FIC Report (Edo State) – Edo State on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, marked a significant milestone in its transportation sector with the official inauguration of the revamped Edo Line Transport Service. The event, held in Benin City, was attended by key government officials, traditional leaders, transport unions, and civil society groups, reflecting broad support for the state’s ambitious efforts to modernize regional mobility.
The Event was spearheaded by Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, marked a significant milestones in the State’sdrive to podition itself as a regional Leader in Inter-State Mobility and Public Service delivery. This was bolstered by active participation and support from Federal Government, notably the presence of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, exemplifies collaborative approach / push for regional development and partnership in fostering sustainable growth.
The relaunched Edo Line now operates with over 100 modern buses, transcends mere vehicles replacement and enhancing the safety, affordability, and reliability of public transport. This initiative aims to restore Public confidence, facilitate Economic activities, and improve mobility for residents—including students, traders, and Low-Income Earners—while also contributing to regional Security by reducing dependence on informal, often unsafe Motor Parks associated with exploitation and Insecurity.
Governor Monday Okpebholo emphasized that the Edo Line revival aligns with his Administration’s broader vision of improving Public Service Delivery and fostering regional integration. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support and reaffirmed Edo’s commitment to impactful development projects. As part of his Political strategy, the governor also pledged to secure 2.5 million votes in the 2027 presidential election, framing it as a gesture of appreciation for Federal backing.
Minister Wike lauded Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, noting the rapid progress achieved within a relatively short period. “In just eight months, Edo is accomplishing what many states have struggled with over years,” Wike remarked. He highlighted that the revitalized Edo Line not only enhances transportation but also plays a vital role in regional security, reducing reliance on informal transport hubs linked to insecurity and exploitation.
The event was attended by Traditional rulers, Transport Unions, Civil Society Groups, and Political Stakeholders, all supporting Edo’s vision of becoming a regional leader in Nigeria’s transportation landscape. Analysts see this project as a testament to Governor Okpebholo’s pragmatic and results-oriented leadership, blending legacy, innovation, and community-focused development.
This initiative positions Edo State at the forefront of Nigeria’s regional transportation sector, with the involvement of influential figures like Minister Wike reinforcing its strategic importance at the national level. The successful relaunch of Edo Line signals a new era of connectivity, safety, and economic growth for the state and its neighboring regions.
Signed
Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO
FIC, Benin.
July 23rd, 2025.
