By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY—The governor of Edo State,  Monday Okpebholo, yesterday celebrated his first 100 days in office, stating that he had laid the foundation for a homegrown economy where the state would be run by its people rather than by external consultants, as was the case in the previous administration.

The event, held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub in Benin City, attracted dignitaries, including the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Dr. Abdulahi Ganduje; former governor of the state, Sen. Adams Oshiomhole; two former deputy governors, Dr. Pius Odubu and Hon. Philip Shaibu; Sen. Matthew Uroghide; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku; Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu; commissioners; members of the state House of Assembly; traditional rulers; and others. The event caused gridlock along the busy Airport Road and adjoining streets.

Okpebholo stated that in the last 100 days, 3,500 illegal arms had been recovered from the now-reformed Edo State Security Corps, noting that to combat insecurity, 75 Toyota Hilux vehicles and 50 motorcycles have been procured for security agencies.

He further emphasized his administration’s efforts in tackling cultism, saying, “We have amended the Anti-Cultism and Anti-Kidnapping Law with stiffer penalties, leading to a significant reduction in cult-related violence.”

On the economy, Okpebholo said, “We have taken significant steps to strengthen our economy by increasing the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to over ten billion naira (N10 billion), the highest ever recorded in our state’s history. This was achieved through prudent financial management strategies deployed by my government. We have disengaged wasteful consultants and reinvested resources into strengthening public service efficiency.”

The governor highlighted achievements in the health sector, including the launch of free malaria tests and treatment for the next two years. He also mentioned support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through soft loans for traders.

He said, “In this short but impactful period, we have laid a strong foundation for progress across critical sec

When we took over from the last administration, we inherited a state full of potential but facing serious challenges. Infrastructure was inadequate, businesses were struggling, and the public sector needed urgent reforms.

“From day one, our goal has been clear: to restore trust in leadership, create opportunities, and set Edo on the path to lasting progress. While there is still much to be done, we have begun taking decisive steps to turn our vision into reality.”

“The future of our state under my leadership is bright, as evident in the progress we have made together. With our Economic Development Plan, which prioritizes agriculture, infrastructure, and investment in youth skills development, I envision Edo becoming the fifth-largest economy in Nigeria. Our goal is to drive sustainable economic growth over the next four years.”

On his part, Senator Adam Oshiomhole praised Okpebholo, stating that he had proven to be an action-driven governor rather than one of mere rhetoric. He expressed confidence that Okpebholo would recover lost ground in terms of good governance.

Speaker Agbebaku affirmed that the State House of Assembly had resolved to prioritize governance over politics and had demonstrated this commitment through the bills they had passed into law for the betterment of the state.

APC National Chairman, Ganduje also commended the governor, saying, “You have, within 100 days, laid the foundation for the remaining years of your administration. Though you are set for four years, you will do four plus four. Members of the National Working Committee (NWC) are happy with you because we have been following your progress in the media, and many members who have visited the state have heard great things about you.”