Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced a large-scale recruitment drive aimed at bringing more young people into the state civil service. He described the move as a key step in tackling unemployment and boosting development across the state.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area, ahead of the August 16, 2025 Edo Central Senatorial by-election, Okpebholo said his passion to serve comes from a strong love for his people and a commitment to building a better future for Edo State.
In addition to job creation, the governor outlined several development projects for Edo Central. These include the construction of an ultra-modern market in Irrua, the dualisation of the Ekpoma–Ubiaja road, and the extension of a 33kV power line to end the area’s persistent electricity challenges.
He also highlighted his achievements as a senator, recalling his role in facilitating the ongoing reconstruction of the Benin–Auchi–Okene road with the support of President Bola Tinubu.
He mentioned that he directed the immediate renovation of Eguare-Ugbegun Primary School in Ward 10.
“If I do not develop my home, no one else will,” Okpebholo told the gathering, thanking Irrua residents for their support during his senatorial and governorship victories.
“You resisted rigging, and we won resoundingly. My coming here is to thank you and assure you that I am ready to serve and work for our people.”
The governor announced that he had directed the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, to commence the civil service recruitment process immediately.
“We are going to massively employ our young people,” he said. “Creating opportunities for our youths is the greatest investment we can make for the future of Edo.”
The rally was attended by top APC leaders, including Musa Ikhilor, Edo Central Senatorial leader Cecil Isekhaigbe, APC State Deputy Chairman Sylvester Aigboboh, and APC senatorial candidate Joseph Ikpea. The event formed part of the party’s wider mobilisation ahead of the upcoming senatorial election.