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The newly sworn-in Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has outlined a five-point agenda focusing on improving healthcare, ensuring the security of lives and property, advancing education, fostering economic growth, and enhancing infrastructure development.

Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, were sworn in on Tuesday, succeeding Godwin Obaseki and his court-reinstated deputy, Philip Shuaibu.

The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, administered the oaths of office and allegiance during the ceremony at the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

In their inaugural addresses, Okpebholo and Idahosa pledged to uphold the constitution, adhere to its provisions, and prioritize the welfare and development of the state’s citizens.

The governor further assured citizens he would not betray the trust reposed in him through their votes. Governor Okpebholo emphasised his administration’s commitment to rapid development and economic growth.

He expressed gratitude for the people’s overwhelming trust and promised not to let them down.

“Edo shall rise again. My administration is committed to fixing the roads across our dear state to make them motorable once more. We will ensure that our communities currently without electricity are connected to the national grid and illuminated,” he said.

The governor stressed his commitment to empowering small business owners to drive socio-economic growth. He assured the youth of the state that they would not be neglected, promising targeted initiatives to tackle unemployment.

“We will offer soft loans to market women to enhance their businesses,” he stated.

He also pledged a brighter future for civil servants and the judiciary, vowing to uphold greater respect for traditional institutions.