Ken osa Airen Media

02/11/2023

*Akerele, a tainted opportunist attempts to escape ignominy with attack on Obaseki's legacy*

*_By Hon. Ologun Peters_*

Akerele, who enjoyed the privilege of being appointed as one of the youngest Chiefs of Staff in the country by Obaseki, squandered the privilege by exiting the Godwin Obaseki-led administration in the thick of the face-off between Governor Obaseki and his predecessor, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole.

He was one of Governor Obaseki’s first appointees, who had previously served as an executive in the Edo State Employment and Expenditure for Result (SEEFOR) programme in the State.

Akerele recently took umbrage at Governor Obaseki’s message to leaders and partying faithful in Igarra, headquarters of Akoko Edo Local Government Area, during the inauguration of newly appointed Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) and Special Assistants (SAs) in the local government.
https://www.naijametronews.com/akerele-a-tainted-opportunist-attempts-to-escape-ignominy-with-attack-on

27/10/2023

The pupils of Ohuoba Primary School are some of the 72,000 pupils in 336 schools directly benefitting from this phase of infrastructure projects of the Godwin Obaseki administration. Go and verify!

We are fixing our infrastructure, one school at a time.

Keep politics out of the classrooms.

25/10/2023

summit
@8-12NOV 2023..

13/10/2023

*OBASEKI MAKES CASE FOR DEMOCRATISATION OF EDUCATION IN NIGERIA*

*_...says over 400,000 children benefiting from Edo basic education reforms_*

*_…Edo First Lady expresses satisfaction with impact of reforms in education sector_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for the democratisation of education in Nigeria to bridge the education gap and address the country’s dysfunctional education system.

The governor made the call during a courtesy visit by members and executives of the Federal Government Girls College, Benin Alumni Association, at the Government House in Benin City.

Obaseki congratulated the school on their silver jubilee celebration, acknowledging the efforts of former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Gen Samuel Ogbemudia, and the then Minister of Education in the creation of the school.

He said, “We lobbied for the school to be set up in Benin City at that time and the focus and creativity of our governor was to acquire a large portion of land designated as an education hub as you have the University of Benin, and Benin Technical College close to you.

“This school and all others set up at that time were to be part of a system as the thinking after the civil war was to create a united country and also give opportunity for our diversity relating to gender.”

Obaseki continued: “The issue of educating the girl-child is not new to us as a State. That is why we were very concerned when we came into office seven years ago. We concentrated on what was going on with the girl-child following incidents of human trafficking and irregular migration. This led us to prioritise education, particularly education for the girl-child.

“We have turned the situation around as Edo is no longer amongst the first 10 States in the country in terms of human trafficking. We are not where we want to be but will ensure that the examples of institutional building we have seen in the Federal Government Girls College Benin and other Federal Government Colleges across the country trickle down across our educational system.

“This is necessary so that we don’t create a dangerous situation that is emanating from the country with the opportunity gap because of the educational divide we have created. We must democratize quality education and make sure that we remove issues or incidents of learning poverty from our country as we have emphasised education in Edo State.”

He further noted, “We have reset the education system in Edo State through basic education. In Edo State, we have ensured that every child, particularly the girl-child has access to high-quality basic education which is the foundation upon which every other thing rests.

“We are glad today that we have almost 400,000 of these children in our school system. We know each and every one of them as we are able to monitor them through the use of technology. Our goal is to make sure that every child in Edo at the age of 10 is able to read, write, and do their sums right. We are already seeing the results.

“As a State, when a child comes into our educational custody at the age of 6 years, we have responsibility for that child till that child is 15 years old as we create the basics for that child to live a self-sustained life even if that child doesn't have opportunity to go forward.”

Obaseki charged, “You have to belong to the group that will advocate for proper transformation of the education system in Nigeria. Our education is in crisis as our education managers have messed things up. The dropout ratio between primary six and SS1 is 50 percent which is responsible for high trafficking in Nigeria as we have to build the education sector in the country to be able to optimise our potential.”

