By Imelda Osayande
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo, has assured residents of the state of renewed hope, stronger security, and accelerated development in 2026.
The governor stated this in his New Year message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebojele Patrick on Thursday in Benin.
Okpebholo described 2026 as a year of “Hope and Growth” for the state.
The Governor also thanked God for sustaining Edo state through 2025, which marked his administration’s first year in office, noting steady progress despite the challenges inherited.
He recalled that upon taking office, the state had faced insecurity, poor roads, weak institutions, and low public trust.
The added that with the support of the Edo people, the story is changing for the better,
“We thank the Almighty God for keeping us through 2025 and bringing us safely into 2026.
“It has been a remarkable first year in office with successes recorded, challenges encountered, and lessons learned,” the Governor said.
He said his administration, under the SHINE Agenda, has made measurable progress in security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, economic development, and job creation.
The governor noted that governance under his watch is driven by practical action, not promises.
Okpbeholo, who acknowledged that challenges still remain, assured residents that his government is tackling them head-on.
“The challenges we inherited have not disappeared overnight. Our roads still need massive attention, food security and job creation require more efforts, and remnants of violent thugs and cult groups still exist in some areas.
“But we are confronting them decisively,” he said.
He disclosed that since November 2024, his administration has intensified the fight against crime by identifying criminal elements, strengthening law enforcement, supporting lawful arrests, and demolishing criminal hideouts across the state.
“We will not allow kidnapping or cult-related violence to thrive in Edo.
“In 2026, we are deploying stronger security strategies and technology to keep our people safe,” he said.
The governor announced the introduction of a dedicated security hotline, enabling citizens to report criminal activities in real-time, as part of new security measures.
“2026 is the Year of Hope and Growth because we must never give up on Edo’s future, and growth because progress must be felt in every sector and in every part of the state,” he said.
The governor pledged that no community would be left behind and no citizen ignored as his administration builds on the gains of the past year.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, for his support, and commended political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies, civil society groups, and the people of Edo for their cooperation.
“As we begin this New Year, let us choose peace over violence, hard work over shortcuts, and hope over fear,” he said.
The Governor wished all Edo residents a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
(NAN)
