Truth Live Int'l

Tag: Gov Obaseki

  • Governor Obaseki Commissions Landmark Projects to Enrich Edo’s Cultural and Creative Landscape

    Governor Obaseki Commissions Landmark Projects to Enrich Edo’s Cultural and Creative Landscape

     

    By Felicia Udeji

    In a drive to enhance the state’s cultural and economic landscape, the Governor of Edo State recently embarked on a project commissioning tour across Benin City.

    Speaking on the significance of these projects, the Governor shared, “Since last week, I have embarked on commissioning various landmark projects, each playing a unique role in enriching our society. Today, our focus was on celebrating the creativity of our people, building upon our extensive heritage that spans a broad spectrum of human endeavours.”

    The event that was duly monitored by Truth Live News witnessed the presence of several dignitaries, including former governors Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State and Donald Duke of Cross River State, alongside other prominent stakeholders, who joined the Governor in unveiling and inspecting a series of newly completed projects.

    The tour included the official launch of the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) Institute and Campus, the Edo Film Project Residence (Edonimose), and the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub Post Production Centre. Additionally, the Governor and dignitaries inspected the Radisson Hotel Project, all of which are located within the Benin metropolis.

    The MOWAA Institute, a key component of the new Cultural District planned for the city centre, was particularly highlighted as a landmark in Edo’s cultural and historical preservation efforts. “MOWAA serves as the cornerstone of the Cultural District we’ve envisioned for the city centre, poised to become a major attraction,” the Governor stated, emphasizing the museum’s role in preserving Edo’s rich heritage. “It is a repository where we store, preserve, and conserve our rich cultural heritage, helping us project confidently into the future.”

    The Governor added that Edo’s cultural vibrancy is gaining momentum with these developments. “Edo is the home of culture, and we are now creating spaces that allow all who visit Benin City to experience our rich heritage firsthand,” he remarked.

    The commissioning of these projects marks a significant step in Edo State’s efforts to build a globally recognized cultural and creative hub, reinforcing Benin City’s standing as a center for art, culture, and tourism.

  • Obaseki Vows Sustainable Healthcare Initiatives Beyond Tenure

     

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

    Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has vowed that his administration’s health initiatives will continue beyond his time in office.

    Speaking at the graduation of the third batch of medical personnel trained in essential newborn care, the governor emphasized that these projects are designed to remain impactful long-term, affirming, “The champion of this cause will remain steadfast in supporting this initiative.”

    The ceremony marked the completion of the Betsy Obaseki’s “Make No Pikin Die” initiative, which has trained 132 medical personnel in the Essential Newborn Care Course (ENCC) to tackle neonatal mortality in Edo State.

    Governor Obaseki highlighted that these achievements go beyond governmental efforts, crediting Betsy Obaseki for her dedication.

    “This initiative has been championed not just by the government but by committed individuals. I am confident it will be sustained even after we leave office,” he added.

    Speaking, the governor’s wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, expressed her commitment to meeting neonatal survival goals, stating, “Our target is to reduce neonatal deaths to fewer than four per 1,000 births.

    “We take this seriously and continue to encourage all of you to cascade these trainings. We also have a stringent system for monitoring and evaluating outcomes to ensure that we reach our goal.”

    She called on hospital administrators across Edo to support trained medical personnel in cascading these life-saving techniques throughout healthcare facilities in the region.

    “This year’s 24 graduates join 108 other trainers from previous sessions held in 2022 and earlier in 2024, bringing the total trained under the ENCC initiative to 132.

    “The training, developed by the federal government and implemented by me covers critical interventions such as “Helping Babies Breathe,” “Essential Care for Small Babies,” and “Essential Care for Every Baby.”

    “These modules aim to reduce neonatal mortality by equipping healthcare providers to ensure newborns receive vital care within their first minutes of life.

    Speaking also, Prof. Kenechukwu Iloh, the Course Director, highlighted the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s high neonatal mortality rate. “We lose 41 babies per 1,000 births in this country, while some nations boast rates as low as three or four per 1,000,” he stated.

    He praised Edo State’s achievements, noting, “Edo has one of the best records in Nigeria, with seven deaths per 1,000 births.”

    Also, the graduates expressed enthusiasm about their mission to improve newborn survival rates.