The leader of the delegation of the alumni body and Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, thanked the governor for the developmental strides in the State especially in the education sector.

*PHOTO CAPTION*

L-R (front row): Principal, Federal Government Girls College (FGGC), Benin, Aghedo Osamudiame; Deputy Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Edeko; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, his wife, Mrs. Betsy; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., and the Chairperson, FGGC Benin 50th anniversary planning committee, Engr. Elozino Olaniyan, during a courtesy visit by members and executives of the Federal Government Girls College, Benin Alumni Association.

11/10/2023

ALAGHODARO SUMMIT 2023 : THE EDO STORY
*BENIN MODULAR REFINARY
*THE OSSIOMO POWER PLANT
*THE GELE-GELE PORT
*EMOTAN GARDEN
*RADISSON HOTEL
*THE BENIN CITY MALL.
*THE EDO INNOVATIVE HUB.
*COLLEGE OF AGRIC
*OVER 2,000 CONSTRUCTED ROADS
AND OTHERS
EDO HAS A GOOD STORY TO TELL...

08/10/2023

*Edo unveils plans, activities for 2023 Alaghodaro*

The Edo State Government has unveiled plans and programme of activities for the seventh edition of the Alaghodaro Investment Summit, organised yearly by the private sector in the State to mark the anniversary of Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration.

In a statement, the Chairperson, Local Organising Committee and Executive Secretary, Alaghodaro Economic Summit Limited/Gte, Eire Ifueko Alufohai, said the five-day event will spotlight the groundbreaking policies and remarkable reforms implemented by Obaseki’s administration that have transformed the lives of millions of Edo people and ensured economic prosperity for the State.

She said the 2023 edition of the summit, with the theme, “The Edo Story: Creating Shared Opportunities into the Future,” will take place between Wednesday, November 8 and Sunday, November 12, 2023, in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

According to her, the event will also serve as a platform for investors, government officials, business leaders, and other key stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions, explore partnerships, and envision a prosperous future for Edo State.

Alufohai listed some of the activities to include; Edo Women Conference, Ancient City Tour, Cocktail, Summit, Muslim Prayer, Award Night/Dinner, Governor’s Golf Tournament, Food and Fun Fair, Youth Summit, and Thanksgiving Service.

She noted, “This year’s edition of the Alaghodaro Investment Summit promises to be a rollercoaster of excitement and discovery voyage, being the last summit that will be celebrated under the leadership of our performing Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

“With the theme ‘The Edo Story: Creating shared opportunities into the future,’ the summit will focus on the numerous achievements of the Obaseki-led government over the past seven years, highlighting how the government has harnessed strategic partnerships across various sectors to build a solid socio-economic base that is now positively impacting the lives of Edo people.”

Alufohai further noted, “The activities lined up for this year’s summit 2023 include the Edo Women Conference scheduled for Wednesday, November 8, 2023, which will be followed by Ancient City Tour and Cocktail on Thursday, November 9, 2023.

“On Friday, November 10, 2023, will be the main Alaghodaro Summit event, Muslim Prayer, as well as an Award and Dinner Night, while the Governor’s Golf Tournament, Food and Fun Fair, and Youth Concert will take place on Saturday, November 11, 2023. The event will end on Saturday, November 12, 2023, with Thanksgiving Service.”

She charged Edolites, “We urge Edo people to be part of this epoch-making event as we showcase the innovative policies, gains of reforms, plans, programmes and projects designed and implemented by the Obaseki-led administration, through targeted investment, partnerships and collaborative efforts that have continued to transform the lives of millions of Edo people and placed the State on the path of sustainable economic growth and development.”

02/10/2023

01/10/2023

*63rd INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY: OBASEKI APPLAUDS NIGERIANS’ RESILIENCE AMID CURRENT ECONOMIC REALITIES*

*_…urges prayers for nation's unity, progress_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has commended the resilience and indefatigable spirit of Nigerians, who in the face of the current economic realities of the country, have continued to keep alive as they struggle to earn a living daily.

