Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscopnews
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State is set to receive the prestigious New Telegraph Governor of the Year (Education) Award this Friday, a recognition that underscores his administration’s sweeping reforms and measurable progress in the education sector and beyond. The honor reflects a broader governance approach defined by decisive leadership, strategic investment, and a commitment to sustainable development across key sectors of the state’s economy.
Since assuming office, Governor Okpebholo has pursued policies aimed at accelerating institutional reform and restoring public confidence in governance. His administration’s impact has been particularly notable in education, where deliberate interventions have sought to reverse years of infrastructural decay and systemic challenges within public schools.
A cornerstone of these efforts is the recruitment of 5,000 teachers to strengthen the quality of instruction across primary and secondary schools. In addition, 63 public schools have undergone significant renovation to create safer and more conducive learning environments for students. At the tertiary level, Ambrose Alli University has received renewed attention, with its monthly subvention increased from N41 million to N500 million—an intervention widely regarded as critical to stabilizing academic activities, improving staff welfare, and restoring institutional standards.
Beyond education, the administration has implemented reforms across other strategic sectors, reinforcing the broader narrative of accelerated development. In security, the government has amended anti-cultism and anti-kidnapping laws to strengthen enforcement and deterrence. The recruitment of 2,500 personnel into the Edo State Security Corps, alongside the procurement of 75 Toyota Hilux vehicles and 350 motorbikes, has enhanced rapid response capacity. These measures have contributed to a marked reduction in cult-related violence and kidnapping incidents, fostering a safer environment for residents and businesses.
Healthcare delivery has also witnessed significant advancement. The establishment of the first Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) Centre in the South-South region represents a major milestone in specialized maternal healthcare, expanding access to critical treatment for women. The introduction of free malaria testing and treatment across government hospitals for a two-year period further demonstrates the administration’s commitment to easing the healthcare burden on citizens. Simultaneously, ongoing upgrades of health facilities across the state aim to ensure improved service delivery and better patient outcomes.
Infrastructure development remains another focal point. The construction of the Ramat Park flyover in Benin City is designed to address traffic congestion and modernize urban mobility. Additionally, 28 new road projects covering more than 255 kilometres have been awarded, reflecting an ambitious drive to enhance connectivity, facilitate commerce, and stimulate economic growth across urban and rural communities.
In agriculture, the government has significantly expanded budgetary allocation to the sector, increasing funding from N4.5 billion to over N70 billion. With more than 400 hectares already cultivated and harvesting underway, the initiative is positioned to strengthen food security, generate employment, and reduce dependence on food imports. The renewed emphasis on agriculture aligns with efforts to diversify the state’s economy and promote sustainable livelihoods.
As Governor Okpebholo prepares to receive the New Telegraph Governor of the Year Award for Education, the recognition stands as both an endorsement of his administration’s educational reforms and an acknowledgment of its broader developmental strides. For many observers, the award signals a period of renewed momentum in Edo State—one characterized by strategic governance, institutional revitalization, and a clear commitment to inclusive progress.
Discover more from Urbanscoopnews
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
