Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as Chief of Staff, with the appointment taking immediate effect.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Fred Itua, made the disclosure through a press Statement on Thursday.
According to the statement the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Umar Ikhilor, who made the announcement described Audu’s new role as integral to advancing Governor Okpebholo’s reform agenda for the state.

The statement reads: “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public, particularly the good people of Edo State, that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has approved the appointment of Hon. Gani Audu as his Chief of Staff. The appointment takes immediate effect.”

Hon. Audu, born on August 18, 1969, brings a rich background in governance and administration to his new role. A graduate of Auchi Polytechnic with an HND (1994), he went on to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from Benson Idahosa University (2011) and an M.Sc. in Intelligence and Global Security from Baze University, Abuja (2024).

Audu’s political experience spans nearly two decades. He served as Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Council from 2004 to 2010, represented Etsako West Constituency 1 in the Edo State House of Assembly from 2015 to 2023, and was the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in the 2020 Edo State elections.

This strategic appointment is expected to bolster the governor’s administrative team and support his vision of transformative governance in Edo State.

**Calls for a New Era of Leadership in Nigeria

The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 election, Peter Obi has congratulated Nigerian-born Kemi Badenoch on her recent election as leader of the United Kingdom’s Conservative Party.
Obi described Badenoch’s rise as an inspiring example of the immense potential within Nigeria’s youth, which he says should serve as a model for leadership transformation in Nigeria.

In a statement shared on his X handle, Obi noted that Badenoch’s success underscores the impact of diverse leadership that values competence, inclusivity, and integrity.
“Her achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when these values are prioritized,” Obi wrote, adding that it contrasts with Nigeria’s current landscape, where younger, qualified leaders are often sidelined for older figures.

Obi urged Nigerians to see Badenoch’s ascent as a call for change in Nigeria’s leadership structure.
“It’s time to set aside outdated practices like tribalism, religious bias, and the ‘my turn’ mindset,” he emphasized, advocating instead for a shift toward leaders who bring fresh perspectives and forward-thinking ideas.

Ending his message on an optimistic note, Obi expressed hope that Nigeria can embrace a new generation of leaders dedicated to positive change.

“Congratulations, Kemi Badenoch. A new Nigeria is indeed possible!” he concluded.

Ministerial nominee and former Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Bianca Odinaka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has emphasized that Nigeria’s potential is boundless if its citizens come together with a commitment to peace.
She stated, “I am here because I believe that if we are able to come together sincerely to commit to serving this nation, focusing on ensuring that we have peace, then the sky is the limit for this country.”
She spoke during her screening at the hallowed chamber of the Senate on Wednesday.

Drawing from her rich experience, Ojukwu highlighted the importance of diplomatic and cultural engagement as key to national growth.
According to her, During her tenure as ambassador, she represented Nigeria on various international platforms, notably building a bridge between Nigeria and Spain.
Explaining further she said her work earned her the prestigious title of Africa’s Most Outstanding Ambassador—a testament to her dedication and exemplary service abroad.

Ojukwu indicated that she also played a vital role on the home front, serving as Secretary of the Truth, Justice, and Peace Commission in Anambra State.
This commission was tasked with addressing the underlying issues of insecurity in southeastern Nigeria, demonstrating her deep commitment to fostering peace and justice at all levels.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s path forward, she noted that the combined efforts of cultural, governmental, and diplomatic organizations could drive transformative change. “There is hope for this country,” she added. “If we sincerely commit to unity and focus on peace, Nigeria’s potential is limitless.”