The governor, in a statement in celebration of Nigeria's 63rd Independence anniversary, urged Nigerians to continue to pray and work in unity to overcome the country’s present economic challenges.

He said, “My dear good people of Edo State, I am delighted to celebrate the 63rd Independence anniversary of our dear country, Nigeria, with you. Today is a day of reflection; a moment to pause and ponder on our collective journey as a people and nation, celebrate our achievements, acknowledge our challenges, and reaffirm our commitment towards ensuring a more united, progressive and prosperous Nigeria.

“Ours is a story of courage, resilience, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of a people. Our founding fathers, driven by a vision of unity and shared prosperity, fought tirelessly to lay the foundation of our dear nation, liberating us from the shackles of colonialism and instituting our long march to nationhood and greatness.”

Obaseki further noted, “Despite the successes so far recorded in these past 63 years, we yet grapple with multiple challenges occasioned by economic, security, political and ethnic pressures. However, our enduring faith and belief in the unity and progress of our country have endured, keeping us together as one nation.

“I must commend the dogged and indefatigable spirit of our people, who in the face of many daunting difficulties continue to slug it out daily to earn a living, especially amid the current economic realities.

"As a government, we are not unaware of the dire economic difficulties that our people currently face, which has inflicted hardship and suffering on the people, especially the poor and vulnerable.”

According to Obaseki, his administration is implementing measures to caution the impact of the removal of subsidy, noting, “We are taking critical steps as a subnational, initiating and implementing nuanced policies and programmes to respond to the recent fuel subsidy removal policy by the Federal Government and as much as possible, cushion its impact on our people in Edo State.

“We have introduced free transport service for passengers on all routes operated by the state-owned Edo City Transport Service Limited (ECTS), among many support programmes that the Edo State Government have put in place to reduce the challenge, sufferings and exorbitant cost of living faced by Edo people as a result of the subsidy removal and economic headwinds.

“We are glad with the impact of this initiative which covers 13 intra-city routes and several intercity city routes daily, covering towns and villages within the State’s three senatorial districts. Over 307, 908 residents have benefited from the scheme in the first two weeks of the palliative programme, while over 1, 527, 000 residents are projected to benefit in the initial two months of the free transport initiative.”

He added, “We have launched 24-hour free Wi-Fi service in various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and other public places in the State to provide unlimited internet access to workers and other residents to enable them work effectively and efficiently from selected public spaces.

“This is in addition to other far-reaching reforms and initiatives to engender economic growth and improve the quality of life of our people, ensuring they are empowered to confront the challenges that lie ahead.”

He then charged, “As we celebrate our 63rd Independence today, I call on all Edo people and Nigerians to stand united, regardless of our political, tribal, ideological, and religious differences and work together towards building a more prosperous and progressive Edo State and Nigeria.

“We must also continue to pray for the unity, peace and progress of our dear nation. Together, we can overcome our present socio-economic challenges and place our country on the path of sustainable economic growth and development, ensuring that the labour of our heroes' past is truly not in vain.”

28/09/2023

*Obaseki accepts Shaibu’s apology, says to err is human, to forgive divine*

*_… says dep gov’s unwarranted provocation caused him severe personal discomfort_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has accepted the public apology made by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu, noting that as a person of faith, he was under obligation to accept the apology.

In a letter titled, “Re: Public Apology By The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu,” the governor said in good faith, he trusts that the public apology as expressed by Shaibu is genuine and followed by contrite steps to improve his conflict resolution skills.

The letter reads: “I have noted the public apology made by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu. This apology followed an aberrant behaviour that contradicts what the people of Edo State stand for.

