... visits Gov. Uzodinma in Imo Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has advocated for a healthy competition among State Governors as a panacea for the current developmental challenges facing the country. Governor Okpebholo stated this at the weekend, when he visited his counterpart in Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodinma. During the meeting with the Chairman of Progressives Governors’ Forum, Uzodinma, Okpebholo stressed the need for Governors  to pay working visits to other States to compare notes and see the progress being made. He said the aim is not only to replicate the same but to surpass them in their home States.  Governor Okpebholo stressed that such visits could ignite a healthy competition that would spiral massive development across the country to the benefit of the people. According to Governor Okpebholo, “most times, sitting back in your comfort zone or State, you assume you are doing great. More so, when you are in a State where nothing tangible has been ach...

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, for the restart of the 125,000 barrels per day (bpd) Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company (WRPC). This was contained in a press statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor- Fred Itua  An excited Governor Okpebholo stated that the restoration of the Warri refinery marks a turnaround in the nation’s petroleum sector. Governor Okpebholo hailed President Tinubu for his reform in the sector, which he said has started yielding positive results for the advancement of the economy and called on Nigerians to support him.  “With the Warri, Port Harcourt and Dangote refineries working simultaneously, there is hope that the petroleum sector is taking a new turn. “I want to join other numerous Nigerians to congratulate President Tinubu and the NNPCL under Mele Kyari for successfully reviving the Warri Refinery. “For me, t...

….."When you solve food crisis, you’ve addressed health, education challenges" By Isaac Eranga, Journalists for Peace Network  The governor of Edo state, Senator Monday Okpebholo can go a step further in his bid to making the state a food basket in the South South region, by making it compulsory for every school in the state to own its farm, as this can form part of his ambitious N70 Billion agricultural budget for the year 2025.  This advised was offered by an Oxford and Cambridge University-trained entrepreneurship, leadership and sustainability expert, Mr. John Mayaki while appreciating the importance the state governor placed on agriculture on its 2025 budget.  Mayaki said, “if agriculture is part of our school curriculum, it should be taught not just in theory but with strong emphasis on practical engagement and this comes with far-reaching benefits.  “I have said this on several occasions that you cannot have a Professor of Agric science who does not own a farm...

The Governor of Edo State- Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the renaming of Edo State University, Uzairue, to its initial name, Edo University, Iyamho. This was contained in a press statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government- Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq.  According to the statement, all documentations in respect of the Institution henceforth shall reflect the above change. It could be recalled that the name of the Ivory Tower was changed from Edo University, Iyamho to Edo State University, Uzairue by the immediate past governor- Mr. Godwin Obaseki during his second term of office.

By Isaac Eranga, Journalists for Peace Network  In a bid towards ensuring sustainable development in Edo State in 2025, the Partners for Peace in the Niger Delta (P4P), Edo State chapter, has called on Edo State government and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to invest more on peacebuilding activities. This, according to the foremost peacebuilding organisation in the Niger Delta will help curb the ugly situation of insecurity and fear of engaging in meaningful activities in the State.  This call was made by Edo State Coordinator of P4P,  Engr Eugene Okoeguale while addressing newsmen in Benin city. He said peace is a purveyor of development.  According to Eugene Okoeguale, the State can only achieve sustainable development goals in an environment of peace. He however commended the State governor- Senator Monday Okpebholo for the pragmatic measures taken so far in progressively moving the State forward, especially in curbing insecurity and putting a stop to the ince...

... In 2025, we will do more for Edo people- Gov. Okpebholo  By Isaac Eranga  Former Governor of Edo State, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, has scored Governor Monday Okpebholo high on his first one month in office, saying that he has set a new record in the history of governance in the State. Senator Oshiomhole gave the assessment on Thursday while speaking to newsmen at his residence in Iyamho, Estako West LGA of Edo State. Expressing satisfaction with Governor Okpebholo’s pragmatic approach to governance, Oshiomhole expressed joy that Edo people can now experience true and practical governance after eight years of Obaseki’s rhetoric and MOUs. Oshiomhole said: “We have in the history of Edo, for the first time, a Governor who started making appointments from the first day in office. No day, no minute, no seconds is lost. He has also made a number of profound decisions within these few days in office. “Everyone in Edo is a witness to the fact that the Governor from day one kicked t...

