Inside Edo
Idahosa: ‘We Inherited Collapsed Systems, But We’re Not Deterred’
Written By: Emmanuel Ikhenebome
13 Nov 2025 05:30 AM
Benin, Edo – On the first anniversary of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa has delivered a candid assessment of Edo State’s challenges, acknowledging deep-rooted problems in poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and crumbling infrastructure, many of which, he said, had “collapsed before we assumed office.”
Speaking at the anniversary celebration in Benin City, Idahosa stressed that while the administration has made strides in security, education, healthcare, and agriculture, the scale of inherited decay remains a formidable hurdle.
“We are mindful of the issues of poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and the deficit in road and other critical infrastructure many of which had collapsed before we assumed office. Yet, we are not deterred,” Idahosa declared.
He highlighted strategic security interventions, intelligence coordination, and strong political will as key drivers behind improved safety across the state, even as pockets of unrest persist.
On infrastructure, the deputy governor admitted that roads, hospitals, and schools in several local government areas were in near-total disrepair when the administration took over on 13 November 2024.
The administration has prioritized transparency and partnerships with the private sector and development agencies to mobilize resources.
Efforts to ease doing business and attract investment are also underway, with early reforms aimed at cutting red tape and restoring investor confidence.
Idahosa paid tribute to traditional rulers, led by the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, as well as religious leaders, civil servants, and frontline workers, urging sustained commitment to the state’s renewal.
Despite the challenges, the tone was one of resolve: “In 365 days, we are building a new Edo.”
As the administration enters its second year, residents will be watching closely to see whether bold promises translate into tangible relief from poverty, joblessness, and the daily struggle of navigating broken roads and fragile public services.
Speaking at the anniversary celebration in Benin City, Idahosa stressed that while the administration has made strides in security, education, healthcare, and agriculture, the scale of inherited decay remains a formidable hurdle.
“We are mindful of the issues of poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and the deficit in road and other critical infrastructure many of which had collapsed before we assumed office. Yet, we are not deterred,” Idahosa declared.
He highlighted strategic security interventions, intelligence coordination, and strong political will as key drivers behind improved safety across the state, even as pockets of unrest persist.
On infrastructure, the deputy governor admitted that roads, hospitals, and schools in several local government areas were in near-total disrepair when the administration took over on 13 November 2024.
The administration has prioritized transparency and partnerships with the private sector and development agencies to mobilize resources.
Efforts to ease doing business and attract investment are also underway, with early reforms aimed at cutting red tape and restoring investor confidence.
Idahosa paid tribute to traditional rulers, led by the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Ewuare II, as well as religious leaders, civil servants, and frontline workers, urging sustained commitment to the state’s renewal.
Despite the challenges, the tone was one of resolve: “In 365 days, we are building a new Edo.”
As the administration enters its second year, residents will be watching closely to see whether bold promises translate into tangible relief from poverty, joblessness, and the daily struggle of navigating broken roads and fragile public services.
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