The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola has applauded the contributions of women to the development of the Nigerian Maritime industry.
In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day with the theme “Give to Gain”, Dr Mobereola celebrated the strength, expertise and invaluable contributions of women to the sector emphasising that the industry has gained progress, innovation and sustainable growth through their efforts.
According to him “I celebrate your strength, expertise, and invaluable contributions to our maritime industry.
“The theme #GiveToGain reflects your daily impact. Through your professionalism, leadership, and resilience across sea-going, regulatory, technical, and administrative roles, you give excellence and our sector gains progress, innovation, and sustainable growth.”
The DG further commended the dedication of women in the industry and reaffirmed his commitment to “a maritime industry where every woman is empowered to lead and thrive”.
International Women’s Day is a global observance that seeks to draw attention to challenges faced by women and the need to ensure gender equity. This year’s theme “Give to Gain”, focuses on investing in women through resources, education, and mentorship to create a stronger, more equitable society highlighting the fact that empowering women brings collective benefits; economies, communities, and workplaces all grow when women thrive.
IWD: Agency Extols Women’s Contribution To Maritime Dev.
PLASU To Engage Private Investigators To Probe Lecturers Alleged Maltreatment Of Students
By Ayodele Oni
The Management of Plateau State University (PLASU) has promised to involve private investigators to look into an alleged maltreatment of some students during examination.
The University was responding to a viral video showing some students kneeling and moving on their knees during an examination period, an incident that stirred allegations that a lecturer forced them to kneel for arriving late.
The video, widely circulated on Facebook, led to claims that a lecturer, identified as Felix Masok, allegedly punished students by making them kneel after they arrived late for an examination.
In an official statement released by the university on their website, and signed by Masara Kim, acting Public Relations Officer, PLASU denied that the students were forced to kneel as a form of punishment.
According to the statement, the incident occurred on February 5, 2026, more than 30 minutes after the scheduled General Studies (GST) examination had ended at about 3:30 p.m.
The university explained that a group of students, who arrived at the venue after the examination had already been concluded, reportedly chose to kneel on their own as a plea for mercy so they could be allowed to sit for the test.
Management pointed out that the supervising official, after seeing the students’ display of remorse, intervened and asked them to stand up, eventually granting them exceptional permission to take the examination despite their lateness.
PLASU noted that its Student Handbook strictly prohibits entry into the examination hall 30 minutes after the start of an exam, adding that allowing the students to write the test technically bypassed the institution’s established rules.
While acknowledging the backlash generated by the viral video, the university expressed concern about what it described as a “social media trial”, noting that no formal complaint had been submitted through official channels such as the university management or the Student Union Government (SUG) before the video surfaced online.
The institution further announced that the independent investigators would also examine the incident and determine whether any examination regulations were violated by those involved.
The statement reads, “The Management of Plateau State University (PLASU) is aware of a video circulating on social media regarding the alleged maltreatment of students during the recently concluded first-semester examinations.
“We wish to categorically state our unwavering commitment to the fundamental human rights and dignity of every member of our university community.
“Following a preliminary internal review, the University provides the following clarifications regarding the events of February 5, 2026, which coincided with a world press conference by the Vice Chancellor and a campus tour by invited reporters who witnessed the early part of the examination:
“The incident occurred after 4:00 PM, more than 30 minutes after the official conclusion of the General Studies (GST) examinations, which ended at 3:30 PM.
“Evidence suggests that a group of students who arrived late to the venue — more than 30 minutes after the exams were concluded — voluntarily chose to kneel and approach the hall as a collective plea for mercy. Their intent was to appeal for late entry into the examination.
“Contrary to reports of ‘punishment,’ the supervising official—acted out of compassion. Upon seeing the students’ public display of remorse, he intervened, directed them to stand, and granted them exceptional permission to sit for the exam despite their late arrival.
“While the University commends the spirit of “magnanimity” shown by the official to ensure students did not miss their academic requirements, it is important to note that the Student Handbook (Section 6.4, No. 2 & 3) strictly prohibits entry into an examination hall 30 minutes after commencement.
