Oredo Government Council Mourns the Passing of Mrs Alice Janet Obaseki


The Oredo Government Council is mourning the loss of Mrs Alice Janet Obaseki, mother of the Executive Chairman of the Oredo Government Council, Dr. Tom Osaze Obaseki. Mrs. Janet Obaseki passed away on Sunday 9th of June, 2024.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the Oredo Government Council, Dr. Wellington Osadolor, the council expresses its deep sorrow. "It is with a heavy heart that we mourn the passing of Mrs. Alice Janet Obaseki who was the mother of our esteemed Executive Chairman, Dr. Tom Osaze Obaseki. This sad event took place on Sunday 9th of June, 2024."

Dr. Osadolor further stated, "Kind-hearted and committed to noble ideals, Mrs Alice Janet Obaseki was a virtuous, Christian, and diligent woman. These traits she passed to her children and all those who learned under her tutelage. She was a great woman and community leader who led a fulfilled life."

The Oredo Government Council extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Tom Osaze Obaseki and his family during this difficult time. Mrs. Obaseki's legacies and contributions to the community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT ...

In line with Edo State Signage and Advertisement Law of 2021 with reference to Guideline, Regulations including sizes and locations of Outdoor Signage structures and in particular part 2 section 11(a-m), the General Public is hereby reminded that it is illegal for any person(s) to display Posters, Banners, Signages and for any Outdoor Advertisement Practitioner to erect Billboards or any outdoor image without appropriate approval from the relevant authority.

The General public may further be informed of the various engagements with outdoor advertisement practitioners and others stakeholders since November, 2023 on the steps by the Council and Edo State Advertisement and Signage Agency to clean up the environmentally degrading billboard clusters, standardize location, sizes and nature of billboards within Benin City metropolis, and therefore the need for practitioners to suspend every form of commitment of any bill board within the Council Area to any third party until completion of the revalidation and relocation exercise. Unfortunately, it has been observed that even when letters were also written to all Practitioners including Political Parties to get relevant approval, this advice have not been adhered to.

Consequently, all Individuals, Outdoor Practitioners, Signage Agents, Political Parties and Operators who have not regularize their operations and or obtain appropriate approval from the relevant authority are advised to do so within the next five (5) days or have their Billboard, Posters dismantled, and the cost of dismantling such billboard will be charged against such violator including other sanctions as may deem fit.

Let's keep our community clean and be law abiding.

Harrison Oronsaye CLPA
Head, Information and Public Orientation Department
For: Permanent Secretary

Obaseki bans activities of Okaigheles, declares war on cultism

...passes anti-cultism law as Edo loses over 150 persons to cult-related activities in five months

...sets up special task force to combat cultism

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has banned the activities of Okaigheles (Youth Leader) in Edo South Senatorial District of the State, as part of a renewed effort to tackle cultism in the State.

Obaseki disclosed this while speaking with journalists after a closed-door meeting with security Chiefs in Edo State, at the Government House in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

Noting that at least 150 persons have been lost to cult-related activities and homicide since January 2024 till date, Obaseki said his government has declared a total war against cultism and has set up a special task force of the Security Council headed by the Director of the Department of State Security (DSS) that will from tonight review every cult related incident in the State.

He said, “We have just finished the Security Council Meeting where we reviewed the security situation in Edo State since January 2024 with particular emphasis on the security activities in Edo in May 2024.

“From the security management report which was considered in our security meeting, we still have a nagging issue in Edo State which is cultism. The incidence of cultism is very high.

“What is particularly worrisome about cultism is the related homicide that goes with cult-related activities. From January to date, we have lost over 150 people to cult-related activities and homicide. We can't tolerate and accept this situation anymore.

“The Council today, amongst its decisions, has decided to go full blast against cultists and cultism in the State. We have now passed an anti-cultism law in Edo State and that law will be implemented to its fullest.”

Obaseki added, “We have set up a special task force of the security council headed by the Director of DSS that will from tonight review every cult related occurrence in the State. We will look at all the data, incidents, perpetrators, and those behind these activities, and will make all resources available and leave no stone unturned.

According to him, “Related to cult activities are activities of Okaigeles in Edo South. The Council has prohibited forthwith activities of Okaigeles in Edo State. Anybody who claims he is an Okaigele, operating in any community will be dealt with strictly by the law.

“The outcome of our security council meeting today is that the State has declared full war on cultists and Okaigeles in Edo State.”

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, reassured that the security agencies will implement the decision of the State Security Council without fear or favour.

He said, “We are happy that the State has passed into law the anti-cultism bill as cultists had a field day in the State but this law has a stiff penalty for anybody involved in the act.

“His Excellency has equally directed that no matter how highly placed any individual is, they will be taken to Court and such a person will face the penalty.

“On the issue of the Okaigheles, we have been having problems with them as you can't even separate them from cultism and the Council has agreed that they are banned. Anybody arrested will be prosecuted diligently. Council also agreed to have a taskforce headed by the Director of the DSS.”

The Police Commissioner added, “This is to give members of the public assurances to carry on with their lawful activities. No time frame is given to the taskforce as long as the activities of these people persist. We will collaborate with the judiciary and correctional centers as they will help us with the new law and the time for free bail for cultists is over. We are happy about this law and confident that it would change the attitude of cultists.”

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; his Deputy, Engr. Marvellous Omobayo Godwins, and Commander, 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brig Gen Ebenezer O. Oduyebo, after a closed-door meeting with security Chiefs in Edo State, at the Government House in Benin City, on Monday, June 3, 2024.

Olumide Apkata the woman beater his marriage last for 2 weeks

The Primacy of Truth (Part 2)

By Crusoe Osagie

He is wicked. He does not forgive. He lacks empathy; and a few more phrases that would not be appropriate in print are often deployed as cryptic language to express their frustration with Governor Godwin Obaseki who has refused to fleece the masses to fete the politically privileged.

They prefer a free rein, a culture of impunity where there are absolutely no consequences for bad behavior because that culture serves the interest of a few with political access and relationship with power.

But Rigoberta Menchú, the Guatemalan Indian human rights activist and 1992 Nobel Peace Prize winner who has spent most of her life fighting for Guatemala’s indigenous people warned that “If impunity is not demolished, all efforts to bring an end to corruption are in vain.”

Unfortunately, most of Obaseki’s crimes against the exclusive elite club of the politically powerful centre around his audacity to demand that bad behavior and impunity are fairly retributed with sanctions to prevent a reinforcement of moral vacuum.

A good example is some politically connected big farmers, who got loans from the Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) and somehow expected Governor Obaseki to write off the loans just because they have political access.

About two or three of these big political farmers who are angry with Obaseki for insisting that they pay back their loans, because even smaller farmers who don’t have access to political power were paying, lead the cacophony of voices screaming to the high-heavens that Obaseki is a wicked and ungrateful man. What an irony.

