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Edo Governor Okpebholo pledges to revive indigenous language education across schools.
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Announces massive education, health, and road rehabilitation projects.
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Says 50 CNG buses ordered and 2,000 security personnel trained to boost safety.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced plans to reintroduce the teaching of Edo languages in public schools as part of efforts to preserve the state’s cultural identity and strengthen indigenous education.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, on Thursday, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting cultural heritage, inclusive learning, and sustainable development across the state.
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Governor Okpebholo made the announcement during a courtesy visit by the Esan Okpa Initiative, led by Mr. Mathew Egbadon, to the Government House in Benin City.
“We must start from home. We will reintroduce the teaching of Edo languages in our school system. Let every tribe begin to learn and speak their language so that no language goes into extinction,” the governor declared.
He directed the Ministry of Education to intensify school rehabilitation, noting that his government would continue to provide seats, desks, boreholes, toilets, and solar lighting in schools.
“Our children must see and touch technology in real time,” he added, revealing plans to introduce a school access programme for hands-on computer education.
READ ALSO: Two Dead, Five Injured In Edo Road Crash As Governor Okpebholo Rescues Victims
Infrastructure and Transportation Development
Governor Okpebholo disclosed that major road projects were underway across the state, including the Ekpoma–Uromi–Ubiaja Road, where compensation was already being paid to affected property owners.
He also revealed that the government had ordered 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to enhance transportation across Edo’s three senatorial districts.
Health and Security Reforms
On healthcare, the governor announced that 65 primary healthcare centres had been completed or rehabilitated to improve access in rural communities.
He added that over 2,000 security personnel had been trained and placed on the government payroll, while a new mobile police barracks was being constructed in the central part of the state.
“We are decentralising security operations and may engage local hunters to boost community safety,” Okpebholo said.
Education and Legacy Projects
Governor Okpebholo highlighted his administration’s plan to revive Ambrose Alli University, describing its restoration as “a victory for the people.”
“My concern is legacy—what we will leave behind for our people. That is the true essence of leadership,” he stated.
In less than one year in office, the governor said his administration had employed 5,000 teachers, rehabilitated schools, and embarked on landmark projects, including the construction of the first bridge at Ramat Park.
In his remarks, Mr. Mathew Egbadon, President of the Esan Okpa Initiative, lauded Okpebholo’s leadership and his commitment to the reintroduction of indigenous language education, noting that it aligns with the 2022 National Language Policy.
“Your Excellency, we have seen your work. New roads are being built, schools are being rehabilitated, and over 4,000 teachers have been regularised. You have returned Edo to the national development map,” Egbadon said.
He also urged the state government to establish agro-based industries in Esanland and invest in independent power generation to drive economic growth.