“By allowing these students entry, both the staff and the students technically bypassed established protocols.
“While this was done to mitigate the stress of overwhelmed resources at the Computer-Based Test (CBT) center, the University maintains that regulations exist to ensure order and fairness.
PLASU views the ‘social media trial’ and the resulting backlash with concern.
“While we respect the public’s right to free expression, the University has established internal channels for grievances, including formal petitions to Management or the Student Union Government (SUG).
“To date, no formal complaint was lodged through these official channels before the video was shared online.
“To ensure absolute transparency and fairness, the University will engage independent investigators to probe the incident further.
“We will examine the adherence to examination regulations by all parties involved to determine if further administrative action is required.
“In addition, management is actively working to address the resource constraints that contribute to overcrowding at examination centers, contributing to students’ lateness as in the case under review.
“We appeal to the student body, parents, and the general public to remain calm and allow the University to conclude its findings.
“PLASU remains a sanctuary for learning and character building, and we will not allow its reputation to be unfairly maligned by incomplete narrative.”
Police Detains Ebonyi APC Publicity Secretary, Ogbuatu, Over Kidnap, Murder Of Monarch
By Ayodele Oni
Governor Francis Nwifuru expresses shock over the alleged involvement of the APC Chieftain
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in Ebonyi state, who volunteered his bank account to suspected bandits, into which money collected as ransom in the abduction of a monarch, is helping police to track the suspects.
The APC member, Mr Simbad Ogbuatu, who is the Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, is being alleged of his involvement in the kidnapping and killing of the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike community in Ikwo Local Government Area, Chief Francis Igwe.
Governor Francis Nwifuru disclosed this during a condolence visit to the family of the late monarch.
Igwe, who is the father of a former Deputy Governor of the state, Kelechi Igwe, was abducted by suspected kidnappers and later died in their custody after reportedly sustaining injuries from physical assault.
According to the governor, Ogbuatu came under investigation after security agencies traced a bank account allegedly used in the ransom negotiations to him.
Nwifuru revealed that the information linking the APC official to the case first came to his attention during a party meeting.
“During our party meeting, somebody whispered to me that the money paid was linked to the publicity secretary of the APC. I asked, ‘What?’
“They said they were still investigating it, but wanted to know if they should go ahead with his arrest. I approved,” the governor said.
He added that although he initially doubted the claim, he directed security operatives to invite the suspect for questioning.
According to the governor, Ogbuatu allegedly admitted during interrogation that he provided his bank account details after being contacted by one of the suspects, who was said to be his personal assistant.
The governor explained that the APC spokesman claimed he provided the account without knowing it would be used for ransom payment, adding that he initially told investigators the funds expected in the account were related to proceeds from a land transaction.
“He said one of his boys, his personal assistant, called him to give an account, and he gave the account the assistant asked him to give.
“Later, he said the account was for money from a land sale of about N200 million.”
Nwifuru further disclosed that security operatives later used the suspect’s phone to communicate with members of the alleged kidnap gang in an effort to track them down.
He said one of the suspects eventually called the phone and accused Ogbuatu of collecting ransom money without sharing it with the group.
According to the governor, the police instructed Ogbuatu on what to say during the conversation to lure the suspects to a meeting point.
Security operatives subsequently laid an ambush and arrested members of the gang who reportedly arrived at the location expecting to collect their share of the ransom.
Nwifuru further revealed that the suspects later told investigators that they contacted Ogbuatu through one of their members who worked as his personal assistant.
Security agencies, he added, were continuing investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing of the monarch and the alleged involvement of those linked to the crime.
PSC Set To Elevate Lagos, FCT Police Commissioners, Moshood, Dantawaye, 14 Others To AIGs
By Ayodele Oni
Promotion interview set for Tuesday
The Police Service Commission, (PSC), is set to fill vacancies of seven Assistant Inspector General of Police, (AIGs) elevated last week to the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs).
It has announced a promotion examination for senior officers, in a move aimed at filling vacancies created by the recent retirement of several senior officers in the Nigeria Police Force.