    Dr. Peace, one of the newly trained healthcare providers, shared, “This is truly life-changing. In Edo State, no child should have to die needlessly.”

    This latest batch of trainers will further strengthen Edo’s healthcare system, as the state works toward achieving the global target of reducing neonatal mortality to single digits by 2030.

  • Edo Guber: Elders Forum Opposes Akpata’s Bid, Calls for Equity, Power Shift in Edo State

    As the Edo State Governorship Election approaches, concerns have been raised about Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata, who is said to be a cousin of the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki. Some argue that it would be unjust for Akpata to replace Obaseki after his eight years in office.

    In a recent statement, the Edo Elders Forum pointed out that Akpata’s close familial ties to Governor Obaseki raise questions of fairness.

    The group stated that Akpata’s desire to succeed Obaseki contradicts the widespread call for a shift in power to the Edo Central Senatorial District. Both Akpata and Obaseki are from the Oredo Local Government Area in Edo South, a region that has already governed the state for 16 years, starting from the Lucky Igbinedion administration in 1999. The Elders Forum stressed the need for a power shift to other regions of the state.

    “As elders and men of good conscience, we have a moral responsibility to promote equity and justice to ensure peaceful coexistence in Edo State. A vote for Akpata, in our view, goes against fairness and good conscience,” the group declared.

    They emphasized that while competence is important, it must be balanced with fairness and justice when deciding the next governor of Edo State. The group reiterated their belief that power should shift to the Esan people in Edo Central so that they too can feel represented, stating, “Edo belongs to all of us.”

    Another anonymous source claimed that Akpata, aware of his limited chances in the election, is being heavily funded to create distractions in Benin City. There are further accusations that Akpata is being backed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to divide votes in Edo South, thus giving APC a better chance at victory. Allegedly, his campaign funds are linked to the Office of the Chief of Staff to President Tinubu, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.

    The group urged Edo residents to stay vigilant and not be misled by political games as the election draws near.

  • Esan Must Show Gratitude To Godwin Obaseki – By Daniel Osa-Ogbegie

    When Godwin Obaseki was going through his bitter travails in the hands of Oshiomhole in 2020, it was to Esan people he turned for succour. He first sought refuge in the PDP, which is the spiritual and traditional political party of the Esan people. Thereafter, he had a meeting with Esan people and promised them that if they supported and voted him for a second term, he would support an Esan to succeed him as Governor. Godwin Obaseki not only fulfilled this promise, he ensured the person was a pristine candidate who was prepared and ready to be Governor of Edo state.

     

    Obaseki’s choice of an Esan in the person of Asuerinme Ighodalo one hundred percent determined the U-turn made by the APC in handing their ticket to an Esan. Before then, their leading aspirants were Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Denis Idahosa, both from Edo south. Today, the two major Parties in Nigeria have presented two Esans as their candidates for this election, but it could have very much not be so if the leader of Edo APC, Adams Oshiomhole, had his way.

     

    Adams Oshiomhole went on a tangent on National TV in a bizarre show of animosity and bitterness, to disparage Esan and Esan people, that they could not win Governorship election in Edo state and therefore did not deserve the ticket of a major political party. That they were a minority.

     

    In the final analysis, It would be sad, showing a lack of integrity, lack of nobility and foresight, putting it mildly, for Esan to choose to support and validate Adams Oshiomhole, a man who has always shown open hatred for them and fought naked to stop the governorship from going to Esan, over Godwin Obaseki, a man who fought for an Esan to ermerge candidate of his Party, forcing the APC to stop Oshiomhole’s shenanigans and support an Esan for their ticket as well.

    CULLED FROM THE ESSAY “A FERVENT CALL TO THE ESAN SPIRIT OF YORE TO ARISE AND SHINE.” By Daniel A. Noah Osa-Ogbegie, Esq., PNM FCAI

  • Edo Govt Expands Africa’s Largest Oil Palm Development with 50,000 Hectares in Phase Two

    By Felicia Udeji

    Okogbo, Edo State– Building on the success of its initial oil palm program, Edo State has launched the second phase of the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP), marking a significant milestone in the state’s agricultural development.

    Governor Godwin Obaseki officially kicked off the new phase, which will see 50,000 hectares of land developed for oil palm cultivation in Okogbo Community, Orhionmwon Local Government Area.

