Edo: Okpebholo swears in Osifo as Education Commissioner

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has sworn in Dr Washington Osifo as Commissioner for Education.

Osifo, a former commissioner for education, had resigned from the cabinet to pursue his political ambition. He was recently renominated and subsequently screened and cleared by the State House of Assembly.

His return to the ministry followed the resignation of the former commissioner for education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, who also stepped down to pursue his ambition to represent his constituency in the House of Representatives.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Okpebholo said Osifo was appointed based on his credibility and capacity to deliver on the responsibilities assigned to him.

He stressed that there was still much to be done in the education sector and urged the new commissioner to focus on the development of all levels of education in the state.

“Let me congratulate you, honourable commissioner. You were part of us a few months ago and now you are back as Commissioner for Education. We believe you will do well in that ministry. That was why we appointed you to take charge of the ministry.

“There is a lot to be done in the educational system. We want you to please develop the educational system for Edo people. I want you to follow up and develop all aspects of education — primary, secondary and tertiary education systems in Edo State. We want to record success under your watch”, the governor said.

The swearing-in ceremony also featured Mr Aghedo Oscar Onaiwu, who was sworn in as a member of the Edo State Local Government Service Commission.

Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in appointees, Osifo pledged his loyalty to Okpebholo and promised to contribute his best towards the development of the education sector.

“This is my second time in a space of two years being sworn-in as commissioner. I was here as commissioner in 2025 and now here again in 2026.

“I do not take this for granted, Your Excellency. I will do my best as commissioner. Nobody lobbied you to appoint me as commissioner, but it was your choice.

“For me, loyalty to your ideas, objectives and noble aspirations for Edo people will also be my core objective. My loyalty is to you as governor and head of government.

“Through my job and diligence, my loyalty will be defined. We will follow your footsteps and deliver for Edo people,” Osifo said.