Already, a promotion examination and interactive session for senior officers to Assistant Inspectors General (AIGs) is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Police Service Commission Corporate Headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.
According to a police wireless communication circulated by NIGPOL FORSEC Abuja to commands and departments nationwide, the session is set to begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. at the Chairman’s Conference Room, 6th Floor.
Officers are required to report by 7:00 a.m. for briefing and conveyance to the venue.
The list of officers instructed to attend includes: Christopher Ado Emmanuel, Joseph Eribo, Miller Gajere Dantawaye, Henry Ifeanyi Uche, Olanrewaju Peter Ogunlowo, Mohammed Dahiru (FDC), Dankombo Faling Morris, Bello Shehu, Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, Ahmed Musa, Olohundare Moshood, Jimoh Simeon, Udofia Akpanudom (FDC), and Haruna Olufemi.
Moshood is the Lagos State Commissioner of Police. He officially assumed office in February 2025 as the 41st Commissioner of Police in the state, taking over from CP Olanrewaju Ishola, who was redeployed to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Dantawaye is the 34th Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, assuming duty in October 2025.
The communication also detailed dress code and professional standards for the interview.
Officers are required to wear conventional attire, including black jackets, berets, and carry swagger canes.
Additionally, they must adhere to professional conduct during the examination, which covers law, local acts, and professional studies.
For operational support, the Force directed 12 neatly turned-out, armed officers from MOPOL to provide escort duties.
The transport department has been directed to provide serviceable vehicles, including two Hilux vans, for the conveyance of the senior officers to and from the interview venue.
Vehicles are to be on standby at the FHQ Parade Ground by 6:00 a.m.
The directive emphasised that all commands treat the operation as “very important” to ensure the smooth conduct of the promotion interviews.
Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that the Police Service Commission (PSC) had promoted seven AIGs to the rank of Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) .
The development followed the exit of senior police officers who served under the immediate past Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
In a statement released on Friday, PSC spokesperson Torty Kalu said the promotions were based on merit, seniority, service records and performance in both written and oral examinations conducted at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
According to the statement, the newly promoted officers include Zachariah Fera Achinyan, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 4, Makurdi; Zango Ibrahim Baba, formerly AIG, Department of Logistics and Supply; Isyaku Mohammed, formerly AIG, Armament, Force Headquarters, Abuja; and Margaret Agebe Ochalla, formerly AIG, FCID Annex, Lagos.
Others elevated are Mohammed Abdul Sulaiman, formerly AIG, Police Accounts and Budget at Force Headquarters; Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 15, Maiduguri; and Umar Shehu Nadada, formerly AIG in charge of Zone 14, Katsina.
The commission stated that the promotions were necessary to strengthen the leadership structure of the police force.
Gov Fintiri Imposes Curfew On Communities After Deadly Clash
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State has imposed curfew on Lamurde Local Government Area to prevent further communal clash between two communities in the state.
The two communities, Chobo and Bachaman have engaged in bloody clashes recently resulting in the death of at least 30 persons, according to sources privy to the issue.
The state Police Command spokesman, Suleiman Nguroje, Superintendent of Police, on Sunday confirmed the clash to journalists but refused to provide further details on the number of casualties.
The state government, however, said it cannot continue to fold its hands while lives and properties are being lost, warning those fomenting troubles in the two communities to stop or face the wrath of the law.
The government imposed the curfew in a statement signed on Sunday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humeashi Wonosikou, who said the governor took the decision following the renewed clashes between the two communities.
“Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has imposed a 24-hour curfew on Lamurde Local Government Area with immediate effect,” the governor’s spokesman said in the statement.
“This follows renewed violent attacks and breach of peace in some communities within the area.
“Government views these disturbances as unacceptable and has directed security agencies to enforce the curfew strictly.”
Governor Fintiri warned trouble makers on both sides not to test his resolve on the issue, saying he will not hesitate to bring down the full force of the law on those who flout his order, adding that the government was committed to maintaining peace and order in the state.
“The curfew is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice. Governor Fintiri has also directed security agencies to enforce the curfew and maintain law and order in the area.”