“To name a few, the Deputy Governor needlessly filed unfounded petitions in the Nigerian courts restraining me, the State House of Assembly and Security agencies from a non-existent impeachment process, followed by repeated breaches of protocol; unwarranted and unprovoked attacks in the media on my person and the State Government. The media frenzy as a result of the above and more, provided an impression of crises that has been precarious and distasteful to Edo people in the State and across the world.

“Although these unwarranted provocations caused me severe personal discomfort, as a person of faith, I am under obligation to accept this apology because as they say, “to err is human, to forgive is divine.”

Obaseki further noted, “In good faith, I trust that the public apology as expressed by the Deputy Governor is genuine and followed by contrite steps to improve his conflict resolution skills. I also enjoin the Deputy Governor to guide his proxies to act in accordance with his piety.”

He added, “It is my sincere hope and that of my other colleagues in government and all well-meaning Edo people, that these rhetorics will be put to an end forthwith to enable this administration finish strong and deliver the dividends of democracy to the greatest number of Edo people over this final twelve (12) months.”



*RE: PUBLIC APOLOGY BY THE EDO STATE DEPUTY GOVERNOR, PHILIP SHAIBU*

I have noted the public apology made by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu. This apology followed an aberrant behaviour that contradicts what the people of Edo State stand for.

To name a few, the Deputy Governor needlessly filed unfounded petitions in the Nigerian courts restraining me, the State House of Assembly and Security agencies from a non-existent impeachment process, followed by repeated breaches of protocol; unwarranted and unprovoked attacks in the media on my person and the State Government. The media frenzy as a result of the above and more, provided an impression of crises that has been precarious and distasteful to Edo people in the State and across the world.

Although these unwarranted provocations caused me severe personal discomfort, as a person of faith, I am under obligation to accept this apology because as they say, “to err is human, to forgive is divine.”

In good faith, I trust that the public apology as expressed by the Deputy Governor is genuine and followed by contrite steps to improve his conflict resolution skills. I also enjoin the Deputy Governor to guide his proxies to act in accordance with his piety.

It is my sincere hope and that of my other colleagues in government and all well-meaning Edo people, that these rhetorics will be put to an end forthwith to enable this administration finish strong and deliver the dividends of democracy to the greatest number of Edo people over this final twelve (12) months.

*His Excellency,*
*Godwin Obaseki,*
_Governor, Edo State._

20/09/2023

*2024 Polls: Edo Central stakeholders condemn Shaibu over attempt to blackmail Obaseki to abandon zoning arrangement*

Stakeholders in Edo Central Senatorial District have called on the Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, to exercise restraint and stop the incessant blackmail in a bid to pressure the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to disregard the senatorial zoning arrangement of the State for the region to produce the next governor of the State.

The stakeholders who spoke during a press conference held at the premises of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Chapter, in Benin City, said the frustration Shaibu is expressing is only a decoy to make it seem as if he is being victimised by Obaseki whereas he is intoxicated by his inordinate ambition to become the next governor of the State.

Speaking on behalf of the Edo Central people, the Convener of Esan Advocates for Good Governance (EAFGG), Comrade Bartholomew Okoudo, charged Edo people not to be deceived by all the tantrums, blackmail, and display of entitlement by the Deputy Governor, which are failed attempts to force the governor to yield to pressure so that he can have his way.

According to him, “The people of Edo Central Senatorial District are calling on the Edo State Deputy Governor, Comrade Philip Shaibu, to exercise restraint and stop the incessant blackmail of the Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in a bid to pressure the governor to yield to pressure to disregard the senatorial zoning arrangement to produce the next governor of the State.

“His frequent tirade is to get the Governor to endorse his candidacy for the governorship election holding next year. This is the singular reason he is employing different tricks to box the governor into a corner and extract a commitment.

“Shaibu’s attempt to curry public sympathy is aimed at arm-twisting the governor. The frustration he is expressing is only a coy way to make it seem as if he is being victimised, but everyone knows he is intoxicated by his inordinate ambition.

