Kingsley Ohens reporting
The Edo State Government has received international commendation for its efforts in combating poverty, curbing irregular migration, and reintegrating returning migrants, even as Governor Monday Okpebholo strengthened his administration with the swearing-in of a new commissioner.
During a courtesy visit to the governor, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) applauded Edo State’s proactive policies aimed at addressing the root causes of irregular migration while empowering citizens through economic opportunities.
Leading the IOM delegation, the organization’s Chief of Mission in Nigeria, Ms. Dimanche Sharon, praised the Okpebholo administration for prioritizing youth empowerment, livelihood development, and the reintegration of returning migrants.
According to her, Edo State has demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring that migration becomes a matter of choice rather than necessity.
Sharon explained that within nine months of visiting 13 states across Nigeria, Edo stood out for its unique potential and progressive initiatives. She noted that the administration’s policies aimed at skills development and entrepreneurship have already benefited over 500,000 individuals.
She also highlighted the collaboration between IOM and the Edo State Government which has supported more than 9,000 returning migrants, helping them rebuild their lives and reintegrate productively into society.
Sharon further commended the state government’s broader humanitarian and poverty reduction efforts, pointing to initiatives such as the EdoJob Centre, youth empowerment programmes, and support for fish farming enterprises.
She added that IOM is exploring additional areas of collaboration with the state, particularly in linking digital skills to employment opportunities and entrepreneurship.
Responding, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with international partners like IOM to tackle irregular migration and expand economic opportunities for Edo people.
The governor noted that insecurity, particularly cult-related violence, had historically contributed to migration pressures within the state but said decisive actions by his administration had significantly improved the situation.
He disclosed that Edo recorded over 360 deaths linked to cult-related violence in 2024 but that the situation had drastically improved by 2025, with incidents reduced to nearly zero.
According to him, restoring peace and strengthening security remain critical components of his administration’s efforts to encourage investment, stimulate economic growth, and improve the quality of life for residents.
Okpebholo emphasized that his government is focused on creating a business-friendly environment that will allow enterprises to thrive while ensuring peace and stability across communities.
He also reflected on Edo’s historical significance, describing the state as one of the world’s oldest cities and an important point of contact for early Portuguese and British explorers.
In a related development, the governor swore in Hon. Andrew Momodu as a commissioner in the Edo State Executive Council, charging him to protect the interests of Edo people and contribute meaningfully to the administration’s development agenda.
Okpebholo described Momodu as a hardworking and capable individual, expressing confidence in his ability to help advance the government’s SHINE Agenda aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
He noted that the appointment comes at a crucial time when the administration is consolidating its governance structures to accelerate development across the state.
In his response, Momodu expressed gratitude to God and the governor for the opportunity to serve, describing the appointment as a rare privilege.
He pledged to work diligently with the governor and other members of the executive council to advance policies that will benefit Edo residents and strengthen the administration’s commitment to good governance.
The developments were contained in separate statements issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, who highlighted the administration’s continued engagement with international partners and its determination to deliver meaningful development to Edo people.
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