FIC REPORT (EDO STATE) – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting Edo State’s development through strategic investments in road infrastructure, healthcare, energy, agriculture, entrepreneurship and security.
The President gave the assurance through Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, to commemorate the second anniversary of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
Speaking at the event, Shettima said the Federal Government remained committed to its understanding with the people of Edo State, stressing that the state was central to the success of efforts to bridge Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit.
“We have come to assure you that you can count on us too. When we came to you four years ago, we said we could not address our nation’s infrastructure deficit without carrying Edo State along. We have not abandoned that agreement,” he said.
The Vice President disclosed that construction work had commenced on the dualisation of major roads leading to Ekpoma, Auchi and Okpella, as well as the Benin-Agbor-Sapele Road. He assured residents that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise road infrastructure and other development projects across the state.
Shettima further highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting Edo in critical sectors, including healthcare, energy, entrepreneurship, agriculture and security.
He also acknowledged ongoing efforts towards the recovery of Benin artefacts and the transfer of ownership of the Benin treasures to Nigeria, describing the initiative as significant to the preservation of the country’s cultural heritage.
The Vice President commended Governor Okpebholo for his performance in office, noting that his administration had continued to strengthen the APC’s presence in the state. He added that President Tinubu held the governor in high regard and remained supportive of his efforts to deliver development to the people of Edo.
In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo expressed confidence in Edo State’s readiness to support President Tinubu’s re-election bid in January 2027, attributing the state’s commitment to what he described as the President’s contributions to its development.
“In Edo State, we are ready to deliver come January 2027. The President has done so much for Edo people. Today, we don’t owe salaries. We don’t owe pensioners. Construction work is going on everywhere,” the governor stated.
He maintained that ongoing construction projects across the state reflected his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development, improved service delivery and the welfare of workers and pensioners.
Also speaking, former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North Senatorial District, Adams Oshiomhole, congratulated Governor Okpebholo on his second anniversary in office and commended his administration’s efforts towards the development of the state.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, were also among the dignitaries who addressed the gathering.
The rally attracted top government officials, APC national and state leaders, political stakeholders and residents of Edo State. Participants expressed support for President Tinubu’s leadership and reiterated the party’s commitment to its target of securing 2.5 million votes for his re-election in 2027.
Daniel E. Ejodamen
Federal Information Centre, Benin City.
November 12, 2026.
