An innovative governance strategy is unfolding in Benin City as Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, sends a clear message that his administration is prepared to work with communities across all ethnic nationalities from all parts of the country. His belief is that this strategy can foster their contribution and build a state where all have both a voice and a stake in its development.
When he appointed Hon. Abdulkarim Kadiri, a respected Hausa-Fulani community leader in Edo State, as Special Adviser on Community Matters shortly after assuming office in November 2024, the decision attracted different interpretations. Some viewed it through the lens of politics.
Besides Kadiri, Governor Okpebholo appointed other non-Edo indigenes. The list includes several special advisers like Prof Philip Afaha, Special Adviser on Policy and Strategy; Dr. Precious Ogboru,Special Adviser on Health Matters and Personal Physician to the Governor, Hon Paul Ezenwa, Special Adviser to the Governor on Electronic Media and Mr. Jackson Monday Isangofon, Special Adviser on New Media and Visual Communications.
For the governor, the appointments represent a broader governance philosophy — a deliberate effort to ensure that every resident who contributes to the State’s progress has a place in government. The appointments also mark a significant departure from the aged practice where minority groups and non-indigenous communities often have limited representation in government structures. Governor Okpebholo has simply created a direct channel for engagement, dialogue, and collaboration with a community that has played an important role in the state’s economic and social development.
The decision reflects a commitment to inclusion, unity, and partnership. It demonstrates the governor’s belief that Edo State’s growth is built not by one ethnic group alone but through the combined efforts of all residents, regardless of their place of origin.
Just now, the governor has amplified this philosophy of inclusive governance by approving the nomination of Mr. Martin Anayochukwu Oli as Commissioner-Designate in the state. A businessman and community leader from Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, his nomination further highlights Governor Okpebholo’s emphasis on competence, capacity, and service delivery in select for key government responsibilities.
Of the truth together, these appointments represent more than political decisions. Even observers have since realised that they reflect a governance model seeking to expand participation and create a government that accommodates diverse experiences, perspectives, and contributions.
In a state like Edo, inclusive governance carries significant implications. Non-indigenous communities contribute immensely to the state’s economy through commerce, transportation, agriculture, logistics, and other sectors. Recognising their role through representation and appointments can strengthen cooperation, improve communication, and promote a stronger sense of belonging.
Beyond representation, the strategy also supports social stability. Edo, like many Nigerian states, has experienced moments of tension between communities. Giving different groups a voice within the government can encourage dialogue, strengthen trust, and create a more collaborative approach to addressing challenges.
All this does mean that the political dimension can not also be ignored. Edo remains a politically competitive state with a diverse population. Building relationships across ethnic and community lines can help broaden political support and counter perceptions that government appointments should be limited to certain groups or interests.
More importantly, the appointments project an image of a government that understands the realities of modern governance — where leadership requires the ability to unite people, manage diversity, and harness the talents of all residents.
Kadiri’s role is particularly significant because the Hausa-Fulani community has remained a visible part of Edo’s economic landscape. Through trading, livestock business, transportation, and other enterprises, members of the community have contributed to the state’s development. His appointment provides an avenue for stronger engagement between the government and the community.
Similarly, Oli’s nomination reflects the governor’s willingness to draw from broader sources of experience and expertise. His background as a businessman and community-oriented leader is expected to bring additional perspectives to government, especially in areas connected to economic empowerment, investment, and grassroots development.
Government appointments in Nigeria have often been shaped by considerations of ethnicity, political loyalty, and geographical balance. While those factors remain part of governance realities, Governor Okpebholo is seeking to place increased emphasis on inclusion and the ability of appointees to contribute meaningfully to development.
The underlying message is that belonging to Edo State is not defined only by ancestry but also by commitment, contribution, and willingness to support the state’s growth.
By extending opportunities to individuals from different backgrounds, Governor Okpebholo is reinforcing the idea that Edo State is a shared project. Every community that contributes to its economy, security, and social progress has a role in shaping its future.
As the Governor continues to implement his policies, the appointments of non-indigenes remain defining examples of his approach to governance — one that is all inclusive, built around collaboration, broader participation and recognition of diversity as a strength.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Ebojele, PhD in public administration, is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
