In a remarkable display of leadership, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, has marked his first 60 days in office with significant accomplishments that have impressed both supporters and critics alike. Despite opposition distractions and ongoing election petitions, Okpebholo has maintained a clear focus on addressing the state’s pressing needs, delivering substantial progress across key sectors.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: ROAD REPAIRS AND NEW PROJECTS
Governor Okpebholo has made notable strides in improving the state’s infrastructure, particularly its road network. The governor prioritized the repair of critical road sections, including the Benin-Auchi road near Obadan junction and the Benin-Abuja road in Ekpoma. Additionally, work is nearing completion on the Upper Ekenwan Road, a project abandoned by the previous administration. Other ongoing projects include the Aduwawa-Upper Mission junction and the Temboga-Uteh road, both vital to enhancing urban connectivity.
HEALTHCARE ADVANCEMENTS: MODERN Health CENTERS AND INSURANCE SCHEME
The governor has committed to improving healthcare access, with significant investments such as the construction of a modern health center in Udomi, Irua. Okpebholo has also allocated ₦63.9 billion for healthcare development in the 2025 budget, alongside a ₦1.8 billion health insurance scheme aimed at providing affordable healthcare for citizens.
EDUCATION REFORMS: BOOSTING AMBROSE ALLI UNIVERSITY AND ADDRESSING STUDENT CONCERNS
Education has been a priority under Okpebholo’s leadership, with an increase in the subvention to Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, and a focus on resolving the long-standing issue of the delayed induction for medical students from the 2015 set. Additionally, the governor has restored Edo State University, Uzairue to its original name, Edo State University, Iyamho.
ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND MARKET REFORMS
The governor has introduced bold economic reforms, including the suspension of market unions accused of driving up prices, leading to stabilized market conditions and improved purchasing power for citizens. Okpebholo has also announced an interest-free loan initiative for traders, set to begin in January 2025, aimed at empowering local businesses and entrepreneurs.
SECURITY MEASURES: STRENGTHENING LAW ENFORCEMENT
In a bid to improve security, Governor Okpebholo has procured over 70 Hilux patrol vans for security agencies and fostered collaboration between local communities and law enforcement. The governor’s efforts have been credited with ensuring a peaceful and crime-free Yuletide celebration for residents.
RESTORING CULTURAL HERITAGE AND ADDRESSING LAND INJUSTICES
The governor has also taken significant steps to restore the rights of the Benin Monarch, Oba Ewuare II, by reversing policies that had undermined his authority. Okpebholo has affirmed the ownership of repatriated artifacts by the Oba’s palace and restored the concession of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre as a heritage site. Additionally, the governor has promised to return lands seized illegally to their rightful owners.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND BUDGET PRIORITIES
Governor Okpebholo granted automatic employment to Ms. Flourish Evbuomwan, daughter of the late Kaduna Eboigbodin, in recognition of her father’s contributions to labor and civil activism. The governor’s 2025 budget allocation reflects a strong commitment to infrastructure, with ₦162 billion dedicated to roads, ₦75 billion to agriculture, ₦63.9 billion to healthcare, and ₦48 billion to education.
CONCLUSION: A GOVERNOR OF ACTION AND RESULTS
In just 60 days, Governor Okpebholo has proven that good governance is defined by action, not words. His administration has delivered tangible benefits to the people of Edo State, making significant progress in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, and economic reform. As opposition parties remain focused on election petitions, the governor continues to transform the state, with more initiatives on the horizon for the benefit of its citizens.