The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, commissioned six emergency patrol speed boats, in Ologbo, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state, on Wednesday, as part of efforts to boost security in riverine communities across the state.
At the commissioning, Obaseki stated that in order to guarantee the safety of citizens and the preservation of property, his administration has stepped up cooperation with state security agencies and taken practical measures.
“I am here today to commission these emergency patrol boats as part of what we plan to do,” declared the governor. My goal in visiting this place again is to help you and the communities surrounding the waterways launch a fleet of water transport boats.
“The most important thing we need to see in Ologbo is peace and security. Many investors will come to develop the land if there is peace and security. The area will be able to grow further and the young people will be able to secure excellent jobs. In comparison to the port terminals that will be constructed here, this jetty will be tiny.
“I want to see Ologbo become a hub for skill development, especially in technical institutions. There will be a need for technical workers as more people move here with their factories and industries. Consequently, since it is never too late, we must train you.
“To prepare yourself for the industries that will be coming here, you will enroll in classes like welding and fitting or anything else you like. So, seize the chance when it presents itself.
“Ologbo is a melting pot of cultures, which makes it, along with the surrounding communities, very special. The waterways have long been used for trade by the Benins, Itsekiris, Urhobos, and numerous other groups. This community has abundant gas resources and is also producing oil, which presents opportunities that many other Nigerian states do not.
“Searching for investors and using the gas to create electricity was one of our initial actions with the gas. We can bring a lot of industries with the gas, especially the chemical and fertilizer industries, and much more, but for this to be feasible, the area must be free from conflict and secure.”
He went on, “We know how hardworking this community is, especially the women, so we believe in you and your efforts. When I go around the waterways, either the Ossiomo River, Benin River, or Ovia River, I see the commerce and trade being undertaken by women. The government will support you.
Governments in the past have not been just because they have not made the necessary investments in education. It is imperative that we constantly focus on the future rather than the past and consider how we might make up for the mistakes of the past. The education we are providing for our kids now is far more robust and superior than what we were taught.”
“The six emergency boats that we ordered are here and I am here to launch them. I pledge to return and introduce a transportation service for our waterways. “The industries we wish to bring to Ologbo will come while I am still in office, as long as you continue to support us,” the governor assured.
“Obaseki is passionate about peace, security, and development in Edo,” stated Deacon Friday Osazuwa, the Secretary of the Ologbo Community, in response to the governor’s commendable developmental efforts throughout the state.
The Warri Iyasere, Chief Johnson Atseleghe, added, “We have less than 48 hours until the election, and the outcome will demonstrate to you our gratitude for everything you have done for the people of Warri. All of our votes will be cast for you.”
