The Edo State Government has officially regained full control of the Nigerian Observer printing press, which was previously ceded to consultants under the last administration.
The administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki had shut down the state-owned newspaper, The Observer, on June 30, 2022, transferred its management to contractors, consultants, and political associates while redeployed its staff to the Ministry of Information and Communication.
In a move to correct past decisions, Governor Monday Okpebholo has directed the reinstatement of the newspaper’s staff and has now reclaimed the printing press from the private consultants. The facility was handed over to The Observer’s management team, led by General Manager, Sylvester Oboh.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu; the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua; and Directors from the Ministry of Information and Communication, among other top government officials.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Ohonbamu emphasized that the transition occurred peacefully and without conflict. He commended Fountain Brook Publishing Limited, led by Chike Madueke, for honoring the agreement and returning the printing press to the government.
“When I assumed office, I made it clear that the primary mandate of The Observer is to print and disseminate news, as envisioned by its founding fathers. This newspaper plays a crucial role in keeping the people informed, and we are excited to restore its operations,” Ohonbamu stated.
Mr. Chike Madueke, Chief Executive Officer of Fountain Brook Publishing Limited, affirmed that handing over the printing press was the right decision since it belong to the Edo State Government.
“The press is divided into three sections: one for printing flex banners, another for calendars and books, and the third for newspapers. The quality of printing is high, and we are now formally transferring the documents and keys back to the government,” he said.
Acting General Manager of The Nigerian Observer, Sylvester Oboh, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for reclaiming the printing press, which he described as essential to the newspaper’s operations.
“Since November 2024, The Observer has faced many challenges, especially the absence of a functional printing press. Established by an Act of Parliament in 1968, The Observer is not just a media house but a printing and publishing corporation. Without access to our printing facility, our ability to serve the public was hindered. We appealed to Governor Okpebholo, and he has responded by ensuring our press is returned,” Oboh stated.
The government’s move is expected to revitalize The Observer and enhance its role in delivering credible information to the people of Edo State.
