The Edo State Government is strongly urging residents to prioritize regular medical check-ups as a crucial step in preventing avoidable deaths.
This call to action was made by Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, during a recent briefing in Benin City where he showcased the government’s achievements under its comprehensive “Edo SHINE” initiative.
“Edo SHINE,” the five-point governance roadmap championed by Governor Monday Okpebholo, focuses on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources & Agriculture, and Education. Afegbua emphasized the importance of proactive healthcare, suggesting that early detection and treatment of medical issues can often be resolved with minimal expense.
“What you are running away from may just be what N5,000 can treat,” he stated, highlighting the potential for early medical checks to prevent more significant healthcare costs down the line. He further encouraged residents to look out for one another, reinforcing the fragility of life and urging prompt attention to health concerns.
Beyond healthcare, Afegbua detailed the government’s commitment to the “Edo SHINE” agenda through quarterly performance appraisals of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This rigorous evaluation process ensures alignment with the administration’s core objectives.
Significant infrastructure projects are underway across Edo’s three senatorial districts, including extensive road construction, school renovations, and the establishment of a 150-bed hospital in Edo Central.
Afegbua confirmed that contractors are receiving timely payments, based strictly on certified work completed. Impressively, over 533 kilometers of roads are currently under construction, with anticipated completion before the end of the year.
Addressing environmental concerns, Afegbua acknowledged the Federal Government’s warnings regarding climate change, flooding, and erosion. He stated that the Edo State Government has proactively initiated drainage clearing and other flood control measures. The state’s Ecological Commission has identified vulnerable areas requiring intervention, supported by counter-funding from the Federal Government.
On the security front, the Commissioner confirmed arrests made in connection with the tragic killing of a student near the University of Benin gate. He reiterated the government’s unwavering zero-tolerance policy towards cultism, which also extends to internet fraud (“Yahoo Yahoo”) exploited by criminal elements.
Afegbua concluded by urging residents to continue their support of the government’s efforts to deliver enhanced dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State.
