In a bold move to tackle food insecurity and boost agricultural production, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has earmarked over N70 billion for the agricultural sector in the 2025 budget.

The budget, tagged “Renewed Hope for a Rising Edo,” is designed to revive the state’s economy and deliver democratic dividends with a strong focus on agricultural revolution, food production, and infrastructural development.
Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua quoted him while signing the budget into law, to have emphasized his administration’s commitment to people-centered approach, pledging to address food shortages and make Edo food-sufficient.
He stated that the increased allocation reflects the government’s commitment to improving food security and uplifting citizens amid the current economic challenges facing the country.

Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, highlighted the rationale behind increasing the total budget from N605 billion to N675 billion, noting that the decision was driven by the urgent need to address food insecurity and create food sufficiency in the state.

“We carefully reviewed the budget and decided to prioritize agriculture, given the current food challenges in the country,” Hon. Agbebaku said.

He added that the budget also provides funds for infrastructural projects across all constituencies in the state.

Governor Okpebholo’s administration plans to roll out massive mechanized farming across the state’s three senatorial districts by early 2025, a move expected to boost food production, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth.

The Governor expressed optimism that the agricultural revolution would not only meet local food demands but also position Edo as a key exporter of agricultural produce to neighboring states.

With this strategic investment in agriculture, Edo State is set to lead Nigeria’s food security drive, ensuring a sustainable food supply and economic prosperity for its people.

The Edo State Government is setting a new benchmark in maternal and infant care with its plan to upgrade Primary Healthcare Centers (PHCs) across the state’s 18 local government areas. This initiative aims to provide efficient, affordable, and accessible healthcare services, especially for mothers and newborns.

The announcement came as Mrs. Edesili Anani, Administrator of the Office of the First Lady, celebrated Christmas with mothers of newborns and other patients in hospitals across Edo State. Mrs. Anani emphasized the administration’s focus on maternal and child health, which underscores its broader commitment to improving healthcare facilities.

She stated, “The Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration is not only enhancing healthcare facilities but is also placing significant emphasis on maternal and child care. Ensuring that mothers and their babies have access to quality and affordable healthcare is a top priority for this government.”

Governor Monday Okpebholo’s 2025 budget proposal reflects this commitment, with a historic allocation of ₦63.9 billion for healthcare. Of this, ₦1.8 billion is dedicated to expanding health insurance, ensuring that vulnerable groups, including mothers and infants, have access to critical services.

The governor, while presenting the budget, said, “We are reviewing the Health Sector Initiatives to ensure that health is both accessible and affordable. Special attention is being paid to maternal and infant healthcare as we upgrade facilities and expand health insurance coverage.”

This move aligns with global efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates by improving access to quality healthcare services at the grassroots level. By focusing on PHCs, the state government aims to create a healthcare system that caters to the unique needs of women and children while easing the financial burden on families.

Healthcare professionals and stakeholders have lauded the initiative, noting that strengthening PHCs will bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare delivery, ensuring no mother or child is left behind in accessing essential services.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has assured the people of the State that 2025 will be a year of progress and prosperity through practical and good governance.

Governor Okpebholo made this promise during the Nine Lessons and Carol Service organized by the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) on Sunday.
Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua in a statement indicated that the event held in the hallowed chambers of the Assembly and attended by all 24 Honourable Members and staff was hosted by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.

Delivering his goodwill message, the Governor expressed gratitude to God for His blessings on Edo State and prayed for continued unity, love, and progress as the year 2024 comes to an end.

“God has been good to us in the State. As the year is coming to an end, we will not end with the year, but see the end of it and together we shall all enter 2025, praying for more blessings,” Okpebholo declared.

The event featured a lively rendition of Christmas carols by the EDHA Choir and the El-Excess Choral Choir, creating an atmosphere of joy and celebration.
Santa Claus also made an appearance, entertaining the audience and adding a festive touch to the gathering.

The Governor joined the Assembly members and staff in singing melodious tunes, emphasizing unity and optimism for the new year.

The carol service, a significant tradition, underscores the shared commitment of the government and legislature to fostering harmony and a hopeful outlook for the people of Edo State.