By Our Senior Correspondent
Truth Live News International
October 14, 2025
The government of Senator Monday Okpebholo has taken another decisive step in its mission to reposition Edo State on the path of purposeful leadership and administrative excellence, following the formal allocation of portfolios to newly appointed commissioners. The announcement underscores the governor’s determination to combine experience, professionalism, and strategic vision in delivering effective governance.
At the centre of the new appointments is veteran media guru and seasoned communication strategist, Prince Kassim Afegbua, who has been assigned the Information and Strategy portfolio. The appointment has been greeted with widespread commendation as a thoughtful and deliberate decision aimed at strengthening the state’s information machinery and restoring public trust in governance.
Afegbua is not new to the role. He previously served as Government Spokesman in the State under a past administration, leaving behind an impressive record of service characterised by effective communication, transparency, and public engagement. Beyond the state level, he has served as spokesperson to the former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida. He has earned national recognition for his bold and articulate approach to public communication. His reappointment is widely seen as a signal that Governor Okpebholo values experience, credibility, and intellectual depth in shaping public perception and policy communication.
Analysts have described Afegbua’s return to the ministry as both strategic and reassuring. His wealth of experience in information management, political communication, and strategic messaging is expected to help reposition Edo State’s information apparatus in line with the government’s reformist vision. Observers also believe that Afegbua’s reputation for truthfulness, balance, and professionalism will enhance the government’s credibility before both the media and the citizenry.
Also announced in the new cabinet is Dr Felix Ehiguese Akhabue, who takes charge of the Ministry of Works, one of the most vital sectors of the state’s development agenda. A technocrat and respected administrator, Akhabue, a former LGA Chairman, is expected to drive the infrastructural renewal of Edo State with focus, transparency, and efficiency. His appointment reflects the governor’s commitment to entrusting key portfolios to individuals with proven competence and a results-oriented approach.
Similarly, Rt. Honourable Festus Ebea Odiase has been appointed Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, a strategic role in a period when internal security, community safety, and public order have become pressing priorities. Ebea’s appointment is viewed as part of Governor Okpebholo’s comprehensive strategy to strengthen collaboration among security agencies, enhance intelligence coordination, and promote peace across all local government areas.
Political commentators and civic groups have lauded the governor for his choices, describing them as reflective of a leader who understands the delicate balance between political inclusiveness and professional competence. They noted that the new cabinet demonstrates the seriousness of the Okpebholo administration to transform Edo into a model of effective governance and people-centred leadership.
Governor Okpebholo’s style has continued to draw praise across party lines. His insistence on merit, accountability, and professionalism has distinguished his government from previous dispensations. By surrounding himself with capable technocrats and respected public servants, he has reaffirmed his vision of an Edo State driven by integrity, innovation, and results.
As the new commissioners take up their duties, the atmosphere in Benin City and beyond is one of renewed optimism. Many citizens now believe that under Senator Okpebholo’s leadership, the state is entering a new era of responsible governance, credible communication, and infrastructural renewal.
Indeed, with the calibre of individuals like Afegbua, Akhabue, and Ebea in his cabinet, Governor Okpebholo has demonstrated that leadership is not merely about holding office, but about assembling the right people to move a state forward. Edo State may well be on the verge of its finest chapter in modern governance.
Others in the list below;
MINISTRY COMMISSIONER
1 Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy — PENDING
2 Ministry of Works Hon. (Dr.) Felix Ehiguese Akhabue
3 Ministry of Mining Hon. Andrew Ijegbai
4 Ministry of Information and Strategy Prince Kassim Afegbua
5 Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon. Paul Nosayaba Ohonbamu
6 Ministry of Business, Trade and Investment Omoh Anabor
7 Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Dr Jerry Uwangue, FCISM
8 Ministry of Livestock Development Prof. Omorodion Ignatius Ikponwosa
9 Ministry of Environment and Sustainability
10 Ministry of Health Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole
11 Ministry of Education Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu
12 Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development Dr. Lucky Eseigbe
13 Ministry of Lands and Housing Hon. Yakubu Oshiorenua Musa, JP
14 Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy Ohimai Ehijimetor
15 Ministry of Science and Technology Hon. Etin-Osa Ogbeiwi
16 Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation Dr. Washington Osa Osifo
17 Ministry of Youth Affairs Hon. Charity Amayaenvbo
18 Ministry of Women Affairs Eugenia Abdallah
19 Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Barr. Marie Olabisi Idaomi
20 Ministry of Power Barr. Usenbo Paul Ehigie
21 Ministry of Oil and Gas Resources- (Barr.) Vincent Osas Uwadiae
22 Ministry of Finance Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor
23 Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning Dr. Elizabeth Ebosele
24 Ministry of Transportation Hon. Saturday Uwuilekhue Idehen (JP)
25 Ministry of Justice Prof. Roland Itoya Otaru, SAN
26 Ministry of Labour and Productivity Godwin Afekokhe Eshieshi
27 Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations Hon. (Barr.) Kenneth Okoruwa Ihensekhien
According to the statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Umar Musa Ikhilor, and made available to Truth Live News International, “His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, reiterates his administration’s unwavering commitment to good governance, economic transformation, institutional efficiency, and inclusive development, consistent with both the SHINE and Renewed Hope Agendas”.