selection, Schedules Physical Verification For Applicants

…Govt warns petrol stations, others on activities of illegal taskforce

The Edo State Government has scheduled physical verification for pre-selected applicants for N-Power Creative, N-Power Tech Hardware and N-Power Tech Software of the Federal Government’s Social Investment Programme, in the state.

In a statement, the State Focal Person, National Social Investment Programme, Osayuwamen Aladeselu, said “The verification exercise for the pre-selected applicants would commence on Monday, June 25, and end on Friday, June 29.

“The verification exercise would take place across the state at the National Orientation Agency (NOA) offices in all Local Government Secretariats.

“Pre-selected applicants are expected to go to the venue of the verification with originals and photocopies of the following documents: certificate of birth/affidavit, proof of place of residence, academic certificates (minimum of Senior Secondary Certificate Examination), valid Identity Card and passports.”

She stressed that the pre-selection of the applicants does not translate to final selection.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Minerals, Oil and Gas, Hon. Joseph Ugheoke, has warned members of the public over the activities of persons who disguise as representatives of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) taskforce in the state.

Ugheoke said the State Government was aware of the illegal activities of the group of persons, adding, “these persons move about from one fuel station to another harassing, intimidating and exploiting marketers and petroleum tankers along the high way under the guise that they are representatives of the NNPC and IPMAN task force.”

He urged members of the public to report the activities of the groups to the nearest police station and to the State Ministry of Minerals, Oil and Gas, in Benin City, for immediate action.

Ugheoke said all relevant security agencies are on alert and would not hesitate in arresting persons or group of persons carrying out the illegal activities.

Edo PDP That Ran Schools Aground Lacks Moral Rectitude To Pontificate On Education Reform


For the umpteenth time, the Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) that neglected the Edo State basic education sector lacks the moral rectitude to pontificate on education reform.

Edo people have not forgotten the images of the sorry state of public schools in Edo State, until the All Progressives Congress (APC) took the bull by the horns and replaced what was left of public schools with red roof buildings.

Chris Nehikhare, spokesman for the Edo PDP acknowledged that the APC administration reconstructed some schools, but lied that only schools that are used as polling centers were reconstructed.

Even if we want to accept his lies, how many public primary and secondary schools were reconstructed by the PDP-led administration?

Count one, and we will count 100!

Holy Aruosa Primary school and other such schools will join the league of red roof buildings in the coming weeks.



Crusoe Osagie,

Special Adviser on Media and Communication Strategy to the Edo State Governor

Positive Economic Outlook In Edo Increases Investor Traffic, Pushes Up Air Fares By 1.04%

…as Edo trails Lagos in states with highest air fares – National Bureau of Statistics

The prevailing investment-friendly environment in Edo State, resulting from a series of reforms embarked upon by the Godwin Obaseki administration, to open up the state to private sector investment is impacting on air transportation, stretching airlines to their limit.

Figures obtained from a publication by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), entitled ‘Transport Fare Watch May 2018,’ showed that ‘’average fare paid by air passengers for specified routes single journey increased by 1.04 percent year-on-year to N31,659.82 in May, 2018, from N31,833.46, in April 2018, but decreased by 0.40 per cent month-on-month.’’

The statistics bureau listed Edo State as the state with the second highest air fare, at N39,950.00, after Lagos State, N40,500.00; while the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja was listed third at N39,592.59.

The states with the lowest air fares, according to the NBS, are Katsina N24,300.00; Osun N24,950.48; and Nasarawa N25,700.18.

The May 2018 figures released by the National Bureau of Statistics validate reports by operators of hotels and guest houses, tour operators and other practitioners in the tourism and hospitality industry who have attributed the boost in hotel subscription to the wide range of economic activities such as the development of Benin Industrial Park, the Gelegele Seaport project, the 450 Edo-Azura Independent Power Project and the various road construction work across the state.

New and prospective investors are unperturbed by the high air fares, and investor confidence is at all-time high.

Recall that the Chairman, Golden Tulip Essential Hotel, Benin City, Mr. Edobor Ozakpolor, explained recently that “the current frenzy in the sector can be traced to the emerging socio-economic opportunities being created by the governor of the state.

“Hotel accommodation before now was driven by seasonal activities like cultural and political events. But what we have now is a surge and it started since the governor’s inauguration. We thought activities would nose-dive after the inauguration but the tempo has been sustained by visitors and contractors who are seeking jobs and businesses.

On air travels, he noted that “bookings have increased to 99 per cent as all the airlines that operate the Lagos-Benin route come into Benin City fully booked. This was not the trend before this administration.

“We have moved from weekend to daily business. When we ask some of our guests what they are doing in the state, they always tell us that they are here to see the state governor. Some guests are impressed by the ease with which they can see the governor and seal business deals, because of the reforms in the system.”

