Kingsley Ohens reporting
The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate the development of water infrastructure, enhance security around critical assets, and deliver measurable improvements in the lives of Edo residents.
The governor made this known on Tuesday at Government House, Benin City, while receiving the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who led a delegation from the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) on a courtesy visit.
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo emphasized that strategic federal-state partnerships remain indispensable to achieving sustainable development, particularly within the water resources sector. He disclosed that he had recently undertaken an inspection of key facilities under the authority, expressing concern over incidents of vandalism and the consequent loss of public investment.
“A significant amount of public resources is being undermined through acts of vandalism. This is unacceptable. Investments of this magnitude must be protected, and we are taking decisive steps to strengthen security in vulnerable areas,” the governor stated.
He further revealed plans to establish a dedicated security presence in high-risk locations, including Obayantor, which he described as particularly volatile. According to him, the deployment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) would play a critical role in safeguarding both infrastructure and local communities.
On project financing, Governor Okpebholo affirmed the state government’s readiness to meet its counterpart funding obligations for ongoing federal water initiatives, notably the Jattu Dam project in Etsako West Local Government Area. He stressed that beyond funding commitments, timely execution remains essential to addressing water supply challenges, especially in Edo North.
“We are committed to fulfilling the 25 percent counterpart funding requirement. However, timely delivery is equally important. Access to clean water is a fundamental need, and this project must be completed as scheduled,” he said.
The governor also aligned the state’s developmental priorities with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Edo State is actively contributing to national goals through ongoing infrastructure renewal and targeted investments.
Earlier, Minister Utsev commended the Edo State Government for its cooperation and progress in infrastructure development, particularly road rehabilitation efforts that improve access to federal facilities.
He, however, highlighted persistent operational challenges confronting BORBDA, including security threats, vandalism, and encroachment on project sites. The minister specifically pointed to illegal activities around the Obayantor axis and called for reinforced protection measures.
Utsev also urged the state government to support efforts to safeguard federal water infrastructure and reclaim encroached lands in key operational areas such as Obayantor and Illushi.
Providing an update on infrastructure development, the minister noted that the Jattu Dam project has recorded substantial progress under the joint implementation framework. He, however, emphasized the importance of Edo State fulfilling its counterpart funding obligations to sustain momentum and ensure timely completion.
Additionally, he called for urgent intervention at the Auchi Integrated Farm, where erosion poses a significant threat to existing facilities. He further acknowledged the governor’s efforts in road rehabilitation, including ongoing work along the Benin-Sapele corridor.
The minister expressed confidence that enhanced collaboration between Edo State and the Federal Government would significantly improve water supply systems, boost agricultural productivity, and drive rural development across the state.
The visit underscores a deepening synergy between both levels of government in addressing critical infrastructure needs and advancing sustainable development in Edo State.
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