By Isaac Eranga, Journalists for Peace Network  In a bid to ensuring adequate security coverage for businesses in Edo State, members of Business and Hoteliers Stakeholders Forum (BHSF) recently met with Edo State Commissioner of Police- CP Umoru P. Ozigi at the State Police Headquarters in Benin City. Speaking, the President of BHSF and Chief Executive Officer of Canada World Conglomerate and Resort - Chief Bishop, Dr. Omogiade Edokpolo congratulated the CP on his assumption of office and thanked him for his effort so far made in preventing crimes in the State, especially the incessant gang killings and harmaside  that have ravaged Benin, the capital city of Edo State before his arrival as CP. He said since the arrival of the new CP, Edo people now sleep with their two eyes closed. He however called for more effort in protecting business owners and their businesses in the State especially when it comes to land grabbing and police harassment.  "Prior to your arrival Mr. CP...

By Isaac Eranga Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has described the death of Gen Godwin Abbe as shocking and a big blow to Edo State at a time his services was still needed. The Governor in a press statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary- Fred Itua and made available to pressmen said Abbe died in a private hospital in Abuja yesterday just few weeks to his 75th birthday, he said Abbe gave all his life serving the Nigerian Nation, having served as military Governor of Akwa ibom and Rivers states as well as Minister of Defense and Interior Ministries. The Governor expressed sadness over the death of the late Retired General and extended his heart felt sympathy to the family and the good people of Edo State and pray God to grant the deceased eternal rest in peace as well as grant the state the fortitude to bear the loss. The late Retired General Abbe according to family sources died in a private hospital after a protracted illness in Abuja the federal capital.

... Present farm implements to beneficiaries  By Isaac Eranga  Udo: As part of sustained effort in promoting forest conservation in rural communities, the Society for Sustainability and Conservation Education for Rural Areas (SCERA) has commissioned community Tree Nursery and Borehole at Udo community of Edo State. The commissioning also gave SCERA the opportunity to present farm implements to beneficiaries.  Speaking shortly after the commissioning, the Technical Program Coordinator- Mr. Joseph Molukwu said the essence of the project was to provide alternative livelihood support for communities, especially those that are sustainable and forest friendly. He said that informed SCERA in  targeting areas like bee keeping, agro forestry, nursery management, etc. "SCERA is very particular about those living close to the natural resources; the protected areas. Those people are very important to any conservation initiative of the National Park. So, we have to take them seri...

By Isaac Eranga  A cross-section of participants at the event As part of event in celebrating the 2024 world volunteers' day, the Ovia North East division of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Edo State branch has invested new Associate Patrons in a bid to promoting Red Cross activities in the division.  Among participants were pupils and students from Sacred Heart Nursery and Primary School- Eguosa; Ekibi Primary School- Ovbiogie; and Edohen Education Centre- Ovbiogie. Participants were trained on First Aid practicality.  Those invested include: an erstwhile Deputy Chairman of National Youth Council of Nigeria, Edo State Council - Amb. Comr. Alexander Best Edokpeawe and Mr. Anslem Onogholor. Those honoured with the Humanitarian Service Award include Europe based Dako Imomoh and Edirin Jaboro. Also awarded are: Mrs Abieyuwa Ogbeide, and Mr. Mathias Ahunsi. Speaking after the investiture, a  one-time representative of the National Association of Nigeria Students, Ambrose...

By Isaac Eranga  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has lifted the ban on activities of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in the State. This was contained in a press statement made available to newsmen in Benin City by the Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor- Fred Itua, and it came  shortly after the Union elected a new set of executive members who will pilot its affairs for the next four years. The new executive led by Comrade Saturday Oamen which was inaugurated at the Government House in Benin City, was charged to bring peace, progress, orderliness and protection of the rights of the common man. The charge was made by Governor Okpebholo, National President of NURTW, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya popularly known as Mc Oluomo and other national officers of the union. The swearing-in of the newly elected chairman and other executive members of the Edo NURTW followed the lifting of ban on union activities by Governor Okpebholo. The inauguration o...

By Fred Itua Ordinarily, such baseless commentaries would not merit a response. However, Ikechukwu Amaechi’s recent piece attacking Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State crosses the line from critique to personal vilification, compelling a rejoinder. In an age where substance in governance should take precedence over spectacle, it is disappointing to see Amaechi stoop to unwarranted attacks based on a fleeting moment during the Governor’s 2025 budget presentation. Far from constructive criticism, the piece devolves into a series of ad hominem arguments, diverting attention from the substantive issues of governance to irrelevant theatrics. Governor Okpebholo’s administration inherited a State ravaged by years of neglect under the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki. Edo State’s roads have crumbled, public services have deteriorated, and trust in governance has waned. Yet, within weeks of assuming office, the Governor has demonstrated a commitment to tackling these challenges head...

