FIC REPORT (EDO STATE) – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has praised journalists for their contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, peace and national unity, describing the media as an essential partner in nation-building.
He made the remarks on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, while receiving members of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) at Government House in Benin City.
Okpebholo recognised Journalists’ role in keeping the Public informed, noting that many work in difficult and dangerous conditions.
“Only the verified are actually Journalism” He retairated
Continuing, he said their commitment to reporting, including from conflict zones, deserved recognition.
“You people have contributed to Nigeria’s democracy. You fought for what we are enjoying today. You fought for the peace of Nigeria. You fought for the unity of this country, and you remain in our hearts,” he said.
The Governor described the NUJ’s visit as the start of a lasting partnership with his Administration. He disclosed that Edo State hopes the relationship will strengthen engagement between the Media and Government and contribute to a new chapter for Journalism in Edo State.*
On the State-Owned Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), Okpebholo pledged to reposition the station and improve its visibility and performance. He said his administration wanted EBS to compete with leading Nigerian television networks and reach viewers at home and abroad.
“By the time I leave Edo State as governor, EBS will be like TVC or Channels, because that is our primary station,” he said.
Okpebholo also said increased revenue allocations to States following the removal of the fuel subsidy had helped his administration sustain salary payments, carry out infrastructure projects and intensify efforts to address insecurity. He said Edo State currently receives about ₦7.8 billion.
Earlier, Edo NUJ Council Chairman Festus Alenkhe, JP, thanked the Governor for appointing him Managing Director of EBS. He pledged to carry out the role responsibly and said he would not disappoint the administration or NUJ members.
NUJ Vice-Chairman Ede Agho commended Okpebholo for appointing Alenkhe as EBS managing director and Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele as Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, says move shows commitment to Professionalism
The Council Leaders reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to promoting professional journalism and improving communication between the Government and the Public.
Dignitries included Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq.; Chief Of Staff Hon. Yakubu Musa, JP; Commissioner for Information and Strategy Prince Kassim Afegbua; Chief Press Secretary Dr Patrick Ebojele; among Others
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
CI&PRO, FIC Benin
And
Omoluogbe Ruth
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin
27 October 2026
