Okpebholo Strengthens Ties with Traditional Rulers, highlights efforts to economic growth

Benin, Edo — Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has called for deeper collaboration with traditional rulers across the state’s 18 local government areas to tackle insecurity and criminal activities.

The governor in a statement issued by his special adviser on public affairs and media, Haruna Braimoh described traditional rulers as critical stakeholders with strong grassroots connections, positioning them as key partners in intelligence gathering, community vigilance, and preventing crime.

He urged royal fathers to work closely with security agencies and ensure no safe havens exist for criminals in their domains.

Okpebholo also appealed to traditional institutions to discourage youth involvement in criminality, addressing both immediate threats and root causes of insecurity. This initiative forms part of his administration’s broader strategy, which includes investments in security infrastructure and partnerships with law enforcement.

In a related statement, Braimoh highlighted the administration’s efforts to build sustainable economic growth through targeted policies in infrastructure, agriculture, education, healthcare, and enterprise development.

He noted that the governor has prioritized agricultural mechanization and industrialization to boost food security, create jobs, and diversify the economy as modern farming practices and agro-processing initiatives aim to enhance productivity across the value chain.

The administration is supporting businesses with interest-free loans for small and medium-scale traders, alongside participation in the ₦75 billion single-digit loan scheme with the Bank of Industry at a 9% annual interest rate.

These measures seek to stimulate entrepreneurship and strengthen the local economy.

On healthcare, Braimoh pointed to the recruitment of qualified personnel to improve service delivery and human capital.

In education, he referenced the governor’s recent recognition as the Best Governor in Nigeria on Education (New Telegraph Governor of the Year 2025 in Education) as validation of investments in quality learning and infrastructure.

“Governor Monday Okpebholo is laying a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth through deliberate policies,” Braimoh stated.

He added that these people-oriented initiatives are positioning Edo State as a hub for investment, innovation, and inclusive prosperity.

The governor’s approach emphasizes a united front involving government, traditional institutions, security agencies, and citizens to foster lasting peace and economic stability in Edo State, even as traditional rulers have reportedly assured continued support for these efforts.