By Fred Itua  As nations continue to compete in technological, scientific and academic breakthroughs through various incentives, stakeholders in Nigeria have been worried that the nation has not paid much attention to this area as many deserving graduates are often left uncelebrated.  The social media space had in recent times been flooded with reports of best graduating students of universities being rewarded with as low as N1,000 cash, while many of our first class graduates roam the streets in endless search for job opportunities. This, which clearly contrasts the reality in other sectors like the entertainment world, were the winners of reality TV shows, beauty pageant and other events that add no quantifiable value to the society are rewarded with hundreds of millions of naira, had led to a culture where many young men have now popularized the saying,  “school na scam”. This discouraging paradox has seen a great relapse in the reading culture among the young ones. St...

By Isaac Eranga  A cross section of Volunteers during the International Volunteers Day  The Youth wing of the Nigeria Red Cross Society (NRCS), Edo State branch has called for joint efforts in promoting the virtue of volunteerism for Societal growth and development.  This call was made by the Youth wing Chairman of NRCR, Edo State branch- Trainer Kenny Isokpan, under the auspices of  the International Volunteers' Day. According to Trainer Isokpan, the day was dedicated to recognizing and appreciating the selfless efforts of volunteers around the world, who tirelessly dedicate their time and energy to making a positive impact in their various communities. "As the Youth Chairman of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Edo State Branch, I am honored to work alongside each and every one of you. Your commitment to the principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality is truly inspiring. "So let's celebrate our collective...

By Isaac Eranga  Benin city: The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, has congratulated Professor Edoba Bright Omoregie on his appointment and subsequent inauguration as the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin. This is contained in a statement signed by the chairman of the council, Comrade Dr Festus Alenkhe, JP and Secretary of the Council, Comrade Andy Egbon respectively and made available to journalists in Benin City, Edo State. According to the statement, "our warmest congratulations to you on your well-deserved appointment and assumption of office as the 11th substantive Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin (UNIBEN)". The statement described Professor Omoregie's elevation to the esteemed position as a testament to his exceptional contributions to the fields of law, governance, and academia over the years.  It further noted that as a distinguished scholar and administrator, his accomplishments serve as an inspiration, not only to the ...

.... call for the ban of importation of dental amalgam to Nigeria  By Isaac Eranga  Dr Tom Aneni, Executive Director, SEDI  Knowing the need to protect the most vulnerable population groups from amalgam, and the agreement of Parties to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, to accelerate the phase down of dental amalgam use, Sustainable Environment Development Initiative (SEDI) has called on Nigeria government to implement the Children’s Amendment to the Minamata Convention, which calls for the phase-out of dental amalgam for dental treatment of deciduous teeth, patients under 15 years and pregnant and breastfeeding women.  This call was made by the Executive Director of SEDI- Dr. Tom Aneni  while answering questions from the SOCIAL REPORTERS NEWS SERVICE in Benin city.  According to Dr. Aneni, dental amalgam contains 45-55% mercury which is disastrous to the environment, harmful to dental workers, and a health risk to dental patients, especially children and...

By Isaac  Eranga  Lagos: As part of event marking the World Diabetes Day (WDD), members of Lagos Achievers Lions Club, District 404 A3, Nigeria organized a blood screening and testing activity on Saturday 16th of November for Obalende South and Ijeh-Dolphin residents. The event which commenced very early in the day, started with an enlightenment on causes, symptoms and practical ways of  preventing diabetes, known as the  'silent killer'. The enlightenment was anchored by personnel from Kedi Healthcare who doubles as a member of the Lions Club International and Blue Circle member of the International Diabetes Federation, Lion Osarenkhoe E. Chima-Nwogwugwu.  The screening for diabetes and testing for blood glucose level followed there after and was handled by trained members of Lagos Achievers Lions Club, nurses and doctors as well as volunteers from the community.  Other tests carried out at the event  included blood pressure checks and body mass index...

By Isaac  Eranga  Dr. Louisa Eikhomun-Agbonkhese presenting the book "Surviving Domestic Violence in Relation to Laws on Protection in Nigeria" to Barr. Aigbeze. First left is Ayo Amen Ediae, first right is Mrs. Obhih As part of effort in curbing domestic violence in Edo State, Echoes of Women in Africa Initiative (ECOWA) has collaborated with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Benin City. This was the thrust of the advocacy visit paid to IOM by ECOWA recently in Benin.  Speaking, the Founder  of ECOWA- Dr Louisa Eikhomun-Agbonkhese said the visit was meant to  share ECOWA's work on domestic violence  and abuse with IOM and also learn from IOM's work for possible collaboration. She said ECOWA has done several projects in ameliorating the plight of women that are victims of domestic violence.  "ECOWA has maintained the following programme areas over the course of several years: Social Justice Education, Research and Policy Advocacy, Prac...