“The government is committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring the safety of all citizens,” the statement added.
PDP: Tension As Appeal Court Rules On Leadership Crisis Today; Govs Call For Calm
The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Governors Forum, the umbrella body of governors elected on the platform of the main opposition party in the country, has called on its supporters to remain calm as the Court of Appeal is set to rule on ledarship crisis rocking the party.
There are only two governors elected on the party’s platform, Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi state, who is the Chairman of the Forum, after a flurry of defections of some of its governors to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC due to the protracted leadership tussle that has lasted for months.
Not a few watching the PDP insist that the Court of Appeal judgment will determine the future of Nigeria’s former ruling party, as serious tension has mounted among members on what will be the direction of the court, which is expected to rule on the leadership problem in few hours.
There’s are two factions in the party laying claim to its leadership, one led by Governor Makinde of Oyo state and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.
The Forum said whatever the outcome of the Appellate court judgment on the issue, the party is ready to move forward particularly as it prepares for the 2027 election.
The PDP-GF made this known in a statement signed on Sunday in Abuja, the nation’s capital by Director General of the Forum, Dr Emmanuel Agbo, who said the country is on the threshold of history , urging the justiciary, the custodian of rule of law and justice in the country, to do the right thing by ensuring ‘fairness and impartiality’ in its ruling.
According to the Forum, the party will meet after the judgment to chart the way for the party ahead next years’ election, calling on the members to continue to have faith in the party, saying the PDP will continue to play its role as the voice of Nigerians.
“We stand at a defining moment for our democracy. The judiciary, as the custodian of justice, carries the weight of ensuring fairness, impartiality, and the preservation of national stability,” the Forum said.
“Whatever the decision may be, the PDP reaffirms its respect for the judicial process and its commitment to peace.
“We urge our members, supporters, and indeed all Nigerians to remain calm and disciplined in their reactions to the ruling. Our collective response must reflect maturity and a deep respect for the rule of law.
“We call on all party members and leaders to show maximum restraint, remain calm and be law-abiding before, during and after the judgment as leadership will meet immediately to review the judgment and chart the necessary post-judgment line of action.
The Forum stressed that democracy thrives on diversity of ideas and competition, urging members who are planning to contest under the party’s platform not to lose faith yet.
“Democracy thrives on diversity of voices, competition of ideas, and the ability of citizens to choose from credible alternatives.
“We therefore call on members aspiring to contest the 2027 general elections to have faith in the party’s platform.
“The PDP has always been a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic journey. Our party has governed, opposed, and contributed to the strengthening of institutions that protect the rights of citizens.
“Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the PDP remains resolute in its mission to provide Nigerians with a strong, credible, and people-centred alternative.
“No ruling can erase the will of Nigerians for a fair and competitive political system. We are prepared to participate fully in the democratic process, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and respected.”
Meanwhile, close watchers of the party insist that the Court of Appeal ruling on the issue may be challenged at the Supreme Court, the nation’s apex court by opposing side who is not satisfied with today’s outcome.
Continued Detention Of El-Rufai Is Abuse Of State Power: Group Berates FG
By Suleiman Anyalewechi
An advocacy group, the Coalition of Political Action Committee COPAC, has condemned the continued detention without trial of former Governor of Kaduna state Malam Nasir El-Rufai by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC.
This is as the group urged the Federal Government and its agencies to either file charges against El-Rufai or set him free if they don’t have anything against him.
The Source reports that El-Rufai, a prominent figure within the opposition Coalition platform, the African Democratic Congress, ADC has been in custody since February 16, 2026 when he voluntarily honoured an invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC.
He has been in the custody of the ICPC since Wednesday February 18, when he was granted bail by the EFCC.
The former Kaduna State Governor is being investigated by multiple agencies including the Department of State Service, DSS, over alleged corruption practices, including money laundering and diversion of public funds ,as well as security related issues.
However, his continued detention by the ICPC after the expiry of a 14-day remand order from Gwari Abuja Magistrate court on Friday, March 6, 2026 has continued to elicit widespread indignation and condemnation from across the country.
