Okpebholo Assures Edo Residents of Safety, Better Living Conditions

Kingsley Ohens reporting

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured residents of his administration’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property while improving living conditions across the state.

The Governor gave the assurance in his Independence Day message to Edo people as Nigeria marks its 66th anniversary of independence, urging citizens to remain committed to peace, unity and the collective progress of the state and nation.

According to the Governor, security remains the first responsibility of government, stressing that farming, trade, investment and other economic activities can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.

“We have worked hard to make Edo safer. We are rebuilding our roads, upgrading our schools and hospitals, and creating opportunities for our teeming youths,” Governor Okpebholo said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s determination to collaborate with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to sustain the security gains recorded across the state, noting that community leaders remain important partners because of their closeness to the people and knowledge of the local terrain.

“Edo State is not a safe place for criminals,” the Governor warned, while assuring law-abiding residents of his administration’s continued protection.

Beyond security, Governor Okpebholo said his administration was advancing development in healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and education under the SHINE Agenda.

He highlighted the reopening of hospitals that had remained closed for several years, some for nearly two decades, as well as the enrolment of more than 600,000 residents in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme (EDOHIC).

The Governor also noted that salaries were being paid regularly and that Edo remained among the states implementing the ₦75,000 minimum wage.

While acknowledging that there was still much to be done, Governor Okpebholo described the progress recorded so far as a foundation for further development rather than a finished job.

“Government exists to serve you, and I will keep listening, even when the feedback is uncomfortable,” he said, appreciating Edo residents for their patience and support.

He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for what he described as efforts to reposition Nigeria for greatness, noting that the Renewed Hope Agenda remained an important step towards national economic revival, stability and growth.

Governor Okpebholo urged Edo residents to use the 66th Independence anniversary to renew their commitment to peace, unity and responsible citizenship, stressing that true patriotism is reflected in how citizens treat one another and protect public assets.

The Governor wished the people of Edo State a peaceful Independence Day celebration and prayed for continued progress and prosperity for the state and Nigeria.

The message was conveyed in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.