Inside Edo
'I pledge to deepen our collaboration in Edo people's interests', Okpebholo felicitates Oba of Benin on Birthday, 9th coronation anniversary
Written By: Emmanuel Ikhenebome
20 Oct 2025 03:18 PM
Benin, Edo – The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to His Royal Majesty, Oba Ewuare II, the Oba of Benin, on the occasion of his birthday and the 9th anniversary of his coronation as the 40th Oba of the Benin Kingdom.
In a statement issued on Monday by his chief press secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described the revered monarch as a beacon of wisdom, cultural preservation, and unity for the people of Edo State and beyond.
The governor lauded Oba Ewuare II for his transformative leadership since ascending the throne on October 20, 2016, noting that the monarch’s reign has been marked by significant strides in promoting peace, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development within the Benin Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
“His Majesty’s wisdom and commitment to the welfare of his people have strengthened the revered institution of the Benin monarchy, fostering unity and progress across Edo State,” Okpebholo said in the statement.
Highlighting the Oba’s role as a custodian of tradition, the governor praised the monarch’s efforts in preserving the rich cultural legacy of the Benin Kingdom, including his advocacy for the repatriation of looted Benin artifacts from foreign museums.
He also commended Oba Ewuare II’s interventions in fostering dialogue and resolving communal disputes, describing him as a “father to all” whose counsel has been invaluable to the state’s governance.
Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office on September 21, 2025, following his victory in the Edo gubernatorial election, used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Benin Palace to advance development initiatives.
“As we celebrate His Majesty’s birthday and coronation milestone, my administration pledges to deepen our collaboration with the Benin Kingdom to promote peace, cultural tourism, and economic empowerment for our people,” he stated.
The governor’s message comes amid statewide celebrations in Benin City, where residents and cultural groups have organized events to honor the Oba.
Traditional dances, prayers, and tributes have filled the air around the ancient palace, with subjects thronging to pay homage to the monarch.
In closing, Governor Okpebholo prayed for the Oba’s continued good health, long life, and divine guidance in leading the Benin Kingdom.
“May His Majesty’s reign continue to bring blessings to our land, and may his years be filled with strength and prosperity,” the governor said.
As Edo government joins the Benin Kingdom in marking this dual celebration, the governor’s message underscores the enduring synergy between the state government and the traditional institution, a partnership seen as pivotal to the state’s stability and growth.
In a statement issued on Monday by his chief press secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo described the revered monarch as a beacon of wisdom, cultural preservation, and unity for the people of Edo State and beyond.
The governor lauded Oba Ewuare II for his transformative leadership since ascending the throne on October 20, 2016, noting that the monarch’s reign has been marked by significant strides in promoting peace, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development within the Benin Kingdom and Nigeria at large.
“His Majesty’s wisdom and commitment to the welfare of his people have strengthened the revered institution of the Benin monarchy, fostering unity and progress across Edo State,” Okpebholo said in the statement.
Highlighting the Oba’s role as a custodian of tradition, the governor praised the monarch’s efforts in preserving the rich cultural legacy of the Benin Kingdom, including his advocacy for the repatriation of looted Benin artifacts from foreign museums.
He also commended Oba Ewuare II’s interventions in fostering dialogue and resolving communal disputes, describing him as a “father to all” whose counsel has been invaluable to the state’s governance.
Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office on September 21, 2025, following his victory in the Edo gubernatorial election, used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Benin Palace to advance development initiatives.
“As we celebrate His Majesty’s birthday and coronation milestone, my administration pledges to deepen our collaboration with the Benin Kingdom to promote peace, cultural tourism, and economic empowerment for our people,” he stated.
The governor’s message comes amid statewide celebrations in Benin City, where residents and cultural groups have organized events to honor the Oba.
Traditional dances, prayers, and tributes have filled the air around the ancient palace, with subjects thronging to pay homage to the monarch.
In closing, Governor Okpebholo prayed for the Oba’s continued good health, long life, and divine guidance in leading the Benin Kingdom.
“May His Majesty’s reign continue to bring blessings to our land, and may his years be filled with strength and prosperity,” the governor said.
As Edo government joins the Benin Kingdom in marking this dual celebration, the governor’s message underscores the enduring synergy between the state government and the traditional institution, a partnership seen as pivotal to the state’s stability and growth.
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