The Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has reiterated his commitment to disaster prevention and resilience building as a core aspect of its developmental agenda, stating that his administration remains focused on strengthening disaster preparedness through investment in resilient infrastructure, sustainable urban planning and environmental restoration initiatives across the State.
Sen. Okpebholo gave the assurance during an event organized by Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA), in commemoration of the year 2025 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy. Represented by the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, the Governor emphasized that disaster resilience begins with sound policies and sustained funding. He noted that the Government is determined to empower institutions responsible for safeguarding citizens to act swiftly and effectively in times of crisis.
The Governor stated that this year’s theme, “Fund Resilience, Not Disasters,” aligns with the State’s proactive approach of mitigating risks associated with climate change and natural hazards such as flooding, erosion and windstorms. According to him, “In Edo State, we have witnessed firsthand, the growing impact of climate change. Our administration through EdoSEMA has prioritized strategic interventions including strengthening early warning systems, enhancing response coordination, establishing community disaster management committees, providing relief materials to affected persons, and partnering with private and international organizations for technical and financial support”.
Sen. Okpebholo also assured that his administration will continue to invest on infrastructure that can withstand environmental shocks while ensuring that disaster risk reduction remains central to governance. In his words, “Every Naira invested in resilience saves lives, protects assets and reduces the overall cost of disaster recovery”.
In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of EdoSEMA, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, commended the Governor for his unwavering support in strengthening the Agency’s operational capacity. He called on stakeholders to take shared responsibility in promoting disaster prevention and preparedness at the community level, saying, “The State Government has given us the full support to act swiftly whenever emergencies arise. However, disaster prevention is everyone’s responsibility, and we must continue to educate and engage our communities”.
The event climaxed with the presentation of an Award of Excellence and Impact to the Governor, Sen. Okpebholo for his visionary leadership, impactful governance and unwavering support for humanitarian initiatives. Other award recipients included the Nigeria Red Cross Society (Edo State Chapter), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Edo State Fire Service.
Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi
Public Relations Officer
Office of the Head of Service
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
R-L: The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa receiving an award of excellence and impact from the Edo State Emergency Management Agency on behalf of the State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, during the commemoration of the year 2025 International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction in Benin City.
