Nosakhare Agbonigiarhuoyi
Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, on Friday, flagged off the construction of the Ugo-Evboesi road project in Orhionmwon local government area, while appreciating residents of Orhionmwon for their support for his administration.
He said: “I am here to flag off a very interesting project. I used the word ‘interesting’, not because we have not built roads in Iyekorhionmwon, but because we are doing something that is very unique today, and I will explain.
“This road between Ugo and Evboesi is an extension of the road we are constructing from Benin City. But this section of 4.3km is not being funded by the state. It is being funded from the tax credit of one of the companies that is operating in Iyekorhionmwon.
“I say it is interesting because, you can imagine, when we have more companies operating here, we can use their presence to get additional benefits to the community.”
The Governor added: “The other reason why we are here today is for me to also inspect the contract of the road from Benin to Orhionmwon. I have seen it myself. I have asked some questions, and I want to assure you that this road will be completed before I leave office.”
Obaseki further intimated residents about the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (ESOPP) which began in Orhionmwon LGA, disclosing that the second phase of the programme will be in Ovia.
He said: “ESOPP has been rated as one of the best agricultural programmes in Africa. At last count, we have almost 20 investors; international, local, big and small, whom we are attracting into the oil palm industry. I am here with some of the investors who we have attracted. They want to see what some early investors like Saro have done in their own farms, as an encouragement for them.”
Also present at the occasion were: Orhiomwon LGA Chairman, Hon. Newman Ugiagbe; Commissioner for Communication, Hon. Chris Nehikhare; Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Stephen Idehenre; Enogie of Ugo N’Iyeke-Orhionmwon, HRH Edugie Ogieriakhi Ogiugo, amongst others.