For us ordinary people, empathy is when you identify the less fortunate in society and take steps to make their lives easier. Empathy is to identify the exclusion of youths and minorities from positions of authority and pick a 37-year-old Marvellous Omobayo Godwins from the oldest but very sidelined Akoko-Edo Local Government Area (LGA) to be Deputy Governor.

Empathy is when you move to ensure that a Blessing Agbebaku from Owan West Local Government Area, one of the most marginalized LGAs in Edo State emerges as Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) and leader of an arm of government for the first time in the history of the State.

Empathy is when you identify that there are three senatorial districts in Edo State- Edo North, Edo Central and Edo South, and insist that each should have a fair shot at the governorship seat thereby forcing most of the other political parties to abandon their intention to perpetuate the total dominance of Edo South and Edo North just because they are more in number.

Empathy is when you identify and take concrete steps to address the sufferings and pains of the people caused by the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government as well as the floating of the naira which negatively impacted exchange rate with spillover effect on inflation. Governor Obaseki provided safety nets to cushion the impact of these national policies on the people of Edo State, including provision of a free bus scheme, which has benefitted millions of residents in the State.

Empathy is when you rightly identify that the N18,000 minimum wage is a scandal and against all odds raise it to N70,000 monthly even when the richer Federal Government and other richer States are stalling.

For these special politicians, however, the definition of empathy is more ambiguous and they have resolved to deal with Obaseki and destroy his ideals as well as anything he holds dear for attempting to redefine empathy.

Will the people who share the common man’s definition of empathy rise in defense of Obaseki for daring to contend with the powers that be?

The jury is out and the battleground is the gubernatorial election in September 21, 2024.

Sadly, not many will read this. Our people are inundated by a deluge of tall tales and they can hardly find space to accommodate the primacy of truth.

Watch out for Part 3.

Osagie, a journalist, is the Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media Projects

The Primacy of Truth (Part 1)

By Crusoe Osagie

“In a society where they burn books, they will soon burn human beings.” This is a paraphrase of the somewhat prophetic quote by a German poet called Heinrich Heine long before the Nazi regime began to set up gas chambers in which over six million Jews were massacred.

Heinrich wrote this quote in 1820 and 113 years later, the Nazi regime led by Adolf Hitler took office and shortly after, they diligently supervised the holocaust, exterminating over six million Jews which till date is probably the biggest scar on the human conscience.

But guess what? Before the regime began to exterminate the Jews, they had made practical efforts to suppress truth, knowledge and reason by burning thousands of books including All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque; the Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka; Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad; the Outline of History by H.G. Wells and the Story of My Life by Helen Keller, a memoir written by a deaf and blind woman who was also a socialist and pacifist, all of which were seen as threats to Nazi ideals.

It is however important to note that even though books may not be physically burnt today, a lot of efforts and tactics are being deployed by people with selfish political interests to silence the voice of reason, truth and upend objectivity.

In Edo, a lot of effort has been made by a small segment of political actors to rewrite the history of the last seven and a half years, and their reason for doing this is simple: pecuniary. Unfortunately for this small segment of politicians in our society who used to depend absolutely on state gratification for their opulent living, Governor Godwin Obaseki’s approach to governance occasioned the redistribution of resources from people with political access to the generality of Edo citizens.

Funds that could have been deployed for orgies, opulent overseas trips, flamboyant medical tourism, and other frivolities have now been redirected for the construction of institutions like the Edo College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi; Edo College of Nursing Sciences, Sapele Road; Edo School of Health Technology, Dumez Road; equipping teachers to adequately train over 400,000 children under the EdoBEST Programme; upgrade of the Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, and the reconstruction of the Stella Obasanjo Hospital; the list is endless.

Funds that would have been ferried away in sacks popularly called ‘Ghana Must Go’ after pointless meetings in Government House have now been channeled towards the reconstruction and equipping of the State Secretariat Complex on Sapele Road; construction of the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), in Benin City; construction of the Adams Oshiomhole Labour House, in Ikpboa Hill; establishing the e-governance system that allows the government to run a paperless public service; prompt payment of salaries and pensions to workers and retirees, and payment of N70,000 as minimum wage, which is the highest in the country, among others.

Alas, by these good deeds, Obaseki has murdered sleep. Just like Robin Hood, the legendary heroic outlaw depicted in English folklore who stole from the rich to give to the poor, Obaseki has a target on his back.

A segment of the politically powerful are upset. They have vowed to destroy the reputation and legacy of the man who dared to interrupt the flow of state funds to satisfy their voracious appetite.

Will the people for whose benefits Obaseki contended with the powers that be rise in his defense?

The jury is out and the battleground is the gubernatorial election in September 21, 2024.

Sadly, not many will read this. Our people are overwhelmed by a deluge of lies and they can hardly find space to accommodate the primacy of truth.

Watch out for Part 2

Osagie, a journalist, is the Special Adviser to Governor Godwin Obaseki on Media Projects

According to Monday Okpebholo, no responsible Government in Nigeria will be able to pay workers more than #30,000 minimum wage.

Do you still want to vote for this monumental failure who is an APC Senator to become Governor?

Edo 2024: APC can’t comprehend long-term impact of Obaseki’s projects because they’re used to subversive politics – Edo govt

The Edo State Government has said that the long-term impact of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s projects cannot be appreciated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) because they have always thrived on subversive politics which imperil the people for the gains of a few.

The Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, who said this in a statement, noted that it was regrettable that the APC would find the commissioning of the new Labour House and the construction of Temboga road as distasteful.

According to him, “It is curious to learn that the All Progressives Congress (APC) finds the building of a Labour House and the construction of an access road in the Temboga area in bad taste just because they want to play politics.

“But we are not surprised by their lack of understanding because they have always been used to subversive politics that have never placed the people at the center of development. In their reasoning, projects should only be constructed for the benefit of few people, and not for the generality of the people.

“If they had paid close attention, they would know that the Labour House project was ongoing for well over two years and was not hurriedly constructed as they are wont to do when they want to deceive unsuspecting members of the public. The term ‘Greek Gift’ which they bandied carelessly is their go-to model and we are not sorry that the import of the project is lost on them.”

He noted that the claim that Obaseki’s projects are not intended for long-term impact was laughable because the Governor is perhaps one of the few helmsmen in the State who has worked with the intention to bequest transformative projects that are targeted at future benefits.

He said: “From massive investment in basic education reforms which are intended to build a workforce of the future, to the impactful Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP) to the governor’s industrialization drive through private-sector led investments in power, energy and technology, no one else has demonstrated a better commitment to making Edo a State better prepared for the future.

