Easter: Okpebholo seeks prayers to drive Edo’s infrastructure push

… Commissions rebuilt Auchi College, promises more teachers

BENIN CITY: Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has called on residents to sustain prayers and support for his administration to enable the delivery of more infrastructural development across the state.

The governor made the appeal during the 2026 Easter programme themed, “The Risen Christ and the Risen Edo State” held at the Government House Chapel in Benin City.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Women in Christ, Pastor Aburime-Walter Courage Iziegbe, Okpebholo described the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the foundation for the all-round infrastructural and human capital development being recorded in the state.

She noted that the Easter message symbolises restoration, hope and faith, stressing that just as Christ rose from the dead, Edo State is experiencing a rebirth under the current administration.

“This is a message of wisdom and grace to Edo people. We should keep praying for the governor, his administration and uphold the state for God to take it to enviable heights,” she said.

She added that sustained prayers would further encourage the governor to deepen development efforts across sectors.

The Chaplain of the Government House Chapel and Special Adviser on Religious Matters, Apostle Sule Faraday Azekhumen, said that a “new Edo” had emerged under the governor’s leadership.

According to him, Easter is not merely a remembrance but a revelation that whatever is touched by divine power can rise above limitations.

“It is in this light that we understand our theme: ‘The Risen Christ and the Risen Edo State.’

Through the SHINE agenda, we see a reflection of resurrection principles where order replaces disorder, strength replaces weakness and hope replaces uncertainty,” he said.

He noted that since the declaration of “A New Edo is Risen,” the administration has remained deliberate in translating vision into measurable progress, adding that the state is moving forward with stability and purpose.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser on Communication Strategy and Media Projects, Hon. Godswill Inegbe, said the governor had, in the last 15 months, transformed promises into tangible results.

He pointed to ongoing infrastructural projects across the three senatorial districts, including the near-completion of the Ramat Park flyover, which he described as a legacy project that would outlive the administration.

Guest speaker, Apostle Favour Mopa-Awom, in a sermon titled “He Rose to Break Barriers That You Might Rise,” said Christ’s resurrection remains significant in the lives of believers, as the grave could not hold Him.

She assured the congregation that despite life’s barriers, the power of resurrection guarantees restoration.

The service featured musical ministrations by the Government House Choir and guest minister Cassidy Omoruyi Nelson, while prayers were offered for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria, peace in Edo State, and divine guidance for the governor and his cabinet.

Also, Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has commissioned the reconstructed and renovated Auchi College, Auchi, calling for stronger collaboration between government, corporate organisations and individuals to drive sustainable development.

The governor said that government alone could not shoulder the responsibility of development, stressing the need for collective commitment to the common good.

Speaking at the event, Okpebholo described the project, executed by Mr Peter Omoh Dunia, as a symbol of unity, dedication and love for community.

“What we are witnessing today is more than the rebuilding of structures; it is the restoration of hope, the revival of legacy and a bold investment in the future of our children,” he said.

He commended the Association of Great Achievers, Class of 1991, and Dunia for their initiative, noting that their sacrifice and generosity had created opportunities for future generations.

“This is the spirit we must promote across Edo State. When people come together with a shared vision, great things happen,” he added.

The governor urged students to make the most of the improved learning environment by remaining disciplined and striving for excellence, while assuring that more teachers would be deployed to the school.

He also charged school authorities to ensure proper maintenance of the facilities.

In his remarks, the initiator, Mr Peter Omoh Dunia, said the project was his way of giving back to his alma mater, describing it as an act of remembrance, responsibility and gratitude.

“This school helped shape me. My prayer is that it will continue to stand as a place where knowledge is gained, character is built and dreams take shape,” he said.

Dunia stressed that his intervention was not to replace government, but to complement its efforts in strengthening the education sector.

Also speaking, the President of the Association of Great Achievers, Class of 1991, Prince Omokhigho Momoh, said the project marked the first phase of a broader development plan.

He listed completed projects to include, a modern ICT/CBT centre, well-equipped science laboratories, a sports complex, solar-powered borehole, perimeter fencing, synthetic football field and a modern gatehouse.

Momoh called for the deployment of qualified teachers to complement the new infrastructure and appealed for support towards the second phase of development.

The school’s Principal, Mrs Adams Momoh, expressed appreciation to the initiators, describing the project as a major investment in human capital.

“This is not just about buildings; it is about creating an ecosystem where young minds are nurtured and future leaders are shaped,” she said.