Okpebholo calls for deeper Edo-Italy cooperation as Italian envoy praises state’s peace, culture

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called for deeper collaboration between Edo State and Italy, describing cultural exchange as a viable platform for economic growth, mutual understanding and sustainable development.

The governor made the call during a courtesy visit by the Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Italy in Abuja, Mr. Iacopo Foti, who was in the state after participating in the recent Edo Carnival in Benin City.

Okpebholo said Edo State is open to strategic sub-national partnerships with Italy that would deliver mutual benefits, noting that cooperation at that level remains critical to growth and global relevance. He described Edo as rich in culture, history, creativity and enterprise, adding that partnerships built on these strengths would yield lasting dividends.

The visit also featured engagements across Edo’s three senatorial districts, with Mr. Foti meeting key stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku; House of Representatives Majority Leader, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere; the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika; APC deputy chairman, Sylvester Aigbobor; the Chairman of Oredo Local Government Area, and other leaders from Edo South, Central and North.

Earlier, Mr. Foti expressed admiration for Edo State, describing his visit as enlightening and noting that the state is peaceful and its people optimistic about the future, contrary to perceptions often portrayed outside the state.

He said his experience in Benin City confirmed Edo’s reputation as the “Heartbeat of Nigeria,” describing the Edo Carnival as an authentic showcase of the people’s rich cultural heritage and identity.

Drawing parallels between Italy and Edo State, Foti noted that both societies value preserving history while embracing modern development. He said Edo reflects a people who honour their past while confidently shaping their future, much like Italy’s own cultural evolution.

The Italian envoy also commended Governor Okpebholo’s efforts in strengthening security, stressing that a safe environment is essential for tourism, investment and sustainable development. He highlighted the growing Italy–Nigeria relationship, citing expanding economic ties, cultural exchanges, education, tourism and shared interests in creative industries.

Okpebholo said the shared values between Edo State and Italy provide a strong foundation for enhanced cooperation, assuring the Italian delegation of the state’s readiness to pursue meaningful cultural, economic and creative-sector partnerships.