By Isaac Eranga  A new 3 bedroom Presidential Groove apartment has been officially opened for lodgement inside Canada World in Benin City.  Also officially opened for lodgement are: 3 bedroom Inn Paradise, 3 bedroom air view, 1 bedroom Lovers Rock, and 1 room self-contained apartment known as the Bachelors. For bookings and reservations, call +2347030917646. Or visit Canada World Conglomerate and Resorts, Country Home Road, opposite Agip, Sapele Road, Benin City. Canada World Conglomerate and Resorts also pride itself with state-of-the-art recreational facilities and gyms center.

By Isaac Eranga  A 1-day review of non-polio supplemental immunization activities (NPSIA) with the media and women-led civil society organisations (CSOs) to improve vaccine trust and uptake in Edo state, has been held in Benin penultimate weekend. Welcoming participants, the Program Director- Mrs Rose Imonikhe said the meeting was aimed at improving vaccine trust and uptake in Edo state. She said the meeting was a platform for stakeholders to forge a formidable front in the area of sensitisation and awareness creation for Edo people.  "Edo people has over the years expressed apathy in vaccine uptake. This meeting is meant to reverse this ugly trend.  "There's also increasing fear that there will be an outbreak of vaccine preventable diseases, hence the need for sensitisation and enlightenment campaigns", she said. In a keynote address, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Communication and Orientation (MOCO)- Dr. Desmond Agbama reiterated that part of Gov. Okpebholo...

As Sen. Monday Okpebholo settled in office to carry out his legitimate business as governor of Edo state, Key stakeholders in the business and hospitality industries in the State, have assured of their collaborations with the Okpebholo's led administration, in order to take Edo to a level of unprecedented height.  The stakeholders under the auspices of Business and  Hoteliers Stakeholders Forum (BHSF), a nonpartisan pressure group, said the business of development cannot be left in the hands of government alone, hence the need for private partnerships. Speaking, the President of BHSF, Edo state - Chief Dr, Bishop, Omogiade Enoyiogiere Edokpolo, said BHSF is ready to support the developmental drive of Gov. Okpebholo and his team, in order to bring about the needed growth, progress, positive change in the State.  "We are ready to show to Edo state  government the best ways to use her resources to relieve poverty and raise living standards and to show how to change Edo ...

By Isaac  Eranga  The Edo indigenous leader and President  Edo Progressive Indigenous Association (EPIA), also known as Edo Indigenous Movement- Chief Dr. Bishop Omogiade  Enoyiogiere  Edokpolo has congratulated the Edo State governor- Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Rt. Hon. Denis Idahosa for successful assumption of office as governor and deputy governor respectively. He called on them to bring their years of experience to bear in administering Edo people. The  Omo-Iza of Igarra Kingdom said EPIA- a sociocultural nonpartisan organisation is ready to partner with the State government in moving the State forward. Chief Edokpolo who is the CEO of  Canada World Conglomerates & Resort and President- Business and Hoteliers Stakeholders Forum, Edo State used the medium to admonish Sen. Okpebholo to carry all the senatorial districts along in order to spread development to all the nook and crannies of Edo State.  "Sen. Okpebholo is a calm and humble man t...

By Isaac Eranga  Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as his Chief of Staff. The appointment takes immediate effect.  In an official communication signed by the Secretary to State Government, Musa Umar Ikhilor, and made available to newsmen by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor- Fred Itua, Audu's appointment will help Governor Okpebholo in driving meaningful reforms in the State.  “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly the good people of Edo State, that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has approved the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as his Chief of Staff. The appointment takes immediate effect,” the official communication signed by the Secretary to State Government read. Hon. Audu, born 18th August 1969, obtained an HND from Auchi Polytechnic in 1994, a PGD in Business Administration from Benson Idahosa University in 2011 and an M.Sc in In...

By Isaac Eranga  A 5-Star hotel located in the serene environment of Benin city, Edo State, Nigeria- The canada World, has introduced a new world apartment live in its premises.  Speaking to Social Reporters News Service, the Chief Executive Officer- Chief Dr. Omogiade Edokpolo said the new apartment was in line with world practice. He said though the cost is affordable, "it pride itself with the values of quality, security, comfortability, hospitality, confidentiality, friendliness, etc. The new apartment which is now available for lodgement has the following: 3 bedrooms; 2 bedrooms;1 bedroom and Self contain apartments. For bookings and reservations, call the following helpline: 08056927278 or visit Canada World along Country Home Motel Road, Off Sapele Road, Benin city.