By Muhammad Mamman
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, arrived in Edo State on Monday to a warm reception led by Governor Monday Okpebholo and former governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, in a ceremony underscoring renewed commitments to grassroots development.
Wike was in Benin at the invitation of Governor Okpebholo to formally hand over 54 pieces of construction equipment designated for distribution across the 18 local government areas (LGAs) of the state.
The event, held in Benin City, drew senior government officials, political leaders and party supporters, marking what state officials described as a strategic intervention aimed at accelerating infrastructure delivery at the local level.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo said the deployment of the equipment would significantly boost road construction, rural access projects and environmental sanitation efforts across the councils. He emphasised that empowering local governments with functional machinery would reduce dependence on private contractors and improve service delivery.
Wike, in his remarks, commended the Edo State Government for prioritising development at the grassroots, noting that sustainable progress begins with strengthening local administrative structures. He urged council chairpersons to ensure proper maintenance and transparent utilisation of the equipment for the benefit of residents.
Senator Oshiomhole described the initiative as a practical step towards deepening infrastructure expansion in the state, adding that collaboration between federal and state actors remains vital for national development.
The handover of the 54 machines is expected to enhance capacity in road grading, drainage clearance and other essential public works across Edo’s 18 LGAs, signalling what officials say is a new phase of coordinated governance in the state.
