Okpebholo Advocates Stronger Italy–Edo Partnership Through Culture, Investment, and Security

Okpebholo Advocates Stronger Italy–Edo Partnership Through Culture, Investment, and Security

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscopmedia

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations between Edo State and the Italian Republic, identifying cultural exchange as a strategic gateway for economic growth, global relevance, and sustainable development.

The governor made this known in Benin City while receiving the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Italy in Abuja, Mr. Iacopo Foti, during a courtesy visit to the state. Mr. Foti was in Edo State following his participation in the recently concluded Edo Carnival, a flagship cultural event that celebrates the state’s heritage and creative identity.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized that Edo State remains open to mutually beneficial partnerships with Italy, particularly in areas of culture, creativity, enterprise, and investment. He noted that sub-national diplomacy and collaboration are increasingly critical in a globalized economy.

“We are willing to welcome strategic collaborations between Edo State as a sub-national entity and Italy in areas that will benefit us mutually,” the governor said. “Edo State is rich in culture, history, creativity, and enterprise, and we believe partnerships built on these strengths will yield lasting dividends.”

The visit also featured extensive stakeholder engagement across Edo State’s three senatorial districts. Mr. Foti held discussions with senior state and political leaders, including the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; Deputy Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Sylvester Aigbobor; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere; Chief Executive Officer of Ocean Wave Group, Mr. Peter Black Omoh Dunia; and the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, among other prominent stakeholders from Edo South, Central, and North.

Earlier, the Italian Deputy Head of Mission expressed admiration for Edo State, describing his visit as both enlightening and inspiring. He stated that his interactions with residents revealed a peaceful, forward-looking society—contrary to perceptions often portrayed outside the state.

Mr. Foti highlighted Edo’s rich history, vibrant culture, and entrepreneurial spirit, noting that his experience in Benin City affirmed why the state is proudly known as the “Heartbeat of Nigeria.” He described the Edo Carnival as an authentic representation of the people’s traditions and cultural identity.

Drawing parallels between Italy and Edo State, Mr. Foti observed that both societies share a deep respect for history while actively embracing modernity.

“Italy is a nation with a rich cultural heritage, from Renaissance art to historic streets shaped by time,” he said. “Our traditions remind us of the importance of honoring the past while looking forward with vision and determination. In Edo State, I see a similar spirit—a proud people who honor their past and confidently shape their future.”

He further commended Governor Okpebholo for his administration’s efforts in strengthening security across Edo State, noting that a safe environment remains fundamental for tourism, investment, and long-term development.

Mr. Foti also underscored the growing diplomatic and cultural ties between Italy and Nigeria, citing expanding economic relations, increasing cultural exchanges, shared enthusiasm for football, and the rising number of Nigerians studying and visiting Italy. He equally acknowledged the growing Italian interest in Nigeria’s culture and history, with many Italians now considering the country a second home.

According to him, both Italy and Edo State share common strengths beyond official statistics, including strong historical identities, the critical role of small and medium-scale enterprises, thriving film industries, and globally admired fashion and design cultures.

Governor Okpebholo affirmed that these shared values provide a solid foundation for deeper cooperation, assuring the Italian delegation of Edo State’s readiness to engage meaningfully in cultural, economic, and creative-sector partnerships.

The development was confirmed in an official statement issued by Dr. Ebojele Akhere Patrick, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State, who noted that the engagement reflects the Okpebholo administration’s broader vision of leveraging culture and diplomacy as tools for economic expansion, international goodwill, and sustainable development.