Ministry of Information and Strategy

10/08/2026

Information Commissioner Faults Use of 2026 pSPI to Assess Okpebholo Administration

By Maureen Nwine

The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua has challenged attempts to use the 2026 Phillips Consulting States Performance Index (pSPI) as a definitive measure of the performance of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, arguing that the assessment largely reflects conditions inherited from previous administrations.

The Commissioner stated that while the government welcomed independent assessments of governance, such reports must be interpreted within their methodology and assessment periods.

According to him, Governor Okpebholo assumed office on November 12, 2024, when most of the period covered by the 2026 assessment had already elapsed. He therefore argued that several indicators used in the ranking, including internally generated revenue, debt sustainability, fiscal management, audited accounts and institutional performance, were outcomes of policies and decisions made before the present administration.

Afegbua said it was therefore misleading to attribute such historical outcomes entirely to an administration that had only recently assumed office during the period under review.

He noted that the Okpebholo administration had since its inauguration introduced a number of interventions aimed at changing the state’s development trajectory. These include strengthening revenue administration, constructing and rehabilitating roads, regularising over 5,000 teachers, renovating more than 80 public schools and upgrading over 70 primary healthcare centres.

Other interventions, he said, include the recruitment of additional health personnel, deployment of about 2,500 Security Corps personnel and 500 Forest Guards, as well as ongoing urban renewal, market reconstruction, public service reforms and youth development initiatives.

The commissioner said future editions of the performance index would provide a more accurate assessment of the administration, as they would increasingly reflect policies and programmes initiated and implemented under Governor Okpebholo.

“Governance should be judged not merely by inherited circumstances but by the vision, leadership and measurable progress achieved in transforming them,” Afegbua said.

He reaffirmed the state government’s openness to independent assessments, while urging analysts and the public to consider the chronology and methodology of such assessments when evaluating government performance.

06/08/2026

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On this Edition👇🏿
✅Edo state hos emphasizes staff contribution to service development, awards outstanding officers...page 4

✅Edo's hidden treasure: unlocking solid minerals for sustainable economic growth .... Page 7

✅Interview with hon valentine asuen chairman edo state forestry commission..... Pages 8 and 9

✅Edo state tourism agency partners nanta on boosting tourism development .... Page 12

✅Security team deployed to iyanomo community to restore peace........page 25

05/08/2026

TMB Rolls Out TBA Referral Policy on Improving Maternal, Child Health
.. We must repair life for upcoming generations - Ugbesia

By Clementina Agweda

The Edo State Traditional Medicine Board (TMB) has launched a Referral Policy for Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) as part of efforts to strengthen maternal and child healthcare and to reduce preventable maternal and neonatal deaths across the State.

The Chairman of the Board, High Chief Abudu Godwin Ugbesia JP, announced the initiative during a stakeholders' engagement on the implementation of the Referral Policy for TBAs, which held under the theme, "Safe Motherhood Through Timely Traditional Birth Referral."

Describing the policy as a critical intervention, Ugbesia said it would strengthen collaboration between TBAs and healthcare facilities to ensure that pregnant women with complications receive prompt medical attention. In his words, "We must repair life for upcoming generations," reaffirming the Board's commitment to regulating and improving the practice of TBAs through continuous training, monitoring and collaboration with public and private healthcare institutions.

Ugbesia urged TBAs to strictly comply with the referral policy and work closely with health facilities to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths. According to him, the Board has trained more than 1,000 TBAs across the State to improve service delivery and encourage safer childbirth practices. He encouraged practitioners to share knowledge, uphold professional standards and strengthen cooperation within the Traditional Medicine Sector, noting that Traditional Medicine remains an important component of healthcare delivery.

The stakeholders' engagement brought together TBAs, healthcare professionals, government officials and private medical practitioners to discuss the importance of timely referrals in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.

The representative of the Commissioner for Health and Director of Family and Community Health Services, Dr. Idemudia Osayomore, described TBAs as indispensable partners in community healthcare, particularly in rural and underserved areas. He urged participants to promptly refer pregnant women experiencing high-risk pregnancies or delivery complications to appropriate health facilities, stressing that early referral is essential to improving survival outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Dr. Osayomore described the growing collaboration between traditional and orthodox medicine as a long-awaited and welcome development. He advised TBAs to recognise the limits of their practice and ensure timely referrals to hospitals whenever complications arise.

A discussion panel involving healthcare professionals and TBAs examined practical challenges affecting referrals and explored strategies for strengthening communication, trust and collaboration between TBAs and healthcare facilities. Participants agreed that early identification of danger signs during pregnancy and prompt referral to qualified medical centres are vital to saving lives.

A representative of the Chief Medical Director of the Edo State Specialist Hospital, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr. Clement Ikponmwen, described the Referral Policy as a timely intervention that would facilitate the early identification and management of high-risk pregnancies. He urged TBAs to make referrals without delay to prevent avoidable maternal and neonatal deaths.

