Embarks on Statewide Inspection of Key Projects
By Godson Aifamokhai
It was a day of excitement and celebration across Edo State on Tuesday as Governor Monday Okpebholo embarked on another round of inspection tours to mark his one year in office; a journey that showcased the visible transformation taking shape under his administration.
From the buzzing streets of Ikpoba Hill to the construction zone at Adesuwa Junction and the newly tarred Okpagha–Amufi Road, the Governor’s convoy moved through cheering crowds, singing students, and dancing traders, all eager to express their appreciation for what many described as “a breath of fresh air” in governance.
At the Army Day Secondary School, Ikpoba Hill, which recently underwent a massive facelift, the atmosphere was electric. Students in neatly pressed uniforms waved flags and sang songs of praise as they welcomed the governor. Parents and teachers held banners with inscriptions like “Edo is Shining Again” and “Okpebholo, the Hope Restorer!”
Governor Okpebholo, visibly moved by the warm reception, recalled the school’s poor condition during his last visit. “There were no roofs, no windows, and no learning facilities,” he said. “Now, we have air-conditioned laboratories, fully renovated classrooms, and a secure compound. This is the transformation we promised.”
He further announced plans to install solar-powered streetlights within the school premises, assuring students of a safer and more conducive environment for night study.
Commissioner for Education, Hon. Paddy Iyamu, hailed the project as “a complete turnaround story,” saying the school has become a model for other public institutions in the state. “Children now learn in dignity, not despair,” he noted.
The Governor’s efforts also drew commendation from PDP stalwart, Otunba Segun Sowunmi, who lauded Okpebholo’s people-focused leadership. “Every investment in education is an investment in the state’s future,” he said.
An old student of the school, Dr. Oduwale Egwaigie, described the development as “historic.” According to him, “For years, we begged for intervention. But within months, this administration delivered. Parents are even withdrawing their wards from private schools to enroll here.”
The Governor’s next stop was Adesuwa Junction, where work on the state’s second flyover bridge is progressing rapidly. Residents lined the streets in jubilation as the Governor inspected the site.
Special Adviser on Project Monitoring, Engr. Phoebe Williams-Bello, revealed that the project is ahead of schedule, with completion expected six months early. She praised the Governor for ensuring compensation for affected property owners and for pushing infrastructural renewal with urgency.
The final destination was the 8.23-kilometre Okpagha–Amufi Road, where the mood was nothing short of festive. Community leaders and residents danced and sang as the Governor arrived, celebrating the completion of a project that now links Ikpoba-Okha and Uhunmwonde LGAs; easing transportation and boosting local commerce.
“For years, this road was our biggest problem,” said one jubilant resident. “Today, we can drive freely. The Governor has restored our confidence in government.”
As the convoy departed, traders, students, and artisans poured into the streets in a carnival-like celebration; waving banners, chanting songs, and expressing gratitude.
For many in Edo State, the anniversary inspection was more than a tour of completed projects; it was a reflection of renewed trust in leadership and a hopeful reminder that development is indeed possible when words are backed by action.
— ABNews Correspondent, Benin City | Tuesday, November 11, 2025