“The governor is finalizing the 30-year development plan, which will be enacted as law to ensure that the State maintains a defined development trajectory. This is the best form of thinking and working for the future. But we know the APC cannot understand this because even at the national level, they have been unable to manage our fortunes leading to the halving of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the last 10 years. For them, there is no plan for the future, it is all about eating the ‘seed yam’”

The commissioner cautioned the APC to focus on constructive criticism and not waste their time in inanities, urging them to sell their candidate in the 2024 governorship election like a proper party if he truly has any merit rather than resorting to baseless press releases.

Monday will be rejected by Edo people he has nothing to offer

Edo impresses World Bank with impact of EdoBEST reforms, as situation room tracks performance

The World Bank has commended the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for his government’s reforms in the basic education sector, expressing satisfaction with the progress and impact of the reforms in the last six years.

A World Bank delegation led by the Bank’s Education Economist, Martín De Simone, said the State has continued to meet set goals, significantly progressing with its basic education sector reforms and upskilling the State’s teeming youth population through the Edo Basic Education Sector and Skills Transformation (EdoBESST) Program.

The delegation which is on a 4-day working visit to the state is collaborating with stakeholders from the Edo State Ministry of Education, the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), and other government agencies implementing far-reaching reforms geared at repositioning Edo State in basic education and skills development.



According to Martín De Simone, “we are evaluating and reviewing the progress achieved so far in the implementation of the state-wide basic education and skills transformation reform which was launched in 2018 by the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.”



He said, “We have held extensive meetings with key stakeholders over the past four days and have identified key areas where progress has been made and areas that need to be further strengthened as we work toward achieving the goals of EdoBESST.

“We are particularly pleased that the data before us shows that there is improvement in the basic education system since the implementation of reform in various areas, including the performance of the pupils in state-owned primary schools.”

After the team visited The Situation Room situated at Block B, State Secretariat at Sapele Road in Benin City, Martín commended the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration for creating the facility where activities of the program are monitored.

De Simeone said, “The Situation Room created to monitor teachers, students, and schools’ performance is unique because it helps in real time data gathering, compared to what the bank has seen in other states.”

“The Situation Room from where activities of teachers, schools and pupils are being monitored will help in improving the overall performance of each school as teachers are cautious because they know their activities are monitored and it will equally improve the performance of the pupils.”

Also, a Senior Education Specialist with the World Bank, Dr. Olatunde Adekola while commending the governor stated that, "We encourage the governor to urge UBEC to come learn from Edo SUBEB as this is the way to go as it will help Nigeria’s education system as the education system has improved in Edo State.”

The Executive Chairman of Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Ozavize Salami reeled the impact of the program which was launched six years ago.

She said, “This is the sixth World Bank mission in the course of the EdoBESST program. The program has been on for six years and the partnership with the World Bank is for four years now and we have seen the results of what we set out to achieve.

“We established The Situation Room in Edo SUBEB to gather real time data for the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) program. Now we can track the performance of our teachers, head teachers and pupils directly from our office in Benin City. It provides us with a reliable means of gathering information to guide us in making better policies.

“It also helps us to set realistic goals and monitor our progress in real time. We have redefined school level quality control in Nigeria through The Situation Room. Right now, I can monitor the performance of our teachers, students and schools right from this office.

According to the Edo SUBEB Chairman, “currently, EdoBEST is catering to the learning needs of over 380,000 pupils across the 18 local government areas of Edo State. The program has improved teaching and learning quality by upskilling teachers and equipping them with well-researched materials for teaching. It has provided technology for efficient school and classroom level management.”

PHOTO CAPTION

DSC_01

L-R: Education Economist, World Bank, Martín De Simone; Executive Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Ozavize Salami; Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa Esq., and Senior Education Specialist, World Bank, Dr. Olatunde Adekola, after a meeting with officials of the World Bank in Benin City, Thursday, April 18, 2024.

DSC_02

L-R: Executive Chairman, Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (Edo SUBEB), Ozavize Salami; Education Economist, World Bank, Martín De Simone; Senior Special Assistant to Edo State Governor on Strategy, Policy, Project and Performance Management, Ojo Akin Longe, with an official of the World Bank, during a meeting with officials of the World Bank in Benin City, Thursday, April 18, 2024.

Edo deploying novel model to boost response to medical emergency - Commissioner

… we’ve responded to 27 emergency calls in one month

The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, said the State Government is leveraging strategic collaboration with the private sector to boost response to medical emergencies in the State.

The commissioner, in a chat with journalists, said residents in the Oredo, Egor, and Ikpoba-Okha LGAs can access medical and ambulance services by calling the Edo Emergency Toll-Free Number, 112 or 739, noting that, “This is a pilot phase for residents within Benin City.

“After this pilot phase which will last for about a year, the State Government will extend the medical emergency services to other parts of the State. After we have looked into the things we didn’t do well in the pilot phase, we can now extend it.”

“We cannot start something new and you want to cover a large area. This is why we are starting small. Then as we make progress, we will review what we have been able to do in one year. We can now close the gap and extend it to all over the State. So part of the programme is to extend it to all over the state but gradually.”

Dr. Alli said the State is executing the Medical Emergency Response Programme with the partnership of “Emergency Response Africa which is well noted for executing such a project and actually they are also bringing some level of expertise and funding to ensure this project is established and effectively executed in the State.

“It is a partnership that the State Government is benefitting both in terms of technical expertise and in terms of funding. It is a win-win for the citizens of the State.”

According to the commissioner, the “initiative is encouraging because it covers all the areas. There are ambulance services and first responders- those who are the first persons to attend to the accident victims. We are training people on that. How do you even respond in terms of emergency? These are things everyone should know actually.”

According to the Project Manager, Edo Medical Service (EMS), Kate Ibeanusi, “In one month, from 18th March to 16th April 2024 we have responded to 27 emergency calls. Out of this, the number of calls dispatched to the ambulance is 21 and 6 hospital transfers. Within this period, we had one hoax call. We encouraged residents within Benin City to take advantage of this initiative by reporting medical emergencies to save lives.”

Obaseki, Veneto region, Italy, collaborate on culture, tech, agric, TVET devt

... new pact seeks to make Edo youths globally competitive

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the State Government is committed to exploring collaborations in culture, agriculture, technology, technical and vocational education with the Veneto region in Italy to empower youths in the State with the right skills to compete favourably globally.

Addressing officials of the Veneto region during the signing of an agreement with the government of the region, Obaseki said the pact consummates shared commitment to advancing collaborations for the benefit of our countries, which have over the years maintained a mutually beneficial relationship.

According to him, “I have served as Governor of Edo State for over seven and a half years, and during this period, we have expanded the scope of our collaboration with the Italian government, spanning joint efforts in migration management, cultural collaboration, international exchanges, among others.

“Today, we are here to strengthen the bond of collaboration between the people of Edo State and the Veneto region. These would span across Culture, Agriculture, Technology, and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

“These are key areas of focus of my government and we have made tremendous strides in strengthening institutions that advance these causes in Edo State over the last seven years.”