“Shaibu thinks everything must be by force. It is on record that the people of Edo North Senatorial District produced Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who is also from Etsako West Local Government Area. He served for eight years between 2008 and 2016 before handing over to the incumbent governor, Obaseki, a Benin man, who was produced by the people of Edo South Senatorial District.”

The stakeholders continued: “The lot to produce the next governor according to the zoning arrangement is on the Edo Central Senatorial District, who have never had the opportunity to produce the governor of the State except the short-lived tenure of Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor, between May 2007 and November 2008.

“The shenanigans by Comrade Shaibu aimed at blackmailing the governor in pursuit of his unreasonable and desperate ambition to become the next governor at all cost will not work and must be resisted by all well-meaning Edo people.

“During the administration of Chief Lucky Igbinedion, between 1999 and 2007, the Deputy Governor at the time was Chief Mike Oghiadomhe from Etsako in Edo North Senatorial District. He also served for eight years.

“This was followed by Oshiomhole, also from Etsako West as Governor and now Comrade Philip Shaibu, from Etsako West, who is almost completing eight years tenure as deputy governor.

“How then can he be aspiring to be the next governor? Is this fair and equitable? What is the fate of the other local government areas and senatorial districts in the State?” the stakeholders queried.

Okoudo further noted, “We understand that the Deputy Governor has his right to aspire for any political position in the State and Country, but we urge him to stop these charades to pressure the governor into neglecting the zoning arrangement. His agitation runs against the spirit of fairness and equity.

“From Shaibu running to the Federal High Court in Abuja, asking for a restraining order to stop Governor Obaseki from impeaching him to spreading falsehoods about the Governor preventing him from performing his roles as deputy and causing various scenes at public events and public places, it has all been an engineered charade to make the Governor seem unapproachable.

“The most recent of these is his attempt to force his way into the personal office of the Governor along with his security aides at the Dennis Osadebe Avenue, GRA, Benin City.

“The Deputy Governor who has worked with Governor Obaseki over the past seven years should know him better that no amount of pressure to blackmail him will force the governor to support him in his inordinate quest.”

He charged, “We the people of Edo Central Senatorial District are calling on him to stop this charade and follow the path of peace in the spirit of equity and fairness.

“There is peace and security in Edo and we urge the Deputy Governor not to create the scene that there is no peace in Edo through his actions and desperate moves.”

20/09/2023

*Alaghodaro 2023: Edo inaugurates Planning C’ttee of summit’s 7th edition, unveils theme*

_*...to showcase opportunities for State’s prosperity created by Obaseki in 7 years*_

The Chairman, Alaghodaro Economic Summit Limited/Gte, Mr. Asue Ighodalo, has said the seventh edition of the Alaghodaro Summit will be used to showcase the innovative policies and gains of reforms implemented by the State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, to create prosperity for the State and improve the livelihoods of Edo people.

Ighodalo said this at the inauguration of the sub-committees for the 2023 Alaghodaro Summit, held in Government House, Benin City.

The Chairman, who was represented by a Board member and Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., said, “It is with great delight that I welcome you all to the inauguration ceremony of the planning committee for Alaghodaro 2023: The Edo Summit.

According to him: “The Alaghodaro Summit, since its first edition in 2017, has become a veritable tool to share ideas and discuss initiatives that have delivered positive impact to the people of Edo State and opened the State to investment from the rest of the world.

“This year’s summit is themed; The Edo Story: Creating Shared Opportunities into the Future and being the Governor’s last summit in office, it will showcase the innovative policies, gains of reforms, plans, programmes and projects designed and implemented by this administration, through targeted investment, partnership and collaborative efforts and innovations across critical sectors of the State.”

He further noted, “In constituting this planning committee, we were very careful and deliberate in selecting from among the brightest and the best of our people and we are delighted that you decided to answer this call to serve the people of Edo State. I urge members of the Committee to be meticulous and diligent in the discharge of this assignment and to ensure compliance with the terms of reference. This is a serious task, and history beckons on you not to disappoint our people.

