Okpebholo Pledges Stronger Security, Inclusive Growth for Edo in 2026

Okpebholo Pledges Stronger Security, Inclusive Growth for Edo in 2026

Kingsley Ohens reporting

Benin City, January 1, 2026 — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured residents of renewed hope, improved security, and inclusive development as the state enters 2026, describing the year as a defining phase of “Hope and Growth” for Edo State.

In his New Year address to the people of the state, the Governor reflected on the achievements and challenges of 2025, which marked his administration’s first full year in office. He expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the state through what he described as a period of steady but deliberate progress, despite significant inherited difficulties.

According to Governor Okpebholo, his administration assumed office amid daunting challenges, including widespread insecurity, deteriorated road networks, weak institutions, poor infrastructure, and declining public trust in governance.

“When we came into office, Edo State was confronted with insecurity, bad roads, weak institutions, and low public confidence. With the support and cooperation of Edo people, the narrative is changing for the better,” the Governor said.

Operating under the SHINE Agenda, the Governor noted that his government has recorded measurable progress across critical sectors such as security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, economic development, and job creation. He emphasized that his leadership approach prioritizes concrete actions and results over rhetoric.

While acknowledging that substantial work still lies ahead, Governor Okpebholo said his administration remains resolute in addressing persistent challenges, including road rehabilitation, food security, employment generation, and the remnants of cultism and violent criminal networks in parts of the state.

“The challenges we inherited have not disappeared overnight. But we are confronting them decisively and systematically,” he stated.

The Governor disclosed that since November 2024, his administration has intensified its crackdown on criminal activities through enhanced intelligence gathering, strengthened law enforcement operations, lawful arrests, and the demolition of criminal hideouts across Edo State.
He further announced that 2026 would witness the deployment of more robust security strategies and technology, including the introduction of a dedicated security hotline to enable residents to report criminal activities in real time.

“We will not allow kidnapping or cult-related violence to thrive in Edo State. Our security agencies are fully briefed and prepared to respond swiftly to any threat to peace and public safety,” the Governor assured.

Looking ahead, Governor Okpebholo described 2026 as a year of renewed optimism and inclusive growth, pledging that development would reach every community across the state.

“2026 is the Year of Hope and Growth — hope because we must never give up on Edo’s future, and growth because progress must be felt in every sector and every part of the state,” he said.

He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support, while commending political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, civil society organizations, and the people of Edo State for their cooperation and commitment to peace.

The Governor called on residents to embrace unity, hard work, and peaceful coexistence in the New Year.

“As we begin this New Year, let us choose peace over violence, hard work over shortcuts, and hope over fear,” he appealed.

The statement was issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Ebojele Akhere Patrick, who reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to transparent communication and people-focused governance as Edo State moves forward in 2026.

Governor Okpebholo concluded by wishing all residents a peaceful and prosperous New Year, expressing optimism that 2026 would bring lasting peace, progress, and shared prosperity to Edo State.