Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has voiced strong optimism regarding President Bola Tinubu’s economic agenda, asserting that Nigeria’s economy will eventually match the strength of the United States and the United Kingdom once current reforms are fully implemented.
Speaking to supporters in a video currently circulating on social media, Okpebholo defended the administration’s decision to eliminate the petrol subsidy, arguing that the short-term hardship would yield long-term financial stability.
He praised Tinubu’s political will, noting that previous administrations had consistently avoided the move out of fear of public backlash.
“Mr. President is a man of courage,” Okpebholo said. “For many years, Nigeria struggled with the fuel subsidy, and no president—from Obasanjo down to Goodluck Jonathan—could remove it. Nobody dared, because removing the subsidy could cost a president his office.”
“But in a flash, this president summoned the courage to save this country and reform its economy. He removed the fuel subsidy, and that is why we are seeing a boost in Nigeria’s economy today,” he added.
Addressing the economic difficulties stemming from the policy, the governor maintained that the President is systematically addressing long-standing structural deficits.
“The reforms are succeeding. The goal is to ensure the common man ultimately benefits. There were many holes in the system, and he is filling them now. Once those holes are sealed, Nigeria will bounce back and be as strong as America or England.”
Okpebholo also highlighted the significant increase in monthly federal allocations to states under the Tinubu administration, recalling a recent conversation with former Edo Governor and current Senator, Adams Oshiomhole.
“I was talking to Adams Oshiomhole and asked him how much he received monthly when he was governor. He said around three billion naira. Today, allocations have jumped significantly, reaching nearly 20 billion naira.”
He pointed to ongoing infrastructure projects in the Edo State capital as tangible evidence of these increased resources, specifically noting new flyover construction in Benin City.
“Benin, our ancient city, used to look very different. With the construction of these new flyovers, it is rapidly transforming into a modern city.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming elections, Okpebholo rallied supporters to consolidate support for the President, reiterating his pledge to deliver 2.5 million votes from the state.
“On the 16th of January, we will go to the polls again to vote for our president,” Okpebholo told the crowd. “Are you aware of my promise of 2.5 million votes? Are we going to deliver them?”
