The Edo State Government, in partnership with Policy House International, hosted a policy dialogue at the John Oyegun Public Service Academy on February 21, 2025, to mark Governor Monday Okpebholo’s 100th day in office.
The gathering brought together academics, business leaders, security officials, civil society organizations, and civil servants to discuss infrastructure development, public safety, education, and economic growth, as well as to evaluate governance progress.
Musa Ikhilor, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), emphasized the administration’s dedication to infrastructure development and citizen engagement.
“The government is making massive investments that will ease hardship, accelerate growth, and improve quality of life over the next few years,” he said, adding that continuous dialogue with citizens would help prevent misconceptions about government policies.
Barr. Felix Iserr, Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, emphasized the state’s efforts to promote compressed natural gas (CNG) as a substitute energy source.
In order to ensure that local contractors profit from procurement operations, he urged for a more open local content policy in the oil and gas industry.
“We must diversify our economy beyond a civil service structure into mining, oil and gas, and a vibrant SME sector,” he stated.
Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, stressed the need to invest in technology-driven learning and strengthen education monitoring systems. “We cannot afford to let infrastructure decay; quality education requires both physical and intellectual investment,” he said.
On security, participants commended the amended anti-cultism law and called for greater intelligence-sharing among Edo and neighboring states. Retired CSP Yusuf Haruna underscored the need for community-driven security initiatives. “A collaborative approach involving government, security agencies, and citizens is crucial to tackling crime,” he noted.
Discussions on healthcare emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding free malaria treatment and improving access to primary healthcare. Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, Commissioner for Health, urged state officials to patronize public hospitals to boost confidence in the sector. “Leadership by example is key to strengthening our healthcare system,” he said.
Food security was also discussed at the gathering, and participants praised the increased agricultural investments and the resuscitation of the Igarra Cattle Ranch. Nonetheless, requests for swift action to settle problems between farmers and herders were made.
Taiwo Akerele, Executive Director of Policy House International, called the discussion an essential step in enhancing accountability and government. “Brash policy decisions are required, but Edo State has the potential to rank among Nigeria’s top five economies in the next five years,” he said. During the ceremony, a documentary that highlighted the accomplishments of the administration in its first 100 days was also shown.
