Benin, Edo – The Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo on Thursday celebrated his administration’s first anniversary with a landmark address, declaring that his government has “restored hope, rebuilt institutions, and renewed confidence” in governance.

Speaking at a grand event in Benin City, Okpebholo highlighted decisive actions that transformed Edo from a state plagued by insecurity, debt, and decay into one of measurable progress.

On security, he revealed that over 300 cult-related killings rocked the state in 2024.

His response: repeal of a weak anti-cultism law, enactment of a stronger one, and equipping forces with 60 Hilux vans, 400 motorcycles, and 2,500 new security corps recruits.

“Edo is now safer and no longer a criminal sanctuary,” he declared.

In healthcare, the governor launched construction of Primary Health Centres in all 18 local government areas, upgraded diagnostic facilities, and began a 100-bed Specialist Hospital in Udomi.

Infrastructure saw 28 road projects covering 255 km and two simultaneous flyovers the first in Edo’s history at Ramat Park and Adesuwa-Sapele Road.

Agriculture received a massive boost, with the budget soaring from ₦4.5 billion to over ₦70 billion.

Over 400 hectares have been cultivated, with harvesting underway.

Education gained 5,000 new permanent teachers, 63 renovated schools, and a 12-fold increase in Ambrose Alli University’s monthly subvention from ₦41 million to ₦500 million.

Facing ₦600 billion in inherited debt, the administration launched a ₦1 billion interest-free loan for traders, created over 10,000 jobs, and restored fiscal transparency.

Okpebholo thanked President Bola Tinubu for guidance and support, while goodwill messages from Senator Adams Oshiomhole and other leaders praised his “practical governance.”

Concluding with optimism, the governor told Edo youths: “A New Edo has risen built on faith, service, and accountability.”

The event ended with widespread acclaim for a year of courage, reform, and renewal.