    Governor Obaseki, accompanied by over 20 new investors, highlighted the significance of the program’s expansion. “We are launching ESOPP Phase 2 with a new set of investors to develop almost 50,000 hectares of land for oil palm,” the governor stated. The first phase of ESOPP, covering 70,000 hectares, has already established Edo State as a leader in oil palm development in Africa.

    The decision to expand the program was rooted in the findings of a 2017 forest audit, which revealed significant deforestation and degradation of Edo’s forest reserves. The state government identified areas unsuitable for reforestation and allocated them for oil palm cultivation, a crop known for its high yield and environmental benefits.

    The Edo State government’s role in the ESOPP program is to reduce risks for investors by addressing land allocation, securing community consent, and overcoming infrastructural challenges. This strategy has been critical in attracting investors and ensuring the program’s success.

    Dr. Tunde Faturoti, Project Director of Saro Oil Palm, praised the governor for fostering a supportive environment for investment. “We are turning waste into wealth by planting high-yielding oil palm to drive economic growth and combat environmental degradation,” Faturoti noted.

    The ESOPP program not only promises to boost oil palm production but also supports food security by allowing mixed-crop farming on the land before the oil palm trees reach maturity.

  • Gov. Obaseki Commissions, Hands Over Forward Operating Base in Ehor to Army

     

    The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Thursday, commissioned and handed over the Forward Operating Base, in Ehor, Uhunmwode Local Government Area (LGA) of the State to the Military, as part of efforts to beef up security across the State.

    Obaseki at the commissioning called on the Nigerian Army to help mop up illegal firearms that some armed gangs and groups in the State have stockpiled for election purposes in the State.

    The governor, who thanked the military for its role in strengthening the security architecture in the State and contributions to the peace enjoyed in the State, appealed for an additional Forward Operating Base in Akoko-Edo, Edo North Senatorial District of the State.

    Obaseki said, “We want to call on the Military not to relent in providing security for the State, particularly in the next one month when we would be having an election in Edo State. We are very anxious about the accumulation of arms in some communities and fortunately for us, we have intelligence and will like you to assist us in disarming a lot of groups and gangs that pose a threat to the next election.

    “The Army has been magnanimous to the State as the moment we experimented with the forward operating base in Ehor, we went back to request support to build another Forward Operating Base in Sobe between Ondo and Edo State where we were being ravaged by kidnappers and bandits. Again, the Chief was magnanimous enough to approve it as another base is being built as we speak in Sobe. These two incidents have reduced the issue of kidnapping and banditry in the southern and central parts of the State.

    “We are using this opportunity of commissioning and handing over to appeal for one more base in Edo North between Ondo and Edo State, precisely at Akoko-Edo as we have a lot of kidnapping and banditry going on along that axis. The base is to serve Edo, Ondo and Kogi States.

    “We are making applications to you to help us persuade the Nigerian Army to give us a base there. I thank the community for their generosity and cooperation, ensuring this becomes a reality.”

    The governor continued: “The main responsibility of any government is the security of lives and properties of the people being governed. Any government that can’t guarantee safety for its citizens, clearly has no business being in government. That is why as a government, we have prioritized security and have done everything possible in the last eight years to make sure we put in all that is required to make our people safe.

    “This Forward Operating Base (FOB) came up as a result of the very terrible security situation on this axis. About two to three years ago, you could barely ply this Benin-Auchi Road without your heart in your mouth as we recorded about two kidnapping incidents daily.

    “It was at this point we raised alarm and approached the Chief of Army Staff as at that time and he gave approval that the State government to support the Nigerian Army to build a forward operating base in Ehor where men of the Nigerian Army can be located and help provide backup to the security system of Edo State.

    “I am delighted this afternoon to join you here on this occasion of the commissioning and handing over of this forward operating base situated in Ehor in Uhunmwode Local Government Area of Edo State to the Nigerian Army.”

    In his address, Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja thanked the governor for his continuous support and collaboration with the Nigerian Army.

    The Chief of Army Staff represented by the General Officer Commanding 2 Division Nigeria Army, Major Gen Obinna Onubogu, said the forward base was built to stop kidnapping and armed robbery on the Benin-Auchi Road to enable swift response.

