By Mercy Onyenweli
The Edo State Government has called on both local and international investors to take advantage of the vast business opportunities in the state, assuring them of a safe and conducive environment for investments.
The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Prince Kassim Afegbua, made this known during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information in Benin City.
He noted that the government has actively involved traditional rulers in strengthening community-based security by monitoring movement within their domains.
According to him, sustained improvements in security and road infrastructure have made Edo State increasingly attractive for business activities.
He emphasized that the state is now secure and open to investment across multiple sectors.
Highlighting key areas of opportunities, Afegbua listed agriculture—including rice, cassava, palm produce, and maize—as well as industrial development projects.
He specifically mentioned a proposed 10,000-ton cement production plant in Owan, which is expected to boost employment and stimulate economic growth.
Afegbua further explained that the removal of fuel subsidy has significantly increased the state’s monthly allocation, while internally generated revenue has risen to between ₦9.5 billion and ₦10 billion.
He said these improvements have enabled the government to execute various development projects and enhance the welfare of civil servants.
“This administration has employed over 1,000 civil servants, with more than 3,000 engaged across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), unlike the previous government that relied heavily on consultants in critical areas. “
“We have also carried out promotions across different cadres, making governance more robust and motivating,” he said.
The commissioner added that the government has revitalized digital governance through a new e-governance platform, described as more interactive and inclusive than previous systems.
He also disclosed that ultra-modern markets under construction in Oba Market (Edo South), Ekpoma, and Jattu are about 80 percent completed.
In a related development, Afegbua clarified the government’s position on recent comments attributed to one Ego-go, stating that the remarks were personal and do not reflect the stance of the state government.
He stressed that the administration does not condone political hooliganism and has distanced itself from the comments