Edo govt highlights economic stimulus, infrastructure gains amid criticism

Edo State Government has intensified its economic stimulus efforts with targeted interventions, including interest-free loans for small businesses and a bursary scheme for students, as part of broader measures to drive inclusion and expand its tax base.

Kassim Afegbua, Commissioner for Communication and Strategy, said the initiatives are designed to strengthen micro and small enterprises while supporting students of Edo origin across tertiary institutions.

Afegbua noted that the interventions form part of a wider governance framework aimed at addressing economic challenges and improving livelihoods, stressing that increased internal revenue generation remains critical to sustaining development.

The commissioner also defended the Administration against recent criticisms, describing them as politically motivated narratives lacking credibility. He maintained that the Government’s performance is evident in ongoing projects across key sectors.

He highlighted significant progress in infrastructure, citing multiple road projects in Benin City and other parts of the state, including ongoing flyover construction and the rehabilitation of previously neglected federal and state roads.

According to him, despite disruptions caused by early rainfall, several road projects are nearing completion, while others have reached advanced stages, with rural road connectivity also receiving attention.

In the health sector, Afegbua disclosed that about 75 primary healthcare centres have been constructed so far, with a target of 160 within the administration’s first term. Many of the facilities, he said, are already equipped to deliver essential services in rural communities.

He added that work is ongoing to accelerate the completion of a major state hospital project inherited at 55 per cent completion, with the aim of improving secondary healthcare delivery.

On education, the government has rehabilitated dozens of schools, increasing completed projects to nearly 80, while also recruiting teachers to strengthen the system.

Afegbua further cited support for higher education, including a N2 billion grant to Edo State University and increased subvention, alongside plans to improve institutional infrastructure.

He also pointed to gains in security, noting that recent coordinated efforts with security agencies have led to a reduction in kidnapping incidents, supported by the deployment of vehicles and patrol equipment across the State.