FIC Report (Edo State) – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has commissioned 54 pieces of construction equipment supplied by the Edo State Government for use across the state’s 18 Local Government Areas. Wike described the initiative as a significant step toward enhancing rural economic growth and infrastructure.
During the Commissioning ceremony held Monday, February 23rd, 2026 in Benin City, Wike lauded Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo for his dedication to rural empowerment and inclusive development. He emphasized that such interventions are vital for accelerating Community Infrastructure, improving living standards, and fostering economic resilience at the grassroots level.
The minister highlighted that Edo’s approach aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader national development agenda, which emphasizes strengthening local governance and infrastructure. Wike noted that recent electoral successes across Nigeria reflect public confidence in the government’s developmental agenda.
Governor Okpebholo, in his remarks, regarded the equipment handover as a strategic move to strengthen local governance and deliver tangible benefits to rural communities. He reaffirmed his Administration’s commitment to the “SHINE Agenda,” which advocates for equitable development beyond urban centers. The Governor stated that the machinery would be employed in opening rural roads, improving drainage systems, enhancing sanitation, and accelerating infrastructure projects at the grassroots level. He stressed the importance of transparent management of the equipment to ensure they serve the intended purpose.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, commended the Governor’s efforts, citing the initiative as evidence of a renewed focus on improving Citizens’ welfare and transforming the State’s development narrative.
Representing Local Government Interests, Sunny Ekpeson, Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Edo and Chairman of Etsako East Local Government, praised the effort as a vital step toward strengthening grassroots governance and advancing the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He expressed confidence that the equipment would enable Local Councils to deliver visible infrastructure and better services to their Communities.
Additionally, Edesili Anani Okpebholo, Coordinator of the Edo State First Lady’s Office, commended the Government’s inclusive approach, highlighting efforts to empower women and improve sectors such as Security, Healthcare, and Agriculture.
The event was attended by prominent leaders, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor, Edo State House of Assembly Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, Local Government Chairmen, Party Officials, community Stakeholders.
This Commissioning marks another milestone in Edo State’s ongoing efforts to enhance Local Government capacity, promote practical governance, and accelerate development at the grassroots level.
Signed
EGWAOJE Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO
FIC, Benin
February 23rd, 2026.
