Okpebholo Showcases Edo’s Development in London, Credits Tinubu’s Reforms

Kingsley Ohens reporting 

Governor Monday Okpebholo has attributed the remarkable progress being recorded in Edo State to the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the policies have significantly improved the financial capacity of state governments to execute impactful development projects and improve the welfare of citizens.

Speaking during a diaspora engagement held in London with the theme “Shine Beyond Borders,” Governor Okpebholo presented a comprehensive account of his administration’s achievements, showcasing strides in infrastructure, security, healthcare, education and governance while encouraging Edo indigenes abroad to actively participate in the state’s development through investment, innovation and knowledge transfer.

The governor explained that the removal of fuel subsidies and other economic reforms initiated by President Tinubu have strengthened the finances of sub-national governments, ending an era when many states depended on federal bailouts to meet basic obligations.

According to him, the improved fiscal environment has enabled Edo State to embark on transformational projects that are already changing the state’s development landscape. He cited landmark initiatives including the Ramat Park Flyover in Benin City, the reconstruction of the Ekpoma–Auchi section of the Benin–Okene Highway with concrete pavement, the extension of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through Edo State, and major security interventions such as the establishment of an Army Forward Operational Base, the siting of MOPOL 82 Squadron, the recruitment of 500 Forest Guards and the approval of a new Army Division for the state.

Governor Okpebholo said these achievements reflect the practical implementation of his administration’s SHINE Agenda, which continues to drive measurable progress across critical sectors while positioning Edo as an increasingly attractive destination for investment and economic growth.

Addressing the gathering in a conversational atmosphere rather than through a formal speech, the governor described the event as a reunion of one family bound together by a common heritage despite geographical distance.

He acknowledged that while some members of the diaspora left Edo as children, others had never visited their ancestral communities, yet remained deeply connected to their roots through the stories and values passed on by their parents.

Inviting them to reconnect with their homeland, Governor Okpebholo urged them to return not merely as visitors but as stakeholders committed to the state’s future, encouraging professionals, entrepreneurs and investors to contribute their expertise, technology, global networks and investments toward accelerating Edo’s development.

The governor also appealed to Edo people in the diaspora to assess his administration based on its tangible accomplishments rather than narratives circulating on social media, urging them to become ambassadors of the state by promoting its strengths, opportunities and investment potential.

As part of the engagement, Governor Okpebholo presented branded face caps and other souvenirs bearing the image of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to members of the Edo diaspora, reaffirming the state’s support for the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda while also canvassing support towards delivering 2.5 million votes for the President.

The interactive session afforded participants the opportunity to engage directly with the governor, exchange ideas on issues affecting Edo State and explore practical partnerships capable of advancing sustainable development through investment, innovation and collaboration.

The London engagement forms part of the Edo State Government’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with Edo communities across the globe and harness the expertise, resources and networks of the diaspora in driving the state’s economic transformation.

Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, who disclosed the outcome of the engagement, said the initiative underscores Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to building enduring partnerships with Edo indigenes worldwide while positioning the state as a preferred destination for investment, growth and sustainable development.