    The Army chief stated, “This FOB serves to support other security agencies in the State to ensure safety and peaceful co-existence. We thank the people of the community for their collaboration and support in ensuring the success of the project. The base has drastically reduced the incidences that have been occurring on the Benin-Auchi-Ehor axis. I assure you of the continuous support of the Nigerian Army for the people to continue to enjoy peace, security, and unity in the State.”

  • Edo Govt Partners BEDC, To Metre 500,000 Houses 

     

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

    The Edo State Government in collaboration with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), Plc is set to metre about 500,000 houses in the state starting from next week.

    This was revealed by the Commissioner for Mining, Energy, Oil and Gas, Hon Enaholo Ojiefo shortly after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the management of BEDC in his office.

    Speaking after the signing ceremony, the commissioner said that the project will cover the three senatorial districts and every houses is expected to be installed with the government subsidized metre starting from on the 13th of this month.

    According to the Commissioner, the state government desirous to eliminate the problem of estimated billings, decided to embark on the project while disclosing that the metres are covered by insurance policy and subscribers are expected to get their metres from the very day they make payment and within 10 days.

    Speaking further, the Commissioner said that subscribers are expected to log into the payment portal as from on the 14th and as soon as the payment is made, the subscriber will get his or her metres assuring that this is expected to eliminate the problem of estimated billings in the state.

    The management of BEDC Plc was represented at the signing ceremony by the Chairman of the board of directors, Pastor Kings Akuma and the managing director/ CEO of the electricity body, Mr Deolu Ijose and the launch is billed to take place next week the 13th of this month.

  • Gov. Obaseki Empathizes with Nigerians, Urges Alternative Protest Forms Amid Planned #EndBadGovernance Demonstrations

     

     

    Ismail Abdulazeez Mantu Reporting

    Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has expressed deep sympathy for Nigerians facing severe hardships over the past year, attributed to various policies implemented by the Federal Government.

    In his address ahead of the nationwide #EndBadGovernance protests, Obaseki encouraged organizers to consider alternative forms of protest beyond street marches and processions.

    The Governor reassured citizens that the state government has mobilized security agencies to maintain law and order and to protect legitimate protesters. However, he warned that intelligence reports indicate plans by certain political elements to infiltrate the protests and cause chaos, including the destruction of public infrastructure.

    “Our intelligence reveals that plans have been perfected to infiltrate the planned protest matches to cause wanton destruction of lives and property. Armed thugs and some cult groups have been procured and mobilized to attack and burn public buildings and offices,” Obaseki disclosed.

    He emphasized that these disruptions are intended to settle political scores ahead of the upcoming September 2024 gubernatorial elections. He cited a recent incident on July 18, 2024, where thugs mobilized at Benin airport resulted in the death of a police officer.

    Obaseki acknowledged the valid reasons for the protests, highlighting the impact of Federal Government policies that have led to soaring food prices, high transportation costs, inflation, and financial strain on small business owners. “It has become evident that a lot of the policy measures undertaken were not properly thought through, leading to adverse consequences that have now put our people in dire straits,” he noted.

    Reflecting on state efforts to alleviate the suffering, Obaseki mentioned several initiatives, including raising the minimum wage to N70,000, introducing a free transport scheme, extending free Wi-Fi services, and implementing a statewide feeding program for the vulnerable. Despite these measures, he acknowledged that many still suffer under the prevailing economic conditions.

    The Governor called on the public to remain vigilant and not allow miscreants to hijack the protests. He assured that security agencies are on high alert to protect genuine protesters and warned against any attempts to use the protests as a pretext for violence and destruction.

    “I have mobilized security agencies in the State to be on high alert and ensure that law and order is maintained and provide protection for genuine protesters who must follow the law and ensure that they carry out their protest in a peaceful and orderly manner,” Obaseki stated.

    He urged law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without fear, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property while working towards the growth and progress of Edo State.

  • Urhonigbe Residents Pledge Support for PDP’s Asue Ighodalo Ahead of Election

    Ahead of the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, the people of Urhonigbe in Orhionmwon Local Government Council have pledged their support for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo.

