Edo govt targets roads, health, agriculture as Okpebholo steps up development drive

By Olatonmiwa Osho

The Edo State Government has announced a broad programme of infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, security and cultural development projects, promising that quality, durability and improved living conditions will remain central to Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy Prince Kassim Afegbua disclosed the plans in Benin City during a press briefing on the administration’s policies, programmes and achievements.

Afegbua said the government was prioritising quality and durability in road construction, with major projects scheduled around the rainy season to support proper execution and extend their lifespan, adding “The administration is also rehabilitating inherited roads with weak foundations and incorporating drainage into critical projects”.

In agriculture, he highlighted rice production in Warrake and Ekpoma, as well as maize farming in Udomi. He added that the government was producing and distributing desks and chairs to improve learning conditions in schools.

Afegbua attributed the reported decline in kidnapping and violent crime to measures including the deployment of forest guards and coordinated police patrols along vulnerable routes.

Commissioner for Art, Culture and Tourism, Chris Okaiben said the government was restoring cultural sites, including the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre, while improving access to tourist destinations.

He also announced the renaming of MOWAA as the Edo Museum of West African Arts, or EMOWAA.

The Executive Secretary of the Edo Drugs and Health Commodities Management Agency, Pharm. Dr. Kenny Okojie, said the agency had digitised its inventory system and strengthened medical-supply management within six months of operation.