The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate water infrastructure development, enhance security around key assets, and improve the welfare of residents across Edo State.
Okpebholo made this known on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City while receiving the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who led a delegation from the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) on a courtesy visit.
Responding to the minister’s remarks, the governor emphasized that sustained federal-state partnership is vital for long-term development, particularly in the water sector. He disclosed that he had personally inspected some facilities under BORBDA and expressed concern over incidents of vandalism and waste of public resources.
“A lot of resources are being wasted. This is not acceptable. You cannot invest so much and have it destroyed by acts of vandalism. We are taking steps to strengthen security around such areas,” Okpebholo said.
He revealed plans to establish a security outfit in vulnerable areas, including Obayantor, which he described as volatile. According to him, the deployment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) would help protect both lives and critical infrastructure.
On funding, the governor assured that the state would meet its counterpart obligations for ongoing federal water projects, especially the Jattu Dam in Etsako West Local Government Area. He noted that the project would significantly improve water supply in Edo North upon completion.
“We will look into the 25 percent counterpart funding to ensure we meet our obligations. But beyond funding, timely completion is critical. Our people need water, and that project must be delivered on schedule,” he added.
Okpebholo also aligned the state’s development efforts with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stressing that Edo is prioritizing infrastructure renewal in line with national goals.
Earlier, Utsev commended the Edo State Government for its cooperation and ongoing infrastructural improvements, particularly road rehabilitation leading to federal facilities. However, he highlighted challenges facing BORBDA operations, including security threats and encroachment on project sites.
The minister specifically raised concerns about vandalism and illegal activities around the Obayantor axis, urging the state government to enhance protection measures. He also called for support in reclaiming encroached lands in areas such as Obayantor and Illushi.
On the Jattu Dam project, Utsev noted significant progress but urged the state to fulfill its 25 percent counterpart funding commitment to ensure timely delivery. He further appealed for urgent intervention at the Auchi Integrated Farm, where erosion is threatening facilities.
Despite the challenges, the minister expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between the Federal Government and Edo State would boost agricultural productivity, improve water supply, and drive rural development.
The visit highlighted growing synergy between both levels of government in tackling critical infrastructure and development needs across Edo State.
