19 MONTHS IN THE SADDLE: EDUCATION CONTINUES TO RECEIVE DELIBERATE ATTENTION UNDER GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO
“Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” — Malcolm X
The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has continued to place education at the forefront of its development agenda, recognizing it as a critical instrument for human capital development, sustainable socio-economic growth, youth empowerment, and long-term prosperity. The administration believes that a strong educational system is essential to building a productive, innovative, and globally competitive workforce.
Since assuming office in November 2024, Governor Okpebholo has pursued deliberate policies aimed at transforming the education sector through increased funding, strategic reforms, improved infrastructure, and enhanced support for educational institutions across the state. These interventions have laid the foundation for a more inclusive, accessible, and quality-driven education system.
Within the past 19 months, the administration has recorded significant milestones in teachers’ welfare and workforce development. More than 5,000 Edo-STAR teachers have been permanently absorbed into the Edo State Civil Service, while thousands of additional qualified teachers have been recruited to strengthen teaching capacity and improve learning outcomes in public schools across the state.
The government has also made remarkable progress in educational infrastructure. More than 100 schools have been newly constructed or comprehensively renovated across Edo State, with the provision of modern classrooms, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) laboratories, and perimeter fencing to create a safer, more conducive environment for teaching and learning.
In line with its commitment to strengthening tertiary education, the administration substantially increased the education budget from ₦48 billion in 2025 to ₦59.67 billion in 2026. Monthly subventions to state-owned tertiary institutions have also witnessed unprecedented increases, ensuring improved institutional stability and enhanced service delivery.
The revised monthly subventions include:
* Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma: Increased from ₦49 million to ₦500 million.
* Edo University, Iyamho: Increased from ₦20 million to ₦250 million.
* College of Education, Igueben: Increased from no monthly subvention to ₦100 million.
* Edo State Polytechnic, Usen: Increased from no monthly subvention to ₦100 million.
Beyond funding and infrastructure, the administration has implemented far-reaching systemic reforms designed to modernize the education sector. These include the digitization of school certificates to eliminate forgery, the upgrading of technical colleges with modern workshops and equipment, and the introduction of the EduRescue Initiative, which is focused on identifying and reintegrating out-of-school children into the formal education system.
These achievements underscore Governor Monday Okpebholo’s unwavering commitment to repositioning education as a catalyst for sustainable development, economic transformation, and social advancement. Through deliberate investments and people-centred reforms, the administration is laying a solid foundation for a brighter future for Edo State and generations to come.
Signed:
Hon. Haruna Braimoh
Special Adviser on Public Affairs and Media to the Edo State Government