“It is now my singular honour to formally inaugurate the planning committee for the 2023 Alaghodaro: The Edo Summit. I wish members of the planning committee a resounding success in the discharge of their responsibilities and the hosting of the summit.”

In her remarks, the Chairperson, Local Organising Committee and Executive Secretary, Alaghodaro Economic Summit Limited/Gte, Eire Ifueko Alufohai, said the summit will hold between November 8 and 12, adding, “On Wednesday, November 8, there will be a Press Conference and the Edo Women Conference, a programme, which is being worked on. On Thursday, November 9, 2023, there will be the Ancient City Tour which will end with a cocktail at the Secretariat.

“Friday, November 10 will be the actual day of the Summit and a Muslim prayer. In the evening of the same day, there will be an Award Night/Dinner. On Saturday, November 11, there will be the Governor’s Cup, a Golf Tournament. This will be followed by a Food Fair - the Edo Market. In the evening of the same day, there will be a Youth Summit. The following day, Sunday, November 12, there will be a Thanksgiving.”

The Sub-committees include Sponsorship and Finance; Hospitality, Logistics, Protocol and Security; Programme and Content; Communication and Branding; Ancient City Tour; Alaghodaro Secretariat, among others.

Members of the Sponsorship & Finance include Accountant General EDSG, Toju Onaiwu, Samuel Abada, Edgar Ogiamen and Osarumwense Ogbeide-lhama. Members of the Programme and Content committee are Onoise Onoghinon, Nnanna Ude, Chris Nehikhare, Osayamen Mokogwu, Osahon Ojomo and Aiseosa Osaghae.

Members of the Communication and Branding Committee include: Crusoe Osagie, Andrew Okungbowa and Innocent Omoaka.

Those in the Hospitality, Logistics, Protocol and Security committee are Isoken Omo, Kingsley Uwagbale, Director of Protocol, Government House, Chief Security Officer, Government House, Elvis Osagiobare, Usifo David, and Moses Idenala.

Members of the Ancient City Tour committee are: Ethan Uzamere, Uyi Malaka, Crusoe Osagie, Osayamen Mokogwu, Yuwa Aladeselu, Imudia Iyamu, Izegaegbe Joy, Steve Omorogbe and John McDonald.

Members of the Alaghodaro Secretariat are: Aiseosa Osaghae, Chimaobim Okeke, Kamara Egbuchua, Magaret Ohiafi, and Linda Emale.

The Exhibition Coordinators are: Yamen Mokogwu and Hope Osung, while the Event Coordinator is Yuwa Aladeselu.

19/09/2023

The height of Betrayal...

19/09/2023

Philip Shaibu's behaviour has become too embarrassing..
Edo people are watching...

19/09/2023

SHAIBU NOTIFIED OF RELOCATION TO NEW OFFICE LAST WEEK...

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, was informed of his relocation to a new office last week, fresh details have shown.

A letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie, dated September 15, 2023, and sent to the Office of the Deputy Governor on the same day has emerged.

The deputy governor was last week notified by the letter that his office accommodation had been moved to No. 7, Dennis Osadebe Avenue, GRA.

According to the SSG, "I write to inform you that His Excellency, the Governor has approved the relocation of your office accommodation to No. 7, Dennis Osadebe Avenue, GRA, Benin City.

"You are therefore requested to ensure your compliance in line with Mr. Governor's approval, please."

18/09/2023

*BREAKING: Edo Deputy Gov, Shaibu attempts to force his way into Gov's Office*

The Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, on Monday, attempted to force his way into the Governor's Office on Dennis Osadebey Avenue, GRA, Benin City.

With his security aides in his entourage, Shaibu arrived at the governor's office and tried to access the backgate of the office, attempting to break through the locked gate, with the intention to force a face-off with the Governor.