    The communities of Urhonigbe Ward 7 (Urhonigbe North) and Ward 8 (Urhonigbe South) based their decision on the positive achievements of Governor Godwin Obaseki and the exceptional qualities of the PDP candidate in terms of competence, capacity, and character.

    The announcement was made on Monday when the PDP’s Ward to Ward Campaign Train for Asue/Ogie reached Urhonigbe. At the campaign ground held at the Urhonigbe Main Market Square, Mr. Peter Enoghiahu from Urhonigbe North praised Governor Obaseki for establishing two significant industries in the area—the Rubber Estate and the Ethanol Plant—which have the potential to employ 15,000 people. He also highlighted Dr. Asue Ighodalo’s extensive experience and global exposure as key factors in their support.

    Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, Director-General of the Campaign Council, commended the people for their enthusiastic welcome and assured them that Urhonigbe is firmly in support of the PDP. He thanked them for choosing progress and development over stagnation.

    Dr. Asue Ighodalo, addressing the crowd, promised the establishment of more industries in Urhonigbe.

    He urged the residents not to be misled by false promises from other parties and assured them that his administration, along with his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, Esq., would bring about positive change. “We will not fail you. We will make you proud,” Ighodalo assured the cheering supporters.

  • Ekiosa Market On Completion Will Run On 24/7 Electricity, Internet Connectivity, PHC, Other Facilities – Gov Obaseki

    Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting

    The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the Ekiosa Market in Oredo Local Government Area of the State, on completion, will have 24/7 electricity supply, a Primary Healthcare Centre, and other modern facilities, which to a large extent, will promote their social-economic activities.

    The governor said this while addressing traders during the groundbreaking ceremony to commence construction work at the site.

    He said, “December four years ago, our women were put in pain as the market was set on fire because of politics. But I am here today as promised to rebuild the market that was burnt down by the Lions and Tigers. I will fulfil all my promises before I leave office. By the grace of God, the new governor will commission the market in nine months from now.

    “They are playing politics with local government autonomy in Abuja, saying the State Government is taking local government funds, knowing fully well that the State is richer than local governments. They are doing politics and turning our democracy upside down. The Local Government will collect revenues in this market but the State is building it. The market belongs to the local government.

    “We are here to show that the State is richer than the local government and will support the local government. The local government doesn’t have such resources. That is why we are building it for them.”

    Obaseki continued: “This market we are building is the new way to build markets from now into the future. Market women need a good place to stay and sell their products, goods and services because they stay longer in the market. The market needs to be comfortable for them. Our design is to show that our administration wants to start to build modern markets in Edo State.

    “The design doesn’t carry a Primary Healthcare Centre so I instructed them to add it. This will enable sick market women to treat themselves if they are sick in the market. There will be doctors in the market. We already have free Wi-Fi working in the market (EdoNet) to improve the network for PoS operators.

    “We have already connected 2nd East Circular Road to Ossiomo Power supply. We will light up the market. You will have 24/7 electricity here. We will also provide more water sources in the market.”

    Obaseki expressed appreciation to the market women for supporting his administration since assuming office.

    He noted, “We don’t have any abandoned projects in Edo State as all the projects we have started will be finished before leaving office. Continue to pray for our government and the country.

    “Some people came a few days ago to cause confusion in the market as they want to impose a leader for us in our market. We warn them to stop that politics. We do whatever we want in Edo State. We know what we want in Edo as an illiterate cannot lead us in Edo State.

    “We are educated people. They say they have federal might. We are waiting for them to kill us all before they capture the State. An illiterate cannot rule us as governor. Don’t be afraid as the people will choose their leader and the governor they want. We have done it before and will do it again.”

    The Executive Chairman of Oredo Local Government Council, Dr. Tom Obaseki thanked the governor for making the commencement of reconstruction of the market a reality, adding that on completion the market will have 1,700 open stalls, 85 lock-up stalls, a loading bay, livestock lots, utility and service block, toilets, lush green area and car park.

    He said traders who had stores in the market before the fire incident four years ago should go to the Council Secretariat for verification and validation.

    The Chairperson, Edo State Market Association, Madam Blacky Ogiamien, thanked the governor for fulfilling his promise and assured him that the market women will support whoever he supports for the September 21 governorship election.

WhatsApp us

Social Chat is free, download and try it now here!

Exit mobile version