Otunba Oladele Bankole-Balogun Hails Senator Monday Okpebholo as Governor of the Year 2025 in Education

Kingsley Ohens reporting For Urbanscoopnews

In a resounding affirmation of visionary leadership and purposeful governance, Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, has been honoured as Governor of the Year 2025 in Education — a recognition that underscores his bold reforms and unwavering commitment to repositioning the State’s educational landscape.

The commendation was conveyed in a powerful message of excellence, vision and transformation by Otunba (Hon.) Oladele Bankole-Balogun Esq., ACTI, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), who described the award as a natural consequence of courageous leadership and disciplined execution.

According to the EIRS Chairman, Governor Okpebholo’s first year in office has not merely sustained progress but redefined the educational trajectory of Edo State. Central to this transformation is the EduRescue Initiative, which has successfully returned thousands of out-of-school children to classrooms through the provision of free books and essential learning materials — a decisive intervention that has expanded access and restored hope to families across the State.

Teacher welfare and professional development have also taken centre stage under the Governor’s administration. A total of 8,476 teachers were promoted, reinforcing a culture that rewards diligence and dedication. In addition, 100 specialised technical teachers were recruited to strengthen technical and vocational education, while continuous digital empowerment and structured training programmes have positioned educators to thrive in a rapidly evolving global environment.

Further consolidating the State’s vocational framework, Governor Okpebholo revitalised existing technical colleges and established a new technical college in Ovia, ensuring that graduates leave school equipped not only with certificates but with practical, employable skills aligned with modern industry demands.

The administration’s firm stance on quality assurance has equally restored credibility to the education system. The closure of unregulated lecture centres and mushroom schools, coupled with strategic collaboration with examination bodies to curb malpractice, has reinforced integrity and standards across the sector.

Beyond structural reforms, the Governor’s compassion-driven policies have stood out. His approval of a one-billion-naira bursary scheme for indigent students and the seamless, historic handover of schools to missionary owners reflect both foresight and a deep commitment to inclusive education.

From the vantage point of close collaboration, the EIRS Chairman affirmed that the award is not incidental but the result of deliberate action anchored on a clear vision for a “New Edo.” With political will and strategic execution, the Governor has demonstrated that transformative governance is achievable and sustainable.

As Edo State continues on its upward trajectory, stakeholders across sectors have reaffirmed their unwavering support for the administration’s mission to build a stronger, more educated and economically vibrant State.