Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo says he inherited a state bogged down by rots, debts, insecurity and other problems.
Okpebholo stated this on Wednesday in Benin City, the state capital, during his one-year anniversary ceremony.
“I met a state weighed down by rots in all sectors, debt ( local and Foreign) insecurity, and distrust, but I have since begun restoring public confidence by rebuilding institutions and strengthening governance,” he said.
The Governor said he inherited N600billion in local and foreign currency as well as ₦180billion contract liabilities owed contractors by the past administration.
He noted that his administration had reduced the debt, including foreign debt through “prudent management, transparency, and fiscal discipline” under the SHINE Agenda.
“Within one year of my administration, we have created over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs and launched a N1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small businesses, traders, and artisans.”
Okpebholo said he also inherited a deplorable road and neglected communities but has awarded over 28 new roads, totaling over 350 kilometers and constructing two flyovers, Rama Park and Adesuwa road junction in Sapele road.
He recalled that Edo was “almost a war zone” plagued by cult killings, kidnapping, and armed robbery when he assumed% office.
The Governor said his government acted decisively by repealing the weak anti-cultism law, enacting a stronger one, supplying 60 Hilux vans and 400 motorcycles to security agencies, and recruiting 2,500 officers into the Edo State Security Corps.
According to him, his administration has also made a giant stride in health, agriculture, education among other sectors in the state.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, whom he credited with laying the foundation for his achievements.