Dignitaries at the event included the Sole Board Member of the Edo State TMB, Princess Helen Asekhaime; the management and staff of the Board; representatives of the Association of Private Medical Practitioners; officials of the Hospital Management Services; among other stakeholders, who delivered goodwill messages in support of the initiative.

The highlight of the programme was the official presentation of referral forms to registered TBAs for use across the State's local government areas. The Board said the initiative would improve documentation, strengthen continuity of care and deepen collaboration between TBAs and healthcare providers.

The engagement reaffirmed the Edo State TMB's commitment to promoting safe motherhood through effective referral practices and fostering stronger partnerships between traditional and orthodox healthcare providers to improve maternal and child health outcomes across Edo State.

05/08/2026

Edo State Commissioner for Physical Planning Urges Architects to Combat Quackery

By Evelyn Unuigbe (ANIPR)

The Edo State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Hon. Vincent Uwadiae Esq., has called on the Nigeria Institute of Architects (NIA) to intensify efforts at eliminating quackery in the profession, warning that the activities of unqualified practitioners pose serious risks to public safety and the built environment.

Hon. Uwadiae made the call in Benin City while receiving the Chairman and Executive Committee members of the NIA, who paid a courtesy visit on his office in Benin, where he expressed concerns over the increasing number of unqualified individuals posing as architects, and noted that many building plans submitted to the Ministry fail to meet the required professional standards.

According to the Commissioner, the Ministry has had to reject several building designs because they did not comply with established planning and architectural requirements. In his words, "At times, when you see some of the designs brought to the Ministry by these so-called architects, you begin to wonder whether they ever received formal training."

The Commissioner urged the Institute to intensify public sensitisation on the importance of engaging only registered architects in the preparation of building plans, stressing that qualified professionals play a critical role in ensuring the safety, durability and sustainability of buildings.

Responding to concerns over delays in building plan approvals, Hon. Uwadiae explained that the Ministry's review process is often delayed by incomplete documentation, non-compliant building designs and the absence of accurate contact details for applicants. He assured stakeholders that applications accompanied by complete documentation and designs that satisfy the required standards would receive approval within two months.

"Once all the required documents are complete and the proposed building design complies with the stipulated standards, I can assure you that approval will be granted in less than two months," the Commissioner stated.

Earlier, the Chairman of the NIA, Arc. Wilson Agbonta, congratulated Hon. Uwadiae on his appointment and reaffirmed the Institute's readiness to collaborate with the Edo State Government in promoting professional standards and sustainable infrastructure development. He said closer collaboration between the Ministry and the Institute would strengthen regulatory compliance and ensure that only qualified architects undertake architectural projects across the State.

Also present at the engagement were the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Builder Joseph Nyamali; the Managing Director of the Edo State Development and Building Control Agency (ESDBCA), Hon. Igabali Darlington; the Director of Building Control, Arc. Kate Isokpunwu; the Director of Housing, Engr. Victor Osazuwa; among other senior officials of the Ministry.

05/08/2026

Ministry of Education Pledges Stronger Support for Mathematics Teaching, Learning

By Osobase A. Oseremen

The Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Ministry of Education, Sir Enodolomwanyi Otamere, has reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to strengthening the teaching and learning of Mathematics across the State through strategic collaboration with the Mathematics Association of Nigeria (MAN), Edo State Chapter.

Sir Otamere gave the assurance while receiving the leadership of the Association, who paid a courtesy visit on his office at the Ministry's Headquarters in Benin City.

The Permanent Secretary commended the Association for its commitment to promoting excellence in Mathematics education and enhancing the capacity of teachers and students across the State. He described Mathematics as a foundational subject for national development, and stressed the need for sustained investment in science and mathematics education. "Mathematics is a very vital subject that must continue to receive the encouragement and support of all stakeholders," he stated.

He informed the delegation that the Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo had approved the procurement of a Mobile Science Laboratory to strengthen the teaching of science subjects in schools across Edo State. He pledged the Ministry's continued support for the Association's programmes and encouraged its leadership to maintain close collaboration with the Ministry to facilitate timely assistance for future activities.

As part of support for Edo State's participation in the forthcoming National Mathematics Quiz Competition, Sir Otamere pledged that the Ministry would provide one 18-seater bus to transport the State delegation to and from the Host State.

The visit was aimed at congratulating the Permanent Secretary on his appointment and seeking the Ministry's partnership in advancing mathematics education and supporting the Association's programmes in Edo State.

The Chairman of the MAN, Edo State Chapter, Mr. Anthony Agbons Ogbomo-Law, while congratulating Sir Otamere on his appointment as Permanent Secretary, commended the Governor for his sustained commitment to improving the Education Sector in Edo State. He outlined the Association's activities for 2026, to include a capacity-building seminar and workshop for Mathematics teachers, as well as the annual Mathematics Olympiad and Quiz Competition to be conducted at both the local government areas and the State levels.