Mr. Ozakpolor added that “the improvement in security is also boosting the confidence of our people who now come to town often. People feel safer in the city now and we are aware that the security architecture of the state has been interrogated and improved upon. The impact of the improvement is being felt in the sector as there is a direct relationship between the hospitality industry and security.”

Osazuwa Ehiorobo, owner of The Hamptons Travel Inn, on Boundary Road, Benin City, said “more people are coming into the state now with improved security. The number of contractors that we receive at our facility is on the increase.

The governor is attracting more people to the state with his work in the road sector and the development of the industrial park and other projects in the state.”

Mr. Ehiorobo urged hotel owners to take advantage of the emerging business climate by improving their services. “Some of the factors that can keep guests in your hotel include your ability to provide steady power, suitability of your accommodation, the environment, and the security in the city,” he added.

The National Bureau of Statistics Transport Watch Report for May 2018 covers bus journey within the city per drop constant route; bus journey intercity, state route, charge per person; air fare charge for specified routes single journey; journey by motorcycle (Okada) per drop; and water way passenger
transport.

According to the Report, “Average fare paid by commuters for bus journey within the city increased by 0.53 per cnet month-on-month and 32.71 per cent year-on-year to N166.85 in May 2018 from N165.94 in April 2018.

“States with highest bus journey fare within city were Abuja FCT (N325.23), Cross River (N282.14) and Abia (N235.54) while States with lowest bus journey fare within city were Bauchi (N87.92), Anambra (N93.33) and Rivers (N96.36).

“Average fare paid by commuters for bus journey intercity decreased by 0.05% month-on-month and increased by 14.89% year-on-year to N1,716.31 in May 2018 from N1,722.86 in April 2018. States with highest bus journey fare intercity were Abuja FCT (N4,125.51), Adamawa (N3,166.53) and Borno (N2,744.44) while States with lowest bus journey fare within city were Bauchi (N1,064.54), Enugu (N1,096.88) and Yobe (N1,125.00).”

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commended residents, especially the Muslim faithful, on the peaceful celebration of Eid-El-Fitr across the state.

Obaseki, who noted that his administration will continue to foster religious harmony among members of different religious groups, hailed the peaceful celebration of Eid-El-Fitr, which shows Edo people as peace loving.

He said the peaceful conduct of different groups in the state while the celebrations lasted, showed a shared commitment to the progress of the state, noting that the state government will not relent in deepening the revamp of the security architecture to make the state safer for everyone to carry out their legitimate activities without fear of security threats.

Obaseki added, “Edo State has space for everyone, regardless of the religious convictions, to do business and contribute to economic growth and development.”

According to him, “The spirit of celebration of Eid-El-Fitr should guide us in accommodating one another and building strong alliances in entrenching development.

"Muslims constitute a major force for peace and progress wherever they are and have always upheld the import of the Prophet’s teachings. ”

Obaseki reassured Muslims of his commitment to create an environment where everyone would have a fair chance of contributing to his administration.

He expressed appreciation to Muslims for supporting his administration’s policies and programmes, which are aimed at improving the state’s economy and assuring prosperity for all in the state.

The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for support for people with albinism, urging societies that marginalise and stigmatise them to turn a new leaf.

Obaseki, who made the call in commemoration of the International Albinism Awareness Day, marked on June 13, each year, stressed that it was time for a change of attitude towards people with albinism.

“With the deluge of information on the internet, the myth and unscientific views many societies hold of people with albinism should have no place in an information age. But unfortunately, some societies still despise and exclude them. This needs to stop,” the governor advised.

According to Obaseki: “Some of the most hardworking people I have met are people with albinism, despite their peculiar needs, which are often not captured by human resource managers in the private and public sectors.”

He saluted champions of the cause of people with albinism and challenged families, religious institutions, the media, opinion and thought leaders as well as governments at all levels, to intensify the campaign for the social inclusion of people with albinism.

The United Nations General Assembly in 2014, adopted a Resolution proclaiming, with effect from 2015, 13 June as International Albinism Awareness Day.

According to the global body, “The United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution in 2013 calling for the prevention of attacks and discrimination against persons with albinism.

“Moreover, in response to the call from civil society organisations advocating to consider persons with albinism as a specific group with particular needs that require special attention, on 26 March 2015, the Council created the mandate of Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism.

“In January 2016, Ms. Ikponwosa Ero, United Nations Independent Expert on the Enjoyment of Human Rights of Persons with Albinism submitted her first report on albinism to the UN Human Rights Council. Adding to the information contained in the July 2016 report to the General Assembly, the latest report was presented to the Human Rights Council in 2017 and included a focus on witchcraft as a key root cause of attacks against persons with albinism.”