… Congratulates Edo-born Prof on emergence as NMA Nat’l President
BENIN CITY – Governor Monday Okpebholo on Tuesday declared that Edo State was on course to becoming a modern city before the expiration of his administration’s first four years, as he inspected several ongoing infrastructural and erosion control projects across Edo South Senatorial District.
The governor, who expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the project sites, said his administration had recorded visible progress in road construction and environmental remediation projects aimed at transforming the state’s urban landscape.
The inspection tour took the governor round major project sites in Benin City, including the construction of the Ekiuwa–University of Benin Road, popularly known as Temboga Road Extension; Oba Erediauwa Road off Upper Mission Road being handled by Heartland Nigeria Limited; the Ikpoba Hill Flyover and erosion control project linking Obaseki Street and Agbo Road into Ikpoba River; as well as the ongoing Adesuwa Flyover project on Sapele Road.
Speaking with journalists during the inspection, Okpebholo pointed to the level of progress recorded at the Adesuwa Flyover, noting that portions of the road had already been asphalted.
“As you can see, we are making progress. A lot has been done in Edo State. This is the Adesuwa Flyover and you can see part of the road already asphalted. In the next few weeks, you will see significant progress on this road,” the governor stated.
He disclosed that the inspection also covered Temboga Road, Uteh Palace Road, Ramat Park and the ongoing stormwater drainage project stretching almost seven kilometres into the Ikpoba River.
“You can see the extent of what we have done in Edo State. We have achieved so much and I believe that by the grace of God, if we continue like this, Edo will become a modern city before the end of our first four years,” he added.
Okpebholo also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as unwavering support for Edo State, saying the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda had played a key role in driving ongoing development projects in the state.
“For me, I am grateful to our President who has been very supportive. Without him, we cannot do what we are doing today. As long as he continues to support us, we will continue to make progress for Edo people and turn Edo into a modern city. We are happy to associate with Mr. President,” he said.
Residents of communities affected by the projects welcomed the governor with jubilation and songs of praise, expressing delight over the rehabilitation of roads previously abandoned and the erosion control interventions being carried out in their areas.
Some members of the state executive council and top government officials accompanied the governor on the inspection tour.
Meanwhile, Governor Okpebholo has congratulated Professor Afekhide Ernest Omoti on his election as the National President of the Nigerian Medical Association, describing his emergence as a deserving recognition of excellence, professionalism and dedicated service to humanity.
In a congratulatory message, Okpebholo said that Prof. Omoti’s election to lead the nation’s foremost medical body was a proud moment for Edo State and a reflection of the quality of professionals produced by the state.
The governor noted that the renowned ophthalmologist had over the years distinguished himself through remarkable contributions to medical practice, research, healthcare administration and advocacy, earning respect both within and outside Nigeria.
He observed that Omoti’s extensive experience in leadership and professional service adequately prepared him for the national assignment.
According to the governor, the new NMA president had previously served as Chairman of the Edo State branch of the association, Chairman of the National Eye Health Committee, and former Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, University of Benin Teaching Hospital chapter.
Okpebholo also commended the Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Benin and Honorary Consultant Ophthalmologist at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital for his contributions to medical research and healthcare development.
The governor noted that Prof. Omoti’s more than 140 scientific publications and participation in international medical conferences underscored his commitment to advancing healthcare delivery and medical knowledge.
Expressing confidence in his capacity to lead the association, Okpebholo said the Edo-born medical expert would deploy his wealth of experience, integrity and leadership qualities in steering the affairs of the NMA over the next two years.
He further assured the new NMA president of the support and goodwill of the Edo State Government and people of the state as he assumes the national responsibility.
Prof. Omoti emerged victorious during the NMA Annual General Congress and Delegates Meeting held in Kano on May 2, 2026, after polling 253 votes to defeat his closest rival, Dr. Nosa Lancy Orhue, who secured 143 votes.