Benin City, the capital of Edo State, has gained international recognition after emerging among the top cities in the world at the prestigious Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge, securing a $1 million innovation prize.
The global competition attracted participation from more than 600 cities across the world, with only 25 cities from 20 countries making the final list. Benin City was also among just four African cities that reached the final stage of the highly competitive programme.
The achievement places Benin City on the global stage for innovation and urban leadership, highlighting its capacity to develop bold and practical solutions to pressing public challenges, particularly in the area of healthcare delivery.
Reacting to the development, the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, described the recognition as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to innovation and the ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across the state.
According to the governor, the award demonstrates that ideas originating from Benin City can successfully compete at the highest international level.
“This recognition is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of our team to transform healthcare delivery in Edo State. It reinforces that bold ideas from Benin City can compete — and win — on the global stage,” Okpebholo said.
Governor Okpebholo commended the Edo State Ministry of Health and members of the project team for their dedication in developing the initiative that earned the global honour.
He also praised residents of Edo State for their continued support and confidence in the administration’s programmes and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
“Congratulations to my hardworking team and to the great people of Edo State. The world is watching, and we are just getting started,” the governor added.
The Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge is widely regarded as one of the world’s most competitive platforms for cities to showcase innovative solutions to urban problems, with winning cities receiving funding and technical support to implement transformative ideas.
The statement announcing the development was signed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
