JUST IN : UK Diaspora Backs Okpebholo’s Reforms, Pledges Investment in Edo After London Engagement
By OGB Joseph
The Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, has described Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent engagement with Edo professionals and investors in the United Kingdom as a major breakthrough that has boosted international confidence in the state’s development agenda and opened new investment opportunities.
Speaking on the outcome of the London meeting, Ebojele dismissed criticisms that the trip was merely a “jamboree,” insisting that it was a serious business and investment forum designed to reconnect Edo indigenes in the diaspora with their home state.
According to him, the interactive session brought together Edo professionals, entrepreneurs, manufacturers, researchers, medical practitioners, artisans and business leaders living in the UK, many of whom had relied on social media narratives about developments in the state.
He said the governor used the opportunity to present firsthand evidence of his administration’s achievements, particularly in security, infrastructure and industrial development, which he noted changed the perception of many attendees.
“Many of them admitted they had been misled by negative reports on social media. After seeing presentations of ongoing projects and hearing directly from the governor, they acknowledged that Edo has changed and expressed readiness to invest,” he said.
Ebojele explained that the event provided participants the rare opportunity to engage Governor Okpebholo directly, ask questions, exchange ideas and discuss investment prospects in various sectors of the state’s economy.
He revealed that several diaspora groups submitted proposals aimed at partnering with the Edo State Government in business, industrialisation and community development, following assurances that the administration has created an enabling environment for investment.
The governor, he said, reiterated that security remains the foundation of his administration’s “SHINE” agenda, stressing that no meaningful development can take place without peace and safety.
According to Ebojele, the governor highlighted significant improvements in security across the state, noting that the reduction in cult-related violence and criminal activities has restored confidence among residents and potential investors.
He also addressed concerns surrounding land administration, explaining that reforms were introduced after investigations uncovered cases where minors allegedly held hundreds of plots of land under questionable circumstances.
To further encourage investment, the governor reportedly announced incentives, including the allocation of free land to the first set of qualified investors willing to establish businesses in the state.
The CPS said the governor’s entourage included key government officials such as the Commissioners for Environment and Energy, as well as former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, whose presence underscored the importance of the engagement.
He disclosed that the positive response from the UK meeting has already generated invitations from Edo communities in Spain, Canada and other countries seeking similar engagements with the governor.
“The diaspora community contributes millions of dollars annually in remittances. What government is doing is creating a structured platform that will channel those resources into productive investments that will benefit Edo State,” Ebojele said.
He maintained that Governor Okpebholo remains focused on delivering development despite criticism from political opponents, adding that the administration welcomes constructive suggestions capable of advancing the state’s economic transformation.
Describing the UK engagement as “highly productive,” Ebojele said the event demonstrated growing global acceptance of Governor Okpebholo’s vision and reinforced confidence that Edo State is becoming an attractive destination for investment, business and sustainable development.
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Bessing Agbebaku led members of the assembly on the visit. The Secretary to the state governor, Umar Musa Ikhilor and majority leader of the state house of assembly, Hon Jonathan Ibhamawu were all in attendance.
Also, the Edo North Senator, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Jareth Tenebe and a host of others were among the dignitari who were in attendance during the London engagement.
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