In a statement on Sunday, March 8, 2026, by its Convener, Aminu Datti Ahmed, the COPAC warned that keeping El-Rufai in detention beyond the expired remand order is tantamount to a gross violation of his fundamental human rights ,as well as a direct affront to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
According to the civil society group, the court order was only granted to allow the anti-corruption Commission the chance to conclude its investigations, within a clearly stipulated time frame.
“Now that the window has closed, the authorities must either take the matter to court or release the detainee.
“This is not about El-Rufai. This is about the law being a level playing field. The rule of law must never become a selective weapon used against those who fall out of favour with those who hold power.
“The 14-day remand order obtained by investigators in the case involving El-Rufai has expired. That order was granted for a specific and limited purpose: to allow investigators complete their work within a defined constitutional window.
” It was not granted as a license for indefinite detention, procedural manipulation, or political theatre”, COPAC warned.
This is as the group called on prominent opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar ,Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal and others to speak out against what it described as emerging pattern of official intimidation and harassment of dissenting voices by the Federal Government and its agencies.
It urged the Federal Government to be mindful of the rights of the citizens as guaranteed by the Constitution.
” The Federal Government must understand, therefore, that it must now do one of two things in the case of involving El-Rufai: file formal charges before a court, or release the detainee immediately.
“Anything outside these clearly defined legal options would amount to acting illegally and unconstitutionally,,and would render the continued detention an abuse of state power and a violation of the constitutional rights guaranteed to every Nigerian citizen”, the group added.
Aiyedatiwa Lied On Deep Sea Port, Bitumen, Licences Were Secured By Akeredolu – Late Gov’s Aide
By Ayodele Oni
An Aide of late former Ondo state Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu has faulted claims by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ascribing some notable projects such as deep sea Port and bitumen to his administration.
A statement Sunday signed by Richard Olatunde, Chief Press Secretary to the late Governor, insisted that the Akeredolu’s administration pursued and secured a licence for bitumen exploration in the state.
“It would amount to sheer injustice to dismiss the gallantry and ceaseless efforts of the late Governor in respect of the Deep Sea Port. Aketi had laid a strong foundation for the actualisation of the port.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa during a media chat in Akure said that three former governors of the state did little about deep sea Port and bitumen project.
“The Deep Sea Port that we are pursuing has been in the pipeline for many years. Agagu talked about it, Mimiko talked about it. Akeredolu also started something, he got port declaration even though it was faulty that I had to pursue to get it amended.”
But late Akeredolu’s Aide faulted the claim declaring that “The statement, laced with innuendo, was a clear misrepresentation advanced by the Governor.
“This attempt to ridicule, belittle and rubbish the rigorous efforts put in by the late Governor Akeredolu to secure the Port Declaration is unacceptable.
“To merely say that ‘Akeredolu started something’ is to demean the sleepless nights and exhaustive efforts that culminated in the Port Declaration.
“It is on record that the late Governor Akeredolu activated the actualisation of the seaport by employing the services of a consulting firm headed by Mr Ekong Etim.
“This firm conducted the feasibility study of the project and came up with the Outline Business Case (OBC), which is the final report showcasing the project as a multipurpose deep sea port. The OBC was presented to the late Governor Akeredolu on August 15, 2020.
“The OBC was then sent to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance, after which it was forwarded to the Federal Ministry of Transportation.
“The Port Declaration was eventually secured in May 2023 after the memo seeking approval was presented by the Federal Ministry of Transportation through the then Minister of Transportation, Engr. Muazu Jaji Sambo, who was motivated by the intense pressure mounted by the former Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye.
“These efforts that led to the Port Declaration go far beyond what anyone, including Governor Aiyedatiwa, should merely refer to as ‘Akeredolu did something.’
“It would amount to sheer injustice to dismiss the gallantry and ceaseless efforts of the late Governor in respect of the Deep Sea Port. Aketi had laid a strong foundation for the actualisation of the port.
“On the insinuation that the Port Declaration was faulty, Governor Aiyedatiwa should be honest enough to tell the people of Ondo State and Nigerians that what he referred to as “faulty” in the Port Declaration was a clerical error where a company’s name was inserted into the document as a partner.