Mr. Ogbomo-Law presented the final list of students who were selected to represent Edo State at the National Mathematics Quiz Competition scheduled to hold August 30, 2026. He appealed to the Ministry to provide transportation support to ensure the safe movement of the students and officials to and from the competition venue.

Highpoint of the engagement was the presentation of a branded Mathematics Association of Nigeria T-shirt to the Permanent Secretary by the Association's leadership. Other personalities present included the Director of Accounts, Mrs. Uwafiokun Mercy; the Director of Examinations, Mrs. Ero Ugiagbe; Fellow of the Association, Prof. Laurence I. Aguele; the Edo South Coordinator of MAN, Mr. Braimah Cletus; among other members of the Association.

03/08/2026

29/07/2026

Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua explains the rationale behind the proposed sale of Edo house in Lagos

22/07/2026

Akoko-Edo Council Conducts Physical Verification of ESSN Operatives to Strengthen Security

The Akoko-Edo Local Government Council has commenced a screening and physical verification exercise for operatives of the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) as part of efforts to strengthen security and address operational concerns within the Local Government Area (LGA).

The exercise which held at the Council Secretariat, was initiated by the Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Council, Rt. Hon. Alabi Bliss Oshionogue, to enhance accountability, improve personnel management, and streamline payment processes for ESSN operatives.

Addressing officers and men of ESSN, the Council Chairman reaffirmed his administration's commitment to safeguarding lives and property, describing the verification exercise as a necessary step towards resolving complaints from operatives and ensuring a more coordinated and efficient security framework.

The Council Chairman directed operatives to intensify surveillance in the Imoga axis of the LGA due to its strategic location along the borders with Ondo and Kogi states, stressing the need for greater collaboration among security personnel to improve grassroots intelligence gathering. "When you see something, say something. Work closely with your unit commanders and promptly report any suspicious movement within your area of responsibility," he advised.

Rt. Hon. Oshionogue warned against absenteeism and indiscipline, directing operatives to report any personnel who failed to participate in the verification exercise for appropriate disciplinary action, including possible removal from the payroll. He reiterated that his administration remains committed to building a safer and more prosperous Akoko-Edo, noting that sustainable development can only thrive in a peaceful and secure environment.

The Chairman disclosed that the Edo State Government, under the leadership of Sen. Monday Okpebholo, is considering additional incentives to boost the morale and effectiveness of ESSN operatives. According to him, the State's commitment to strengthening grassroots security aligns with the Governo's SHINE Agenda, which prioritises security, inclusive governance, and rural development. He pledged that his administration will continue to work closely with the State Government and security agencies to promote peace and ensure the safety of residents in the area.

Present at the engagement were the Secretary to the Local Government Council, Hon. T**a John Okomayin; the Chief Security Officer to the Chairman, Mr. Linus Ajaiye; the representative of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Austin Great; the Coordinator of the Corps and Head of Sector One, Adele Cletus; Sector Commander Two, Mr. Ayoola Abiola; Sector Commander Three, Mr. Alabi James; among others.

Okolo Jonathan Okhavhe
Public Relations Officer
Akoko-Edo Local Government Council

22/07/2026

Security Is Everybody's Business, Requires Active Citizen Participation – Anani

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has called on residents to take greater responsibility for the security of their communities, stressing that safeguarding lives and property requires the active participation of every citizen.

Mrs. Anani made the call during a meeting with a delegation of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Edo State Command, led by the State Commandant, Commandant Ehiaghe Akhere Best, at the Government House in Benin City.

She emphasised that ensuring lasting peace and security cannot be the sole responsibility of security agencies, noting that sustainable security depends on vigilance, timely intelligence sharing, and continuous collaboration between citizens and relevant authorities.

Commending the CJTF for its grassroots security efforts, the Coordinator described community-based security structures as critical partners in monitoring and reporting suspicious activities across the State's 18 local government areas. She urged residents to support government initiatives aimed at tackling crime and maintaining public safety, adding that a collective approach to security would foster safer communities for families, women, children, and businesses.

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Deputy Commandant of the CJTF, Nelson Ayodeji, disclosed that the organisation operates in Edo State under an approval granted by the Inspector General of Police and maintains operational collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Military.

He appealed for greater support from the Edo State Government to strengthen the operations of the CJTF across the state.

According to Ayodeji, the Organisation currently operates in Edo North, Edo Central, and Edo South, covering communities including Iyamho, Auchi, South Ibie, Uromi, Uzea, Igueben, Ikpoba-Okha, and Oredo. He explained that the CJTF's primary responsibility is to observe, document, and report suspicious activities to the police and the DSS, stressing that its members neither carry out arrests nor intimidate members of the public.

He noted that most CJTF personnel serve voluntarily and regularly patrol forests and vulnerable communities despite limited logistics and operational resources. He cited an incident in Ekpoma where CJTF volunteers apprehended a suspected thief and handed the suspect over to the police for further investigation, as one of the Group's contributions to security.

He expressed confidence that increased government support would significantly enhance their operational effectiveness and contribute to reducing insecurity across Edo State.

Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady, Edo State