He added: “In particular, our government embarked on wide-ranging reforms in the civil and public service that have dramatically improved service delivery ensuring that government institutions are not only responsive but that services are seamless with the use of digital technology. Edo today is the first State in Nigeria to go fully digital – all government business is conducted electronically.

“Aside these, we have advanced reforms in the Arts with the ongoing development of the Benin Cultural District and the construction of the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA) in Benin City, which provides a space for interrogation of our State’s rich cultural heritage and allows our youth to reignite the spirit of creativity.

“In agriculture, we have the biggest oil palm development project in Africa with about 70,000 hectares of land under cultivation. Investment in food processing has also been on the rise in the State as we have two active ethanol plants on the verge of completion. All these are made possible by the efforts to boost investment inflow into the State, which has resulted in the State emerging as one of the fastest growing economies in Nigeria.”

On vocational education, Obaseki said the State has invested in expanding our vocational education institutions in the State to train best-grade technicians with support from international organisations, adding that a model institute is operational in Benin City and more are spread across the State, providing quality practical training to our youths.

“Through this effort, we are ensuring that our people are well skilled so that when they migrate, they are more useful in whatever society they find themselves in,” he noted.

Obaseki added that one of the most ambitious projects is the investment in technology infrastructure, which is intended to serve as the superstructure for our digital economy, adding “So far, we have completed the installation of fibre optic internet cables across the 18 local government areas of the State. These ensure that every part of the State is able to operate on high-speed internet.

The governor noted, “It is quite instructive that we have a considerable number of our people over here in Italy who have continued to promote the ethos of hard work, diligence and excellence.

“The rich history and art scene of Veneto mirrors the vast promise that Edo possesses. We are therefore building bridges to share success stories and collaborate on building a mutually beneficial relationship for the benefit of our people.

“We have come on a very interesting journey these past years and are happy to have had the people and government of Italy as worthy partners.”

He added, “We appreciate all that you have done and assure that with the strengthened relationship forged today, we will achieve more in the quest of building a more impactful relationship for shared prosperity.”

Edo govt condemns clash between LP candidate, Akpata and UNIBEN SUG

The Edo State Government condemns in the strongest terms the violence associated with the Labour Party candidate, Mr. Olumide Akpata's visit to the University of Benin on Friday, April 12, 2024.

Claims and counterclaims have been made by Mr. Akpata and the Student Union Government (SUG) of the University in statements issued by both parties on April 13, and active investigation is ongoing on the issue.

The Edo State Government, however, warns in the strongest terms that it will not tolerate violence or this sort of irresponsible behaviour which was associated with the visit of Mr. Akpata to the institution.

Government has the primary responsibility to ensure the security of lives and property in the State and will spare no effort to ensure that anyone who breaches the peace, no matter how highly placed, will face the full weight of the law.

We hereby call on all Edo people to go about their lawful businesses without let as relevant agencies progress with their investigation into the said matter.

Hon. Chris Nehikhare
Commissioner, Communication and Orientation, Edo State

Fuel Subsidy Removal: Obaseki extends free bus service by another three months

…free ride extended to July as nearly 5 million Edo residents benefit

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the extension of the free bus scheme implemented by the state government for another three months.

The free transport scheme, now extended to July 2024, was introduced in September 2023 for an initial two-month period to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal by the Federal Government on the people of the State.

Following the success of the first phase which benefited over 1.5m Edo people, the governor thereafter extended the palliative programme till February 2024 and later April 2024.

The free transport scheme covers all intra and intercity routes operated by the State-owned Edo City Transport Services (ECTS), including Auchi – Igarra – Ibillo–Ososo; Uzebba–Ikhin – Otuo, and Abudu-Ubiaja, Abudu-Urhonigbe and Ewohimi to Ewatto.

The intra-city routes are Ramat–Kingsquare; New Benin–Kingsquare; Kingsquare – Ekenwan Road; Kingsquare–Airport Road; Kingsquare–Sapele Road and Kingsquare – Adesuwa, Kingsquare–Ogida; New Benin – Upper Mission; Kingsquare–Ugbowo; Kingsquare–Agbor Road; Kingsquare–Upper Sokponba; New Benin – Ugbowo and New Benin–Aduwawa.

In a statement, the Managing Director of Edo State Transport Authority (ESTA), Mrs. Edugie Agbonlahor, said the extension is in furtherance of the government’s commitment to the welfare of Edo people, noting that the free bus scheme will now run till July 2024.

According to her, “His Excellency, the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has graciously approved the extension of the free bus service till July 10, 2024.

“The decision is on the back of the success and feedback that have trailed the eight-month programme and in furtherance of the government’s commitment to the welfare of Edo people, especially in the face of recent economic challenges caused by the federal government's fuel subsidy removal.”

Noting the impact of the programme over the past eight months, Agbonlahor said nearly five million Edo residents have benefitted from the programme since its launch in September 2023.

She stated, “The extension followed the success and positive feedback which we have continued to garner since the launch of the programme. We are glad with the positive impact of the scheme as over 4,799,960 Edo residents have benefited, including 142,289 intercity passengers and 4,657,671 intercity passengers.”

Edo State Ministry of Roads and Bridges Eid al-Fitr Message

Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is a joyous occasion for Muslims worldwide. It's a time to celebrate the completion of the holy month of fasting and a chance to reconnect with loved ones.
Eid al-Fitr is also a time for expressing gratitude to Allah for the strength and guidance received during Ramadan. Muslims seek forgiveness for any shortcomings during the fasting period, promoting self-reflection and spiritual renewal. This celebration goes beyond just merriment. It's a time to strengthen bonds with loved ones, share blessings with the less fortunate, and spread love and peace. Eid al-Fitr embodies the core Islamic values of compassion, forgiveness, and community.
Today, let’s cherish the blessings of family, friends, and community. May our hearts be filled with gratitude and our homes with happiness.

Ethan Osazemen Uzamere
Honourable Commissioner
Ministry of Roads and Bridges

Eid-el-Fitr: Obaseki felicitates with Muslim faithful, harps on sacrifice, love

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has felicitated with Muslims in the State on the celebration of Eid-El Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In his Eid-El Fitr message, Obaseki urged Muslim faithful not to relent but intensify prayers for the nation to overcome its current challenges.

Obaseki said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend my warmest congratulations to you as we commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

“As you celebrate this joyous occasion, I urge you to sustain the lessons of sacrifice and love learnt during the Ramadan fast. We are in very difficult times, and it would take a great deal of selflessness and love to be our brothers' keeper. So, I urge you to go the extra mile in extending a hand of support to friends, relatives and acquaintances as we press on.”

The governor added, “I implore you to show compassion to one another, as taught by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W), especially at these trying times. Working and supporting each other, we can surmount our nation's challenges. This is why it is pertinent to continue to pray and work towards building a progressive nation anchored on progressive ideals.”

