Shettima highlights ongoing road projects as Okpebholo promises 2.5 million votes for President at Benin City rally
President Bola Tinubu has assured Edo State of continued Federal Government support in infrastructure, healthcare, energy, agriculture, entrepreneurship and security.
The assurance was conveyed by Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday at an All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in Benin City, which also marked the second anniversary of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration.
The rally, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, attracted APC leaders, party supporters and residents of the state.
Addressing the gathering, Shettima said the Federal Government remained committed to its promises to the people of Edo, stressing that the state was critical to efforts to address Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit.
“We have come to assure you that you can count on us too,” he said.
“When we came to you four years ago, we said we could not address our nation’s infrastructure deficit without carrying Edo State along. We have not abandoned that agreement.”
The Vice President disclosed that work had commenced on the dualisation of roads leading to Ekpoma, Auchi and Okpella, as well as the Benin-Agbor-Sapele Road.
He said the Federal Government was determined to deliver additional road projects across the state.
Shettima also highlighted federal interventions in healthcare, energy, entrepreneurship, agriculture and security, while referencing efforts to secure the return of Benin artefacts and transfer ownership of the Benin treasures to Nigeria.
He commended Okpebholo for his performance, while APC leaders and supporters at the rally pledged 2.5 million votes for Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
In his remarks, the Edo governor assured the President of the state’s support in the January 2027 political contest, citing what he described as Tinubu’s contributions to the state.
“In Edo State, we are ready to deliver come January 2027. The President has done so much for Edo people,” Okpebholo said.
“Today, we don’t owe salaries. We don’t owe pensioners. Construction work is going on everywhere.”
He said ongoing construction projects across the state reflected his administration’s commitment to development and workers’ welfare.
Former Edo State Governor and Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, congratulated Okpebholo on his second anniversary in office and commended his efforts towards developing the state.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, also addressed the gathering.
Other APC national and state leaders, party members, supporters and residents were present at the rally.