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How Governor Okpebholo’s First Full Budget Year Set Direction for Edo’s Development By Ebojele Akhere Patrick Patrick PhD Budgets are often judged by figures and projections, but their true meaning lies in what people can see, feel and experience in their daily lives. A close look at Edo State’s 2025 budget performance, compared with the 2024 exit budget of the previous administration, shows a clear shift in both the tempo and direction of governance under Governor Monday Okpebholo. The 2024 budget closed an era. It was largely a consolidation document, focused on sustaining existing structures, maintaining fiscal order and completing ongoing programmes. It performed creditably in revenue terms and helped stabilise the state’s finances at the point of transition. However, it was never designed to be bold or transformational. The 2025 budget, Governor Okpebholo’s first full fiscal year in office, has been different in both tone and intent. It was crafted at a time when Edo faced deep security concerns, mounting social pressures and growing public expectations. Rather than slow down, the Governor chose to act. Security: A Clear Break from the Past Perhaps the most visible change between 2024 and 2025 is in the area of security. When this administration came in, cult killings, kidnapping and violent crime had reached worrying levels. Governor Okpebholo moved quickly, not with promises but with decisions. A stronger anti-cultism law, the recruitment and training of 2,500 personnel into the Edo State Security Corps, and the deployment of patrol vehicles and motorcycles across the state sent a strong message. Communities that once lived in fear are now beginning to breathe easier. This did not happen by chance; it was the result of firm leadership and clear priorities. Infrastructure: From Paper to the Streets Infrastructure under the 2025 budget has moved beyond plans on paper. The award of 28 road projects covering about 255 kilometres and the construction of two flyovers in Benin City — a first in Edo’s history — have changed the conversation around development. While the 2024 budget made steady but limited infrastructure interventions, the Okpebholo administration raised the bar. Roads are opening up communities, easing movement and supporting local businesses. The flyovers, once considered impossible, are now taking shape and symbolising a government willing to do what others deferred. Healthcare and Education: Investing in People In healthcare, the difference is equally clear. The rebuilding of primary health centres, the provision of diagnostic equipment and the commencement of a 150-bed specialist hospital in Edo Central show a government that understands that development begins with healthy citizens. Education has also received uncommon attention. The recruitment of 5,000 teachers and the significant increase in subventions to Ambrose Alli University and Edo State University, Iyamoh, go beyond routine budgeting. They reflect a belief that Edo’s future depends on what happens in classrooms and lecture halls today. Economy and Livelihoods The 2025 budget also shows a human face. The ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme for market women and traders and the creation of over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs speak to an administration that understands the daily struggles of families and small businesses. Unlike previous approaches that focused mainly on macroeconomic indicators, this administration has paid attention to how policies affect ordinary people at the grassroots. Putting the Comparison in Perspective It is important to be fair. The 2024 budget performed well in revenue mobilisation and fiscal discipline, reflecting years of institutional reform. But the 2025 budget has delivered wider impact, stronger visibility and a more direct connection to people’s needs. In simple terms, 2024 kept the system running. 2025 began to move the system forward. Looking Ahead The lessons from the 2025 budget explain the confidence behind the 2026 Budget of Hope and Growth. Governor Monday Okpebholo has shown, within a short time that leadership is not about managing expectations but meeting them. Indeed Edo is shining and many Edo people are beginning to see the difference — in safer streets, better roads, improved schools and renewed confidence in government. That, more than any statistic, is the real measure of performance. Ebojele Akhere Patrick PhD is Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State

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