The New Building Materials Sellers Association of Nigeria, Edo Chapter, has attributed improved business conditions in the state to the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, citing interventions in security, infrastructure and taxation.
The association’s President, Mr. Gabriel Osahon, stated this on Tuesday when he led members to present an award of excellence to Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa at the Government House in Benin City.
Osahon said the association’s decision to honour Idahosa was also motivated by his loyalty to the governor and his contributions to the administration.
He noted that the state had witnessed improvements in security, roads, schools and the overall business environment since the government assumed office.
“Our business now is flourishing. It’s now going well without people harassing us the way it was before,” he said.
Osahon explained that the association considered the award an opportunity to appreciate the government’s efforts and encourage it to sustain its performance. He disclosed that the association had also prepared an award for Governor Okpebholo and was awaiting a convenient date for its presentation.
The association’s president invited Idahosa to serve as special guest of honour at the grand finale of its Presidential Cup football competition scheduled for December 6 at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) field. He said the competition was organised to demonstrate the association’s support for President Bola Tinubu.
Responding, Idahosa thanked the association for the recognition and stated that his achievements as deputy governor were made possible by the support of his principal. “I cannot be a best deputy governor without the support of my principal,” he said.
The deputy governor noted that the administration had prioritised security, infrastructure and policies designed to create a conducive environment for businesses. He added that the government had addressed the problem of multiple taxation through the introduction of a centralised tax collection system in the state.
Idahosa urged the association to sustain its relationship with the state government and support Tinubu’s re-election bid. He said the government is seeking partnerships with reputable organisations to advance development in Edo.
The deputy governor assured the association that he would seek an opportunity for its members to meet with the governor. He also promised to present an award to the group in recognition of its activities and partnership with the government.