Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin, Edo State
In a landmark statement at the 2023 Alaghodaro Investment Summit, Governor Godwin Obaseki affirmed the transformative journey of Edo State over the past seven years. His administration, focusing on six pivotal pillars, including institutional reforms, economic revolution, and social welfare, has strategically propelled the state towards sustainable and accelerated growth.
The summit, a beacon of shared vision and prosperity, drew praise from prominent figures, including former governors Adams Oshiomhole, John Odigie-Oyegun, and Lucky Igbinedion. Their commendations underscored Obaseki’s commendable strides across diverse sectors, reinforcing Edo’s status as Africa’s most competitive sub-national entity.
Key achievements highlighted by Governor Obaseki include the implementation of a Computerized ERP System (E-Gov) in the civil service, establishment of the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, and the delivery of modern infrastructure to 76 MDAs. Additionally, monthly IGR collections have consistently risen since 2016, reflecting deliberate investments to bolster the local economy.
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Alaghodaro Economic Summit Ltd/Gte, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, praised the administration’s efforts, revealing that Edo State’s economy surged by over 140 percent from $10.6 billion to $25.8 billion—an impressive feat against the national growth rate of 4 percent over the same period.
Ighodalo emphasized Edo’s potential to produce 70 percent of Nigeria’s imported goods, positioning the state as a key player in reducing foreign exchange burdens. He expressed confidence that the new investments, totaling $4 billion from both local and joint partnerships, demonstrate the state’s capacity and determination to achieve further progress.
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest person and keynote speaker at the summit, acknowledged Edo State’s comparative advantage in agriculture, agro-processing, and tourism. He lauded Governor Obaseki for fostering a business-friendly environment that attracted investors, transforming Edo into an investment destination. Dangote highlighted the state’s secure environment and infrastructure development as key factors driving economic growth.
In a photo capturing the essence of the summit, former governors Oshiomhole, Igbinedion, and Odigie-Oyegun joined Governor Obaseki, symbolizing a united front in acknowledging the state’s achievements.
As Edo State continues on its trajectory of progress, leveraging its comparative advantage, the Alaghodaro Summit stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts shaping the state’s multi-sectoral development and growth.