Eid-el-Fitr: Obaseki felicitates with Muslim faithful, harps on sacrifice, love

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has felicitated with Muslims in the State on the celebration of Eid-El Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

In his Eid-El Fitr message, Obaseki urged Muslim faithful not to relent but intensify prayers for the nation to overcome its current challenges.

Obaseki said, “On behalf of the Government and people of Edo State, I extend my warmest congratulations to you as we commemorate the Eid-el-Fitr after the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.

“As you celebrate this joyous occasion, I urge you to sustain the lessons of sacrifice and love learnt during the Ramadan fast. We are in very difficult times, and it would take a great deal of selflessness and love to be our brothers' keeper. So, I urge you to go the extra mile in extending a hand of support to friends, relatives and acquaintances as we press on.”

The governor added, “I implore you to show compassion to one another, as taught by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (S.A.W), especially at these trying times. Working and supporting each other, we can surmount our nation's challenges. This is why it is pertinent to continue to pray and work towards building a progressive nation anchored on progressive ideals.”

Edo boosts telemedicine, primary healthcare delivery with fibre optic internet infrastructure

The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okunbowa, has said that the spread of fibre optic internet infrastructure across the 18 local government areas of the State will improve primary healthcare and telemedicine.

In his remarks during telemedicine workshop held in Benin City, with the theme, “Delivering Value in Primary Health Care: The Role of Telemedicine, the Head of Service, said with fiber optic connection across the 18 Local Government areas in Edo State, primary healthcare centres can leverage access to the internet to improve delivery of quality healthcare.

He said, “Through telemedicine we can actually harness the power of technology to overcome the barriers that have plagued our primary healthcare system. With the advent of telecommunication networks, video conferences, mobile applications, medical advice, consultations diagnosis can be delivered remotely reaching those in need regardless of the geographical limitations.

“The novel initiative is made possible by his Excellency with the connection of fiber optics across the 18 Local Government areas in Edo State. This not only saves time and resources but also ensures quality healthcare services are readily available even in the most remote areas.”

On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, said the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration has continued to reposition primary healthcare centers through strategic interventions.

He noted: “In the last two years, we have renovated over 50 facilities and we have also deployed personnel there with the goal that at least there should be one primary healthcare centre functional per each ward. We have a template; we have the design.

“We do not want us to begin to view primary healthcare centres as clinics for poor people and for rural dwellers. It is for everyone who needs the services.”
The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okunbowa, has said that the spread of fibre optic internet infrastructure across the 18 local government areas of the State will improve primary healthcare and telemedicine.

In his remarks during telemedicine workshop held in Benin City, with the theme, “Delivering Value in Primary Health Care: The Role of Telemedicine, the Head of Service, said with fiber optic connection across the 18 Local Government areas in Edo State, primary healthcare centres can leverage access to the internet to improve delivery of quality healthcare.

He said, “Through telemedicine we can actually harness the power of technology to overcome the barriers that have plagued our primary healthcare system. With the advent of telecommunication networks, video conferences, mobile applications, medical advice, consultations diagnosis can be delivered remotely reaching those in need regardless of the geographical limitations.

“The novel initiative is made possible by his Excellency with the connection of fiber optics across the 18 Local Government areas in Edo State. This not only saves time and resources but also ensures quality healthcare services are readily available even in the most remote areas.”

On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Samuel Alli, said the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration has continued to reposition primary healthcare centers through strategic interventions.

He noted: “In the last two years, we have renovated over 50 facilities and we have also deployed personnel there with the goal that at least there should be one primary healthcare centre functional per each ward. We have a template; we have the design.

“We do not want us to begin to view primary healthcare centres as clinics for poor people and for rural dwellers. It is for everyone who needs the services.”

Updates on Road Construction from the Ministry of Roads And Bridges headed by Hon. Osazemen Ethan Uzamere

Governor Godwin Obaseki finishing strong 💯

Asue Ighodalo is the best man for the job

Edo govt pays March salaries, pensions

The Edo State Government has paid civil and public servants’ salaries for the month of March, assuring that it will continue to meet its statutory obligations to workers before the 26th day of every month.

In a statement, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, noted that alongside workers who have received their salaries, pensioners have also been paid their pensions for the month of March.

According to him, “The Edo State Government led by Governor Godwin Obaseki has paid workers’ salaries for the Month of March. Pensioners have also gotten their due emoluments. They received their alerts on Sunday. This is very much in line with the government’s policy of ensuring that workers are paid before the 26th day of every month.

“We want to use this opportunity to appreciate workers for their commitment and steadfastness despite the harsh economic conditions we face. The workers have continued to discharge their duties in good faith and pushed even harder to ensure that government’s programmes, policies and reforms are implemented.”

He added that the government will continue to sustain reforms to alleviate the suffering caused by rising inflation, noting that the free bus ride scheme, improved work conditions, among others will be sustained.

The Edo State Government’s renewable energy programme being implemented in partnership with Oando Energy will result in the construction of wind turbines across three locations in the three senatorial districts of the State.

The locations, according to studies by Oando Energies, will be at Uhunmwonde, Uromi and Akoko Edo, where energy currents are high.

The Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Hon. Enaholo Ojiefoh, who disclosed this in a chat with journalists, noted that the state government is looking at serving areas with increased economic activity with wind energy operated by partners.

According to him, “Oando has carried out their audit and came up with the report that there is a heavy wind current in a part of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. They have opened discussions with the local government chairman.

“The other location is between Uromi and Ubiaja, close to the railway bridge, where there is also a strong wind current. Another one will be situated between Etsako and Akoko Edo, close to the Igbira camp.”

He noted that the company has identified the areas where they will install the turbines to harvest wind energy, generate power and sell to willing buyers, adding “They are set to fit the meteorological mast to take record of the wind in the area. These are part of the renewable programme we have to drive industrialization.”

The Commissioner added that the renewable energy programme is targeted at industrial zones in the State, which is why the company is conducting an energy audit in Ikpeshi, Akoko Edo Local Government, where a lot of mining activities are ongoing.

“Oando Energy is set to construct a plant in the area to serve the investors in the economy. So, the renewable energy programme is targeted at solving energy issues in these clusters,” he added.

Obaseki approves payment of gratuity to LGA pensioners retired in 2009

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the payment of gratuity to pensioners who retired from the local governments in the State in 2009.

In a statement, the Acting Secretary, Local Government Staff Pension Board, Mrs. Arewa Mary Omo, said the affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise for the payment of their gratuity.

She noted, “This is to inform Pensioners on the payroll of the Local Government Staff Pension Board who retired in 2009 that His Excellency, the Executive Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has approved the payment of their gratuity.”

According to her, “The affected pensioners are to physically present themselves for screening exercise scheduled for: Date: Monday 25th Friday, 29th March, 2024; Venue: Local Government Staff Pension Board, Pension House, King Square, Benin City between 8 a.m.—4 p.m. daily.”

