Barr. Akhere Praises Gov. Okpebholo’s First Year of Historic Achievements

By Rosemary Okoduwa

As Edo State marks the first anniversary of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration, it is clear that the past year has been one of purposeful leadership, transformative policies, and unprecedented achievements across key sectors, especially education and infrastructure, this was contained in a statement signed by the special adviser on Education, Barr Vincent Akhere.

Governor Okpebholo, alongside his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has demonstrated a deep commitment to reviving the state’s educational landscape, ensuring that quality education is accessible to every child. In just one year, over 68 schools across Edo State have been reconstructed and renovated, providing students with safe, modern, and conducive learning environments.

In a landmark move, the Edo State Bursary and Scholarship Board was established, with a historic ₦1 billion approved as a take-off grant. This initiative guarantees that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to learn due to financial constraints, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to inclusive education.

The Governor’s focus on human capital development is further evident in the recruitment of 5,000 additional teachers, aimed at strengthening the state’s education workforce and improving teaching standards across primary and secondary schools.

Higher education has also witnessed significant gains. Ambrose Alli University’s monthly subvention was increased from ₦41 million to ₦500 million, reviving the institution’s operational capacity and boosting staff and student morale. The construction of new hostels and lecture theatres at AAU, the reopening of Igueben College of Education, and the development of the School of Nursing Sciences at Udomi, Edo Central, exemplify the administration’s commitment to broadening access to quality tertiary education.

Beyond education, the Okpebholo administration has embarked on massive road constructions and rehabilitations across all three senatorial districts, including the landmark gigantic flyover at Ramat Park and another project flagged off at Sapele Road by Adesuwa Junction, strengthening the state’s transportation infrastructure and easing mobility for residents.

According to Barr. Vincent Ose Akhere, Special Adviser to the Governor on Education, these initiatives are “not mere statistics but the embodiment of a Governor who leads with purpose, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility. His passion for education has inspired administrators, teachers, and students to dream bigger and aim higher.”

As Edo State celebrates this milestone, the administration’s achievements serve as a powerful reminder that vision paired with action yields transformation, and that strategic leadership can significantly improve lives, restore confidence in public institutions, and set the state on a path of sustainable development.