…Edo people will miss you, Tambuwal says
Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has asserted that his administration has a good story to tell, emphasizing that the achievements so far attained reflect a collective effort that should be celebrated as part of a successful tenure.
The Governor thanked the people for the opportunity to serve, acknowledging that despite the challenges faced by his administration due to the hostile political landscape, alongside many distractions, his administration still maintained focus on its objectives, resulting in the numerous accomplishments being celebrated.
He made this known during the Commissioning of the Benin City Mall and the ShopRite box, on Tuesday November 5, 2024.
The Governor underscored the importance of Edo State as a cultural hub in Nigeria, deserving of a high-quality retail center that aligns with his vision of positioning the state as a premier tourism destination.
He noted that the new Mall, strategically situated within the Benin City cultural district, is expected to create jobs, drive economic growth, and highlight Edo’s rich cultural heritage.
Reflecting on the journey so far, the Governor expressed gratitude to all those who supported the projects undertaken by his administration, stating that none of the accomplishments would have been possible without their contributions.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve. Edo is know for economic development and growth. All we just need is the commitment and dedication of leadership.
“The political environment in which we operated was not the most conducive; there were a lot of distractions, but because of the people I have to work with, we kept our eyes on the ball. This is not the first time the idea of building a mall has been raised but this is the first time it has worked.
“Thank God we were not distracted by the noise. It has not been easy but we thank God that at the end of the day, we have a good story to tell.
“I hope those coming after me note that Edo has a culture of business, and that there are opportunities to open more of these malls across the State. This should not be the last. This should serve as an inspiration for more investors to come in and take advantage of opportunities in Edo.”
Also speaking during the commissioning, the former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, commended Governor Obaseki for the landmark project, remarking that the people-friendly Governor will be greatly missed by the people of Edo State when he leaves office.
According to him, “I want to congratulate Governor Obaseki and his team. Your contribution to the development of this country can never be wished away. Everyone can attest to your capacity, intellectual prowess and integrity.
“I am particularly impressed that there is an innovation attached to this mall, which you can hardly find anywhere else. This is the first time you find in a mall an e-library. The only mall in the country that has a library where parents can bring their children to have a library experience while they shop.
“This is highly commendable. You have done well for the people of Edo State. The people of Edo State would definitely miss you in no distant time.
“Now that you have completed serving 8 years as Governor of Edo State, rest assured, Nigeria is waiting for you. From what you have done in education, healthcare, human capacity development, agriculture, infrastructure, you have definitely left behind indelible marks in the history of the State and Edo people will not forget you for time immemorial.”
Highlight of the event was the official commissioning of the Mall and the ShopRite box, followed by a tour of various outlets within the complex.
