Okpebholo Seeks Public Collaboration, Prayers for Improved Governance in 2026

Okpebholo Seeks Public Collaboration, Prayers for Improved Governance in 2026

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

Benin City, Nigeria – January 1, 2026

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has appealed to residents of the state to sustain their collaboration, commitment, support, and prayers as his administration works toward delivering improved governance and better living conditions in 2026.

The governor made the call while addressing journalists after attending a cross-over night service at Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), located along Sapele Road in Benin City. He was accompanied by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, alongside key members of the Edo State Executive Council.

Governor Okpebholo noted that the collective support and prayers of Edo people played a critical role in the achievements recorded by his administration in 2025, particularly through the implementation of the SHINE Agenda. He expressed optimism that the new year would usher in greater progress, guided by divine direction and strengthened public cooperation.

According to the governor, his administration remains committed to a practical, people-centered approach to governance aimed at driving sustainable development, enhancing security, and fostering a business-friendly environment capable of attracting local and foreign investments into Edo State.

Reflecting on the previous year, Governor Okpebholo acknowledged that 2025 was marked by significant challenges but emphasized that resilience, faith, and public support enabled the state to overcome major obstacles. He encouraged residents to approach 2026 with renewed determination, courage, and unity.

Describing the new year as one filled with hope, growth, and development, the governor assured Edo citizens of his administration’s resolve to decisively address insecurity. He reiterated that the government has declared total war on cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities, recording notable progress in the fight.

“This is a year of hope and growth. I believe 2026 will be stress-free for Edo people. Insecurity will no longer be a problem. We will confront criminality head-on and ensure Edo State is safe for all,” the governor said.

He further assured that the government would consolidate existing gains to guarantee lasting peace and security across the state.

During the cross-over service, the Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, congratulated worshippers on crossing into the new year. He urged them not to allow prevailing circumstances dictate their pace in 2026 but to remain guided by divine instruction.

Bishop Oyedepo encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith, emphasizing that obedience to divine guidance would lead to victory over challenges and usher in a better year for the nation. He also called on citizens to enter into a covenant with God in the new year, assuring that such commitment would bring comprehensive blessings, improved security, economic progress, and freedom from adversity.

The report was issued by Dr. Ebojele Akhere Patrick, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State, on Thursday, January 1, 2026.