The start of a new year is a time for reflection and renewed determination. It is an opportunity to set fresh goals, leave behind past challenges, and chart a course for personal and collective growth. For leaders, it represents a clean slate to implement transformative policies that uplift the lives of their people.
Governor Monday Okpebholo captures this spirit of renewal in his New Year message, “2025: Okpebholo Poised to Elevate Good Governance in Edo.” His message underscores the immense opportunities that lie ahead and the administration’s resolve to confront challenges with bold vision and pragmatic action.
Throughout history, transformative leaders have emerged during moments of crisis, steering their nations toward recovery and progress. Franklin D. Roosevelt, for instance, assumed office during the Great Depression, a time when the U.S. economy was in shambles. His New Deal initiatives, such as the Civilian Conservation Corps and Public Works Administration, created millions of jobs and revitalized the nation’s infrastructure. Programs like Social Security provided safety nets for the vulnerable, laying the foundation for modern welfare systems.
Similarly, Nelson Mandela’s leadership during apartheid in South Africa epitomized resilience and hope. Despite enduring decades of imprisonment, Mandela led his nation toward reconciliation, dismantling institutionalized racial segregation and fostering unity. His emphasis on collaboration and justice reshaped South Africa’s destiny.
These examples remind us that bold, decisive leadership can turn adversity into opportunity. In Edo State, Governor Okpebholo demonstrates similar courage and determination as he tackles the challenges facing the State.
Governor Okpebholo assumed office at a critical juncture when insecurity plagued Edo State. Under his predecessor, the State witnessed a disturbing rise in cult-related violence, with marauding groups claiming innocent lives in their deadly clashes. Communities were also gripped by fear due to a spate of thefts and robberies.
Recognizing the urgent need to restore peace, the Governor mobilized security agencies with precision and speed. Through strategic planning and resource allocation, the administration dismantled notorious cult networks and curbed the spate of robberies. Today, residents of Edo State enjoy a safer environment, paving the way for economic activities to thrive and fostering confidence among investors.
Understanding the transformative power of infrastructure, Governor Okpebholo has prioritized key projects aimed at enhancing mobility and improving living standards. Ongoing construction of roads, including the Ramat Park Flyover, Upper Mission Road Extension, and Uteh Palace Road, demonstrates the administration’s commitment to bridging development gaps. Collaboration with the federal government to rehabilitate the Benin-Auchi Expressway further underscores this proactive approach. These projects are more than mere construction efforts—they are investments in the State’s economic future, reducing travel times, boosting trade, and improving access to vital services.
Education remains central to Governor Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State. His approval of a N500 million monthly subvention for Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, is a testament to his commitment to revitalizing higher education. By reconstituting the institution’s governing council, the administration has set the stage for sustainable reforms that will enhance academic excellence.
Additionally, the ongoing renovation of public schools reflects the administration’s focus on foundational education. These efforts ensure that young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to compete in an increasingly globalized world.
As the year unfolds, Governor Okpebholo’s agenda aligns with the Nigerian Constitution’s mandate to prioritize the welfare and security of citizens. His administration is focused on expanding opportunities for entrepreneurship, agriculture, and industrial growth to create jobs and boost livelihoods. Strengthening health infrastructure and ensuring affordable, accessible medical services across the State are also high on the agenda.
Programs to equip young people with vocational and entrepreneurial skills will continue to empower Edo youth, while ongoing and new infrastructure projects will benefit urban and rural communities alike. Upholding accountability and transparency remain a cornerstone of the administration’s governance approach, fostering trust and efficient resource management.
As Governor Okpebholo emphasized in his New Year message, the success of his administration depends on the collective effort of Edo people. Just as Roosevelt relied on the resilience of the American people and Mandela inspired South Africans to unite, so must Edo citizens actively support the Government’s agenda while holding it accountable.
With unity, resilience, and visionary leadership, Edo State stands poised to achieve unprecedented heights of prosperity in 2025. Governor Okpebholo’s bold initiatives in security, infrastructure, and education have laid a solid foundation for transformation. It is now imperative for every Edo citizen to contribute to this vision, ensuring that the State becomes a model of good governance and sustainable development in Nigeria.
This year holds immense promise for Edo State. Together, under Governor Okpebholo’s dynamic leadership, the opportunities for growth and progress are boundless. Let us seize them.
Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor
01 January 2025.