Arewa noted, “The Pensioners should also come along with the following documents: Letter of Retirement; Pensioners Identity Card; Pensioners Biometric Slip, and Pay Advice.

Obaseki: We’ve laid foundation for economic growth, devt in Edo, Nigeria

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government has over the past seven and half years focused on transformative reforms across various sectors of the State’s economy, repositioning the Edo State as a leading subnational in terms of GDP growth.

Obaseki, who spoke to journalists in Benin City, the Edo State capital, said the reforms in agriculture, energy, technology, economy, security and manpower development, among others, have laid the foundation for economic growth and development in the State and nation.

Reeling of some of his government’s achievements over the last seven years, Obaseki stated, “We have built institutions, empowered our people with skills, and ensured they are gainfully employed and seven years after, we are ranked as one of the top States in terms of GDP growth in Nigeria.”

He continued: “In the last seven years, we have improved our security architecture, ensuring our people walk freely as the ability to restore security gives confidence to our people who come back home to invest in our State.

“Before now, our young ones traveled at will to seek greener pastures but our administration in 2017 got the report about how desperate our youths are traveling out but we have changed the narrative.”

According to him, “As I wind down as governor, I am leaving a strong State economically; agricultural production has been ramped up significantly. We are leaving a State that is the most digitally connected in Nigeria today as we have laid over 2,000km of fiber optic connection across the State and we have connected the 18 LGAs in our State.

“We are leaving a State that is leading in terms of electricity generation. We have Azura Power contributing to the stability of the national grid and we also have Ossiomo Power. Investors are ready to support our initiatives in the State. We have the Edo State Electricity Regulatory Law that allows us to regulate those who want to generate and distribute electricity in Edo State.”

He added, “We have made considerable progress as we have laid the basis for economic growth and development in Edo State and Nigeria.”

Obaseki to parley FG on concessioning of Benin/Auchi Road to Edo govt, partners

…as Edo, Dangote, BUA commence remedial works on 30km

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the State Government has arranged for a meeting on Tuesday, March 12 with representatives of the Federal Government, Dangote Group and BUA Plc to discuss and proffer short term solutions on the deplorable condition of the Benin/Auchi Road.

The governor disclosed this at the weekend during a chat with journalists at the Government House in Benin City, after a closed door meeting with the Minister for Works and Housing, Engr. David Umahi.

Governor Obaseki also appealed to the Federal Government to concession the road to Edo State Government as a long-term solution, noting, “As a State, we would work with the Minister and the Federal Government. The issue of roads can’t be left to one stakeholder alone; we all must come to work together.

“We are very concerned about the high-traffic roads like the Benin-Auchi road which is one of the main transport arteries in Edo State. Youths have protested severally about the poor condition of the road. We have appealed to them and they accepted and expect us to fulfill the promise on remedial action to reduce the carnage, accident, destructions, and delays commuters witness on that road.

He noted, “We have agreed with the Minister that we would send one of our contractors immediately to go in there this next week to commence palliative work in some very bad sections of the road. We also agreed that the bad sections particularly around Agbede, between Ekpoma and Irrua-axis and some other portions towards Uhunmwode LGA.

“These bad sections have been calculated and it came to about 30km and we have to bring in other stakeholders, particularly heavy users of the road. We have singled out Dangote and BUA cement companies as they are one of the largest users of the Benin/Auchi road and can’t stay aloof.

“We are summoning a meeting with representatives of these two companies, Edo State Government, and the Federal Minister for Works and Housing on Tuesday to agree on concrete steps and measures to take and make sure that the remedial works are done on the bad sections of the road to ensure rehabilitation work are done before raining season commences.

“We can’t afford to have that road in that condition this year. Things are bad enough in the country. This is the main artery moving petroleum products, foods from the North to the South. We have no choice but to make sure that the road is open to traffic. These are short term measures.”

“I want to thank the Honourable Minister for Works and Housing for the concern he has shown to us on the State of Federal roads. Same time last year when I cried for help about the deplorable State of our roads ahead of the rainy season, we didn't get this kind of response. That is why we have to deal with the terrible road situation during and after the rains.

Obaseki said, “I believe that the Minister has shown enough sensitivity to iur plight. He has come to us ahead of the heavy rains to see what we can do and what palliative measures can be put in place in some of these federal roads. I believe that once we take some of these steps, the situation can’t be as bad as we experienced last year.

“The Minster has raised several issues. First is because of our position as a State with a unique location. We have a very large network of federal roads across the State. We are perhaps one of the few states with the largest extent of federal roads. But our citizens will always argue that they are not federal citizens but citizens of Edo and Nigeria using these roads. It’s important we come together, work together and build these roads.

“In working together, we have to remove the encumbrances which are the way we contract to build the roads, the people we used to build these roads, the materials used as well.”

On the way forward, the governor said, “We need to use more sustainable local materials instead of using expensive asphalt. We should now think of using sustainable local materials. We produce cement and steel. We have no reason why we should not begin to move towards using concrete in building our roads for it to last long.

“As part of the long term measures, the road should be concessioned. We will be discussing it with the Minister on Tuesday. Our focus is that the road must and should be concessioned as we can’t continue to accept what is going on anymore.

“You have contracts for almost 20 years but we have not been able to make progress, please hand over that road to us, let us concession it to people that have the money as we have done with the Benin-Asaba Road. We believe working with the private sector we can be able to raise the money to dualise the road. Before the end of this year we would push for the concession of the road and would try to achieve this before leaving office.

The Minister for works, Engr David Umahi commended the Governor Obaseki for his commitment to make life better for Edo people, adding that the President directed him to take a look at the performance of contractors, adding that anyone that has performed below expectation will be sacked.

“The federal government has issued warning letters to some contractors who are not living up to expectations and failures to meet up will lead to termination of contract. I commend governor Obaseki for his concern about the state of roads in Edo State. I worked with the governor throughout the night and I have seen his commitment to his people. He spoke with BUA, Dangote and invited them for a meeting on Tuesday.

“I commend you very highly for your work especially on concrete roads. It means you mean well for Edo people. You are a private driven person and your commitment to the State is commercial and we see a lot of returns on investments and until we run a government like the private sector, we will not make much success.”

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Minister for Works and Housing, Engr. David Umahi; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Edo State Commissioner for Road and Bridges, Ethan Uzamere, and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Chris Nehikhare, after a closed door meeting at the Government House, Benin City, at the weekend.

Mothers’ Day: Obaseki celebrates mothers, hails sacrifice in navigating complexities of motherhood

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has celebrated mothers for their immense role in societal development, hailing their sacrifice, perseverance, bravery and resourcefulness in expertly navigating the daunting challenges of motherhood, especially amid the current economic realities.

