OKPEBHOLO, DEPUTY CALL FOR UNITY IN EDO

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has assured residents of continued efforts to protect lives and property as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

In an Independence Day message issued on Thursday, Okpebholo said security remained a major responsibility of his administration, noting that farming, trade, investment and other economic activities depend on peace.

The governor said his administration would continue working with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to improve safety across the state.

He also highlighted ongoing efforts in healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and education under the SHINE Agenda.

Okpebholo said several hospitals had been reopened and that more than 600,000 residents had enrolled in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme.

He added that the state was implementing the N75,000 minimum wage and paying workers’ salaries regularly.

The governor urged Edo residents to use the anniversary to renew their commitment to peace and unity, while promising that his administration would continue to listen to citizens.

Similarly, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa urged Nigerians to remain committed to building a united and prosperous country.

Idahosa said Nigeria’s diversity remained one of its strengths and called for greater commitment to peace, justice, democracy and shared prosperity.

He also reaffirmed the Edo Government’s commitment to improving security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and human capital development.