On Monday, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo of Edo State signed into law a revised ₦485.63 billion supplementary budget, marking a significant step toward the development of the state. The Edo State House of Assembly had earlier approved the supplementary budget, following a swift deliberation and approval during its plenary session on the same day. This new budget allocation is expected to address critical financial needs and support various development projects across the state.
The supplementary budget is designed to meet both operational and long-term development needs. It has been divided into two main categories: ₦202.65 billion for recurrent expenditures and ₦282.99 billion for capital projects. The recurrent expenditure covers the day-to-day operational costs of the state, while the capital expenditure will fund large infrastructure projects aimed at boosting the state’s economy and improving the quality of life for its residents.
Governor Okpebholo had submitted a letter to the State Assembly on November 13, 2024, requesting the passage of the revised budget. In his remarks during the signing ceremony, the governor expressed his gratitude to the lawmakers for their quick approval, which he believes will allow his administration to hit the ground running. He said, “I want to thank the House for the prompt passage of this budget. With this momentum, we are prepared to set Edo State on a path to significant development and progress.”
The supplementary budget is crucial for several reasons. First, it ensures the continued smooth functioning of government services and institutions, allowing the administration to meet its financial obligations and deliver essential services to the people of Edo State. Secondly, the capital expenditure allocated in the budget will fund infrastructure projects such as roads, hospitals, schools, and other public amenities that are essential for the long-term growth and development of the state.
The signing of the supplementary budget is seen as a reflection of the strong collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government. Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, attended the ceremony and emphasized the importance of teamwork. He stated, “The Edo State House of Assembly has acted swiftly to ensure that the new administration can begin its projects without delay. Government is a continuum, and we are committed to working with the governor to foster the growth and development of the people of Edo State.”
In addition to the budget signing, Governor Okpebholo also announced the appointment of Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole as the new Commissioner for Health. Dr. Oshiomhole’s appointment is a significant move for the state’s health sector, and it comes at a crucial time as the state focuses on improving healthcare services.
Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole brings a wealth of experience and education to the role. He holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) from Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in New Orleans, LA. He also received postgraduate training at prestigious institutions such as Harvard University in Clinical Research and Queen Mary University, London, in Gastroenterology. This robust academic background positions Dr. Oshiomhole well to lead Edo State’s healthcare sector toward modernization and better service delivery.
It’s also worth noting that Dr. Oshiomhole is the first son of Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State and current senator representing Edo North in the National Assembly. His appointment reflects a commitment to continue the work of his father in driving development in the state.
During the plenary session, the House of Assembly members considered a report from the committee on Rules and Government House, which had reviewed Dr. Oshiomhole’s nomination. After this review, the House confirmed his appointment unanimously. Dr. Oshiomhole’s leadership is expected to enhance the state’s health infrastructure and improve access to quality healthcare for the people of Edo State.
With the ₦485.63 billion supplementary budget signed into law and Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole confirmed as the new Health Commissioner, Governor Okpebholo’s administration is moving forward with a clear focus on improving the state’s infrastructure and public services. The budget will not only address immediate financial needs but also lay the foundation for future development projects that will benefit the people of Edo State for years to come.
Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, supported by the swift actions of the Edo State House of Assembly, signals the beginning of a new era for the state—one that promises enhanced infrastructure, better governance, and improved quality of life for all its residents.
