Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced a sweeping recruitment initiative to bring a new wave of youths into the state civil service, a move he described as a cornerstone in his mission to combat unemployment and accelerate Edo’s development.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress campaign rally in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, ahead of the August 16, 2025, Edo Central Senatorial by-election, Okpebholo said his passion to serve stems from a deep love for his people and an unwavering commitment to building a better future.
Beyond job creation, the governor revealed an ambitious development drive for Edo Central, including the construction of an ultra-modern market in Irrua, the dualisation of the Ekpoma–Ubiaja road, and the extension of a 33kV power line to permanently tackle the area’s erratic electricity supply.
He also reflected on his achievements as a senator, recalling how he facilitated the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin–Auchi–Okene road with the support of President Bola Tinubu, and directed immediate renovation of Eguare-Ugbegun Primary School in Ward 10.
“If I do not develop my home, no one else will,” Okpebholo told the crowd, expressing gratitude to Irrua residents for their steadfast support during his senatorial and governorship victories. “You resisted rigging, and we won resoundingly. My coming here is to thank you and assure you that I am ready to serve and work for our people.”
Unveiling his new civil service recruitment plan, the governor disclosed that he had instructed the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, to begin the process without delay.
“We are going to massively employ our young people,” he affirmed. “Creating opportunities for our youths is the greatest investment we can make for the future of Edo.”
The rally drew top APC figures, including Ikhilor, Edo Central Senatorial leader, Cecil Isekhaigbe, APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh, and APC senatorial candidate, Joseph Ikpea, as part of a broader mobilisation push ahead of the senatorial poll.
