Tinubu’s economic reforms essential for nation’s growth

From Tony Osauzo, Benin

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has commended President Bola Tinubu for his economic reforms, policies, and programmes, which he said are reshaping governance and national development.

He said that the Federal Government’s support to states has provided resources for developmental projects, citing the ongoing construction of flyover bridges and other infrastructural works in Edo State.

“These projects are made possible through the support of President Tinubu. I urge all Edo people to continue supporting the President, whose reforms, though tough, are essential for Nigeria’s progress,” Governor Okpebholo said while speaking in Benin City at the weekend during the City Boy Movement programme, an empowerment initiative aimed at supporting over 200 Edo youths.

He disclosed that his administration is delivering genuine progress and development to the three senatorial districts of the state.

“The previous government claimed to have transformed education in Edo State, but our findings show otherwise. We are changing the narrative. Through our ongoing reforms, school enrollment across the state is increasing, and we are upgrading facilities and learning processes so that Edo children can compete with their peers globally,” he added.

Also speaking, the state Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, called on Edo youths to mobilize under the City Boy Movement to ensure that President Tinubu secures the highest number of votes in the South-South in the next election.

“Edo State belongs to President Tinubu because he is a reliable and decisive leader. With the governor’s performance, opposition in Edo State will soon become history. I call on our youths to stand firm, support this movement, and ensure Edo delivers the highest votes for the President,” he said.

In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, lauded Governor Okpebholo for his efforts, describing the event as a celebration of peace and progress in Edo State. “The progress we see today began about a year ago with the emergence of a dynamic governor committed to development,” the Minister said, emphasizing that youths remain at the centre of both national and state agenda.

“Nigeria’s youths are its greatest asset. Through various platforms and skill development programmes, this administration ensures young people are empowered to build better futures for themselves and the nation,” the Minister added. Edo State Commissioner for Education and State Director of the City Boy Movement, Paddy Iyamu, praised President Tinubu for introducing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which he said has ensured that no Edo child is forced out of school due to financial constraints.

He also highlighted the achievements of Governor Okpebholo’s administration within one year, including construction of 68 new schools across the state; sponsorship of five Edo students to study in China for three years; provision of ₦1 billion in student bursaries; empowerment programmes for market women and small businesses, among others.

“Governor Okpebholo has delivered impressive results in infrastructure, education, and job creation, all within a short time,” Dr. Iyamu said.