EDO YOUTHS UNDER GENERAL YOUTH ASSEMBLY ENDORSE APPOINTMENT OF DR. FEMI ADEKANMBI AS MD OF BENIN OWENA RIVER BASIN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (BORBDA), CALL FOR UNITY AMONG INDIGENES
Benin City, Edo State – The General Youth Assembly, representing the collective voice of Edo youths across the eighteen Local Government Areas of Edo State, has officially endorsed the appointment of Dr. Femi Adekanmbi as the Managing Director of the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA).
The youth group has strongly dismissed ongoing protests against his appointment, describing them as unnecessary, divisive, and politically motivated. They urged Edo indigenes to resist any attempt by politicians or interest groups to manipulate them into creating discord over a federal appointment that aligns with principles of equity, fairness, and national integration.
Call for Understanding and Unity
Speaking to newsmen in Benin City, the Edo State capital, the Secretary of the General Youth Assembly, Mr. Godwin Osoba, emphasized the need for Edo youths and residents to remain united and not allow external influences to create unnecessary tension over the leadership of BORBDA.
According to him, Dr. Adekanmbi’s appointment is justifiable, as an Edo State indigene, Engr. Saliu Osifuemhe Ahmed, had already served two consecutive terms as Managing Director, totaling eight years. The group pointed out that in the spirit of fairness, it is only right that another state, in this case, Ondo, should take the mantle of leadership.
“We understand the concerns raised by some groups, but it is important to note that this is not an issue of exclusion but one of equity. Edo State has had the privilege of producing the Managing Director of BORBDA for eight years, and it is only fair that another state is given the opportunity to serve. This system ensures that all states within the region have a sense of belonging and can contribute to national development,” Osoba stated.
Appeal to Protesters to Reconsider Their Stance
The youth group called on those protesting Dr. Adekanmbi’s appointment to reconsider their position, recognizing that his emergence does not undermine the interests of Edo State but rather upholds the principles of fairness and national unity.
“We urge our fellow Edo indigenes who are protesting to take a step back and objectively analyze the situation. This appointment is not about marginalization or favoritism but about ensuring a balanced leadership rotation among the states in the region. Nigeria is a diverse nation, and federal appointments must reflect inclusivity to promote harmony and unity,” the group stated.
The General Youth Assembly further emphasized that continuous agitation against Dr. Adekanmbi’s appointment could set a bad precedent that may negatively impact Edo State in future federal appointments. They stressed the importance of focusing on policies and programs that will bring development to Edo State rather than engaging in protests that could create division.
Commendation for the Oba of Benin and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
The youth group also extended its profound gratitude to the revered Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II, for his unwavering support, leadership, and efforts in ensuring peaceful coexistence among Edo indigenes and non-indigenes residing in the state.
“We sincerely appreciate our father, the Oba of Benin, for his wise counsel and commitment to fostering unity and development in Edo State. His role in maintaining peace among all ethnic groups residing in Edo cannot be overstated,” Osoba noted.
Additionally, the group lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his developmental strides in various sectors across the nation, particularly in infrastructure and economic reforms. They specifically urged the President to prioritize the rehabilitation of federal roads across Edo State and the South-South region to facilitate economic growth and improve the standard of living for residents.
“We commend Mr. President for the developmental progress Nigerians are currently witnessing under his administration. We also appeal to him to intensify efforts in addressing critical infrastructural needs, particularly the state of federal roads across Edo State and the entire South-South region,” the statement added.
Call for Development-Oriented Engagements
The General Youth Assembly concluded by urging Edo youths and residents to channel their energy toward constructive engagement and development-driven initiatives rather than engaging in activities that could create unnecessary tensions. They reiterated their commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote the progress and prosperity of Edo State.
“As young people, we must focus on initiatives that will drive development in our state and region. We call on all Edo youths to unite, embrace dialogue, and engage in meaningful conversations that will foster growth rather than division,” the group concluded.
This statement reaffirms the position of Edo youths on the appointment of Dr. Femi Adekanmbi as the Managing Director of BORBDA and serves as a call for peace, unity, and development.
For further inquiries, please contact:
General Youth Assembly, Edo State
Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.