The governor in commemoration of 2024 Mothers’ Day, said mothers face complex challenges both at home and in society, from managing household responsibilities to navigating societal expectations and balancing work commitments, among others, noting that they have expertly and selflessly navigated these challenges with grace and resilience.

He said mothers deserve praise for making sacrifices that have led to the advancement of society and are still at the forefront of reforms and changes that guarantee a better future.

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According to him, "Mothers are God’s most distinctive gift to mankind, and this year’s Mother’s Day celebration presents yet another fine opportunity to celebrate and appreciate them for their sacrifices, love, care and unflinching commitment to family and society.

“Even in the face of dire economic straits, they have shown brightly, conquering several odds to be the superhumans they are. It is in this light that the state government is executing reforms and undertaking projects to make the roles of mothers easier. We are executing empowerment programmes, making the workplace friendlier, and implementing more policies to lessen the load on mothers.”

Reassuring of efforts to protect mothers and guarantee them better opportunities, the governor stated, "We have brought mothers to the decision table as we have a good number of women occupying top-tier positions in government, which affords us the opportunity to tap from their innate potential to build a better and inclusive society.

“From our government’s reforms in healthcare to education, housing, agricultural programmes, gender mainstreaming and many more, mothers who have been placed at strategic points in the value chain have all played huge roles in ensuring a better life for Edo people and we are proud of their accomplishments and exploits.”

Int’l Women’s Day: Obaseki hails Nigerian women’s resilience, courage in tough times

…urges increased investment, global action to bridge gender gap, accelerate progress in advancing equality

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has hailed Nigerian women for their resilience and courage in the wake of the dire conditions that they have had to operate occasioned by the rising inflation and other economic challenges.

The governor, in a statement to mark International Women’s Day (IWD), noted that the inflationary trend has heavily impacted families, which are struggling to survive amid the high cost of living and other economic headwinds.

The 2024 International Women’s Day (IWD) marked by the United Nations (UN) and other development organisations across the globe has the theme, 'Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.'

Obaseki who celebrated women for their impact and immense contributions to the growth and development of the society, called for increased global action, including strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and improving investment towards efforts at bridging the gender gap and accelerating the progress on gender equality.

According to him, “As we celebrate International Women’s Day, I am moved to praise the resilience and courage of Nigerian women who are forced to make tough decisions every day over the rising cost of living. This has impacted them when they go to work and even on the home front. It takes fortitude to keep things running smoothly.

“As commissioners, permanent secretaries or heads of agencies, market women or business owners in Edo State, women have proven to be expert managers of resources. They have been resilient and courageous in the discharge of their duties and we celebrate these great traits on this day.”

“However, beyond this, I must acknowledge women for their contributions to societal advancement, from changing the narrative in the world of business to their complementary role in the home.

“It is worth noting that the family unit remains one of the strongest forces of socialization. While we witness severe attacks on this essential unit that holds our core values and virtues, women have stood as vanguards of hope and positive change.”

The governor also noted that efforts have been taken to support women-led enterprises in the State, stating that women play key roles in business and politics and must be supported because of their unrelenting commitment to making society better.

“For us, we believe women must be supported. This is why we have made necessary investments to support their businesses. We are redesigning and rebuilding markets and giving more women roles in government because we believe in their innate ability to do good and care for others,” he added.

PUBLIC NOTICE - RELOCATION

This is to notify the general public that the Ministry of Physical Planning, Housing, Urban and Regional Development (MPPHURD) and its Agencies have relocated from our former Office at 2nd Floor, Block C Secretariat Complex, Sapele Rd. Benin City to our new office complex.

Address: Block A, Plot 102 Benin -Sapele Road (Former Water Board Building) just before Conoil Filling Station, Sapele Road, Benin City.

Forr more enquiries, please call 08104663697

Guinness World Record: Obaseki assures support for youths, hails Osariemen for marathon reading attempt

… cheers Osariemen as she reaches 207 hours, advocates more support

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said his government will continue to prioritize young people in the State, ensuring they are adequately empowered and equipped with the right skills and tools to realize their full potential.

Obaseki said this when he led other government functionaries to the Edo State Library Complex, at the State Secretariat, Benin City, to cheer Osariemen Angel Asein, an indigene of the State who is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual.

As at the time of the governor’s visit, Osariemen Asein, who kicked off the attempt on February 23, 2024, has read for 207 hours, surpassing the current 145-hour Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud.

Obaseki was accompanied by his wife, Betsy; Special Adviser on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie; Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare; Commissioner for Digital Economy, Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor; Commissioner for Education, Joan Osa-Oviawe and the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism, Uyi Jennifer Oduwa-Malaka, among others.

Speaking to journalists, the governor said the vision of Osariemen aligns well with what his administration has done in the State in the last seven years, developing the reading culture of our young ones and re-enacting the education system, particularly basic education.

He said, “I am very excited and it's gratifying for me to see one of our own, Osariemen Angel Asein attempting to break the Guinness World Record in reading. It's just ties in with what we have preached and the work we have done in the State in the last seven years, trying to re-enact education, particularly basic education, and develop the reading culture of our young ones and children in this State.

“It’s quite pleasing to see one of them trying to take it to another level, letting the world see how well Edo young people are doing; how aspirational and globally competitive they have become. I believe that there can't be a greater reward for our administration than what this young lady is doing. I am asking all of you to support her in this quest as we are here to support her as she has broken the world record in reading; what a record to break! it's quite gratifying and fulfilling.”

Obaseki who also received Prof. Demas Nwoko, one of Africa’s greatest architects at the library to support the aspiration of Osariemen Asein, commended him for his architectural work across the globe.

He noted that Edo State has also benefited from Prof Nwoko’s architectural work as Oba Akenzua Cultural Center is one of his works.

Obaseki noted, “Here we have Prof. Demas Nwoko, most people may not realize he is one of Africa’s greatest architects; he is joining us here today. One of his seminar works is the Oba Akenzua Cultural Center which is one of the 1001 buildings you must see in this world before you die.

“He is here in Edo State with us as Osariemen read from one of his books. He is here to see one of his works, the Oba Akenzua Cultural Center which we are going to finally try to complete and make it part of the cultural district which we are building for people to come and see.”

In addition, the Edo State Ministry of Education through its EdoBest Programme launched the Book and Art Festival with the maiden theme, “Every Child a Reading Champion.”

PHOTO CAPTION

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Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki (right), with an indigene of Edo State who is attempting to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual, Osariemen Angel Asein, at the State Library, in Benin City, Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

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L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Education, Joan Osa-Oviawe; Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Governor Godwin Obaseki, and Prof. Demas Nwoko, at the Edo State Library, venue for Osariemen Angel Asein’s attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon reading aloud by an individual, in Benin City, Wednesday, March 6, 2024.

