Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced a large-scale recruitment initiative targeting the state’s youth population.
The announcement was made at an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, held in support of the upcoming August 16, 2025, Edo Central Senatorial by-election.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that this recruitment drive is a key component of his administration’s strategy to combat unemployment and stimulate development across Edo State.
“If I do not develop my home, no one else will develop it,” he stated, outlining a series of development projects planned for Edo Central, including an ultra-modern market in Irrua, the dualization of the Ekpoma–Ubiaja road, and the extension of a 33kV power line to address the area’s persistent electricity challenges.
The Governor also acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s support for the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin–Auchi–Okene road, recalling his own efforts as a Senator.
He urged the people to support Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, praising the President’s commitment to Edo State.
In addition to the recruitment announcement, Governor Okpebholo directed the Commissioner for Education to immediately commence the renovation of Eguare-Ugbegun Primary School in Ward 10.
He expressed his gratitude to the people of Irrua for their unwavering support during his senatorial and governorship campaigns, commending their resilience against electoral malpractice.
“My coming here is just to thank you and tell you that I am ready to serve and work for our people,” Governor Okpebholo said. “You resisted rigging, and we won very well.”
The Governor further revealed that he has instructed the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Musa Ikhilor, to expedite the recruitment process.
“We are going to massively employ our young people. Creating employment for our youths is the best thing we can do for them,” he affirmed.
The APC rally was attended by prominent party figures, including the SSG, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq.; Edo Central Senatorial leader, General Cecil Isekhaigbe (rtd.); APC State Deputy Chairman, Sylvester Aigboboh; and the party’s senatorial candidate, Hon. Joseph Ikpea. The event served as a platform for the APC to mobilize support ahead of the August 16 senatorial by-election.