04/09/2023

*Throw in everything to serve our people, Obaseki charges newly sworn-in Edo council chairmen*

*_…urges on creativity, innovation to drive devt at grassroots_*

*_…hails Edo people, assures sustained devt no matter distraction_*

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has charged the 18 newly sworn-in local council executives to throw in everything they have to serve Edo people.

Obaseki gave the charge during the swearing in of the local council chairmen at the Government House, in Benin City, the Edo State capital.

The council excos were elected on Saturday, September 2, 2023, after a keenly contested local government election that was held across the State’s 18 local government areas, with the ruling party, People Democratic Party (PDP) the chairmanship of the 18LGAs, including those of the councillors.

The governor said he is glad with the quality of the people his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has produced and who have now been elected to serve the people at the grassroots.

He said, “I have worked with every one of them here and know their capacity because I have had assignments for them and know how they delivered on it. I have no doubt in my mind that they have the capacity and what it takes to take the State to where it should be.

“You will all agree with me that local government is perhaps one of the foundations on which our democracy rests. You all saw on Saturday that every polling unit where people voted were residents, so local government is the foundation where our democracy rests, and therefore this very tier of government must be strengthened.

“Gone are the days where we just elect people who can barely read or write to become local government chairmen. I am glad we have amongst you people who have PhDs, and Medical Doctors, among others. So, you possess the requisite backgrounds and experiences you have gathered in the course of life. I believe we have the core of men and women who are properly prepared to manage our local government going forward.”

The governor continued: “Therefore, this mandate requires that you throw in everything that you have and is required to make a difference, as you have the qualification, experience, and know-how; you now must show innovation. As a government, we are moving Edo into the Fourth Industrial era.

“We are connecting all the local government areas in the State with fibre optics connections, we are moving the government to a digital platform and I am sure you will see the advantage of moving your people and the local government administration to catch up with what the State is doing.”

Obaseki urged the chairmen to be creative and focus on the key policies and programmes of the government to drive all-around development at the grassroots.

He said that education is a key priority, urging the new Council Chairmen to help strengthen the achievement of this administration in the education sector.

He noted, “A lot of innovation has taken place in education in the local government areas as we expect you to support our system.

“We are redesigning our secondary education system and have selected a pilot of about 54 schools to start the digital secondary education from next quarter where our students are going to use computers alone at the secondary level. We need your support as council chairmen as it's without Federal Government support.

“We would also collaborate with you in the area of the environment as we have done so much in the last seven years but are not proud in the area of sanitation. I urge you to make the area of sanitation a priority as the environment is a big issue around the world today as floods are being experienced due to our neglect.”

He added, “The outcome of the process that brought you to office has been outstanding as I campaigned with all of you around the local government areas and I am not surprised that you won but what amazed me is the love and support, which our people have for our party. Please, don't let them down as they made it possible for you to be sworn in today, so make them your priority.”

The governor reassured, “I thank the people of Edo State as you made history again. You have shown that you believe in us and will always be there for us. I want to recommit ourselves as an administration that no matter the distraction, or obstacle thrown on our way, you will always be our priority as we put in everything we have to make Edo great again.”

Responding on behalf of other Chairmen, Hon. Tajudeen Alade Suleman, expressed gratitude to the governor and people of Edo State for the opportunity to serve the people of the State.

He noted, “We reassure you that we will not fail you and the people of Edo State. We would walk round the clock to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people as we hit the ground running, taking advantage of the platform created for us. We will collaborate with you to make Edo the pride of the nation. You have done everything possible for the party to be sustained in Edo State, come 2024 you will produce your successor, and your successor will continue from where you stopped.”

*PHOTO NEWS*

*DSC_01*

L-R (front row): Chairman, Oredo Local Government Council, Dr. Tom Obaseki; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq., and Chairman, Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Newman Ugiagbe, after the swearing-in of elected local council chairmen, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Monday, September 4, 2023.

*DSC_02*

L-R: Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA), Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and Chairman, Edo State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, at the swearing-in of elected local council chairmen, at the Government House, in Benin City, on Monday, September 4, 2023.