POLITICAL MISCALCULATIONS: The fall of a Man

By Hon. (Comr) Eromosele Ehisuan
President, Esan Agenda World Wide & Edo Coalition Movement

We have told them that anyone that goes against Esan Agenda is against equity, fairness and justice. Therefore, the fall of the person will come faster.

We have never imposed the Esan Agenda on anyone, rather we have made appeals with all the gods of Esanland, our traditional rulers left their thrones and went round Edo South and Edo North for the purpose of Esan producing the next Governor of Edo State. Many listened and adhered to our appeals. Therefore, they joined the movement. God bless you all.

But Comr. Philip Shaibu's boys on one occasion wrote to discredit our traditional rulers. My team made a response to that and they withdrew. Some of them called me and apologized.

Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, our Deputy Governor was advised by his boss, Governor Godwin Obaseki to relax and let the Esan people have it, but he insulted his boss and started displaying youthful rascality in different occasions that he even discredited His Excellency in an event by coming late after the governor's arrival. It is an insult to the office of the Governor, because the Deputy shouldn't have come after his boss, rather he should have sitted, waiting for the arrival of his boss.

He disrespected the party leadership on the 22nd of February, 2024 by conducting a primary election by himself and declared himself a winner. It is an offence to be expelled by the State Working Committee (SWC), whereas, the party's legitimate primary election, supervised by all statutory bodies was conducted on that same day, which saw Dr. Asue Ighodalo as the authentic and legitimate candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to contest the September 21, Governorship Election. All aspirants were present in Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium for the primary election that Dr. Asue Ighodalo emerged the winner, except the two that withdrew from the race, Rt. Hon. Omo

Obaseki inspects ongoing devt of Edo Radisson Hotel, says project to be completed in November

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the 170-room Edo Radisson Hotel will be completed before the end of his administration in November 2024.

Obaseki gave the assurance during a meeting with a team and officials from Radisson Hotel, Dubai after which he led the team on a tour of the facilities to inspect and ascertain the progress of work done in the last three months.

The governor said, “A great amount of work has been done in the last three months, as the facial aspect of the hotel is being cleaned up and a lot of work is going on in all the floors. I am quite satisfied with the progress of work as we are making very fast progress. We are optimistic that the project will be completed in due time.

“We are here today to inspect and make sure it fits the Radisson Hotel standard. We have a team from Radisson Dubai to look at the project. Before the team lends their name to any project, they make sure it meets certain minimum international standards. From the brief meeting we had with them, they are satisfied that we are on track.

“This project will be completed before I leave office in November 2024,” the governor reassured.

Other government officials at the inspection include the Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Project, Crusoe Osagie, and Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, amongst others.

The hotel, which is the Radisson Group’s 12th hotel in Nigeria, officially marks its debut in Benin City.

The hotel’s array of Scandinavian-inspired accommodations will range from contemporary standard rooms to expansive executive suites, including a presidential suite.

Creating a social hub for delectable cuisine, the hotel’s gastronomic offering will include a lobby bar and café, an all-day dining restaurant as well as a pool bar and grill. To provide a harmonious stay, guests can also unwind in the hotel’s gym and spa.

The Radisson Hotel Benin City is situated in the prime Government Reserved Area (GRA). Conveniently accessible via the airport and Benin-Sapele roads, the two main arteries of the city, the hotel is just five minutes-drive from the Benin Airport and on the doorstep of the Benin Golf Course and the city’s commercial center.

It is also within close proximity to various security offices, such as the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Police Force, providing an additional security presence in the vicinity of the hotel.

The hotel’s meetings and events spaces will consist of a-507sqm sub-divisible ballroom, three meeting rooms and a pre-function area for a wide range of tailored events.

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Consultant, COSTEC, Agele Alufohai; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Secretary to the Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., during the 170-room Edo Radisson Hotel, in Benin City, on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.

Obaseki boosts emergency response with launch of Edo EMS

...trains 200 community-based first responders

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has boosted emergency response with the launch of the first phase of the emergency medical services in the State.

The emergency medical service provides toll free numbers of 112 and 739 linked to the Solomon Arase Command and Control Centre in the State to enable residents to get medical services within a space of ten minutes.

The Edo EMS emergency medical services number for prompt response to emergency health issues covers Oredo, Egor, and other selected parts of the State for the first or pilot phase of the programme. 200 Community-Based First Responders (CBFR) are to be trained in the next one week to flag off the programme.

Speaking to the 200 CBFR, at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), Governor Godwin Obaseki said the Edo EMS emergency medical services number is one of the most innovative services that has been launched in Nigeria's healthcare system.

According to him, “The Edo Emergency Medical Services is an integrated system, as you can't do one without the other. You must have a network of responders, carefully selected people across the network, give them required training and support, have communication devices, and a functional command and control Center where calls come in as each step is monitored, and a system that pays for these services on a sustainable basis. In Nigeria, we have not been able to sustain our emergency response.

"We have been able to crack it in Edo State and I am here to be trained as an emergency responder. We must care for our people and care for each other. We have partners ready to collaborate with us as they are truly committed to providing emergency services for our people.”

He further noted, "This service is possible because of the diligent steps taken in the last six years as a government to think through how to provide services for our people and citizens, particularly in the healthcare sector. We realized early that healthcare is not equal to hospitals but a system that provides for the well-being of the people.

"Early in my administration, we decided on the health improvement plan for Edo State and thanks to the CMD of UBTH who was with us in the beginning when we conceptualized what you are seeing today.

"We must decentralize health care, and make sure the primary health care system works as that system has recruited most of the responders we see here today. Healthcare is all about having committed and dedicated people that will man the healthcare system and make it work.”

Speaking on the State’s Health Insurance Scheme and efforts to make healthcare affordable for Edo residents, Obaseki said: “Our own health insurance scheme is one of the best run in Nigeria as we have over 200,000 enrollees in the short term we have established it. The enrollees have been paying their premium diligently and we are proud of their services.”

He charged the responders, “You are the most critical factor as you are being trained as emergency responders. I want to thank you for volunteering yourself to receive the training and skills required to provide the support. I want to assure you that we have thought it through very carefully as yours is a network to be encouraged and supported because you are a critical factor in saving lives in Edo State.”

Representative of Partner Emergency Response Africa, Folake Owodunni who made a presentation on Project Overview of Edo EMS said emergency care is the right of every citizen and should be accessed by everyone in the State.

She noted, “We have selected 200 responders who will be trained as we have developed a robust training curriculum. We have revitalized and prepared four ambulances for the pilot phase for Oredo, Egor and selected parts of the State.”

PHOTO CAPTION

L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Kingsley Uwagbale; Project Director, ERA, Folake Owodunni; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Project Manager, ERA, Kate Ibeanusi, and Health Commissioner, Dr. Samuel Alli, during the launching of the first phase of the emergency medical services in Edo State, on Tuesday, March 5, 2024.