“It was a clerical error and not a fundamental defect. It did not reduce or cancel the validity of the license secured by the Akeredolu administration. This error was cleared by the Federal Executive Council without hesitation.
“The people of the state should also note that both China Harbor and Dubai Port had already shown interest in the development of the deep sea port in the state.
“The delay in the Port Declaration was the reason the late Governor could not further consolidate on the arrangements before he fell ill and subsequently answered the glorious call.
“As for the claim that no government had touched the area of bitumen exploration before Governor Aiyedatiwa, the facts speak for themselves. It is also on record that the Akeredolu administration pursued and secured a licence for bitumen exploration in the state.
“The Federal Government, through the then Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr Kayode Fayemi, approved and announced that the licence was granted to the state as part of the efforts of the Federal Government to diversify the economy and boost the country’s foreign exchange.
“It is unfortunate that Governor Aiyedatiwa continues to attack and demean the achievements of the late Governor Akeredolu.
“Even the new Government House that was initiated and completed by Governor Akeredolu before he died is being contested by Aiyedatiwa.
“For those of us who witnessed the conspiracy that was fuelled by the unbridled ambition of today’s leadership in 2023, we are not surprised by this unwholesome conduct.
“We can only implore the people of Ondo State to seek the truth and not fall victim to falsehood masquerading as truth.”
Wike Confirms Appointment Of FCTA Workers Employed 10 Years Ago
By Ayodele Oni
After 10 years of waiting, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the confirmation of appointment of 1,659 staff of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
The 1,659 whose appointments were confirmed, were among the 2,281, who sat for the confirmation examination conducted by the FCT Civil Service Commission on February 28, 2026.
The FCT workers’ Union had embarked on strike earlier in the year over several unfulfilled demands among which is non confirmation of appointment of workers.
In a statement on Sunday, the Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, quoted Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Emeka Ezeh, as saying that some of the workers who sat for the confirmation were employed as far back as 2016 and 2019.
“2, 512 candidates were invited to present themselves for confirmation examination but only 2,281 turned up for the examination.
“A total of 224 officers were absent, fueling suspicion that they could be ghost workers.
“Some of the workers, who sat for the confirmation were employed as far back as 2016 and 2019, while others were
employed shortly before Wike assumed office in August 2023,” he said.
The FCT Civil Service Commission has also concluded plans to conduct both the 2025 and 2026 promotions as approved by the Minister and in line with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to renewing the Hope of FCTA workforce.
Edo Wins $1 Million Global Innovation Prize in Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge
By Ayodele Oni
Benin City, the Edo State capital, has secured a major international recognition after emerging among the top cities globally in the prestigious Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge, winning a $1 million innovation award.
The global competition attracted participation from over 600 cities worldwide, with only 25 cities across 20 countries making the final list. Notably, Benin City stands as one of only four cities in Africa to achieve this milestone.
The recognition places Benin City firmly on the global map of innovation and urban leadership, highlighting the city’s capacity to develop bold and practical solutions to pressing public challenges, particularly in healthcare delivery.
Reacting to the development, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, described the achievement as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to innovation and the ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across Edo State.
A statement by Patrick Ebojele Chief Press Secretary to Governor, quoted Okpebholo as saying “This recognition is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of our team to transform healthcare delivery in Edo State.
“It reinforces that bold ideas from Benin City can compete — and win — on the global stage,” Governor Okpebholo said.
The governor congratulated the Edo State Ministry of Health and the entire team that worked tirelessly on the initiative, noting that the award demonstrates the state’s growing reputation as a hub for forward-thinking governance and impactful public sector reforms.
Governor Okpebholo also commended the people of Edo State for their continued support and confidence in the administration’s programmes and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
“Congratulations to my hardworking team and to the great people of Edo State. The world is watching, and we are just getting started,” the governor added.
The Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge is widely regarded as one of the most competitive global platforms for cities to present innovative solutions to urban challenges, with selected cities receiving funding and technical support to implement transformative ideas.