Take advantage of peaceful environment, infrastructure to invest in Okpella, Monarch urges investors

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Okuokpellagbe of Okpella, Michael E.O. Sado, has called on investors to take advantage of the community’s peaceful environment and growing infrastructure to establish businesses, declaring that Okpella was ready and on the path to greater prosperity.

Speaking during the celebration of his first coronation anniversary and the maiden edition of Okpella Day in Okpella, yesterday, the monarch reflected on the achievements recorded within one year of his reign, noting that the transformation witnessed across the community was a clear indication that Okpella was embracing a new era of development.

“As I look back at what we have done in the space of one year, I can boldly say that Okpella is on the way to a greater future. The takeaway from this occasion is a message of hope. Okpella is investor friendly. Come and invest in Okpella, a land flowing with milk and honey.”

He said he had fulfilled the major promises made during his coronation through the execution of strategic projects aimed at improving infrastructure, security, justice delivery, education, economic empowerment and the welfare of the people.

“The projects were designed to create an enabling environment for sustainable development and attract more investments into the community,” he explained.

Among the projects commissioned were the 1.5-kilometre MCC concrete road, the police area command headquarters, the Okpella vigilante office and Okpella finance limited, while construction work is ongoing on the Iddo internal roads, Imiegiele and Awuyemi concrete roads, as well as a chief magistrate’s court and an area customary court.

The royal father also highlighted initiatives to strengthen security, including the procurement of surveillance drones, training of drone pilots, improved funding for local vigilante personnel and collaboration with security agencies.

He commended major cement companies operating in the community for supporting educational scholarships and employment opportunities, while appealing for more indigenous people to be considered for management positions.

The monarch further disclosed that discussions with major investors and the Benin Electricity Distribution Company had resulted in arrangements for free electricity supply for domestic consumers in the community, describing the initiative as another milestone in improving the living conditions of the people.

He also announced the launch of the Okpella Royal Palace Foundation, alongside empowerment programmes targeted at women.

The anniversary celebration featured cultural displays and homage by various groups to the monarch, while dignitaries joined him in commissioning the completed projects.

He reiterated his commitment to making Okpella a model community driven by peace, development and investment

The colourful ceremony attracted traditional rulers from across Edo State, government officials, corporate leaders, community stakeholders and sons and daughters of Okpella.