An All Progressives Congress chieftain in Edo State, Julius Olele, has praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for his achievements in infrastructure, security and public confidence ahead of his second year in office. Olele, who is also a member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council in Edo State, said the governor has shown unwavering dedication to tackling the challenges faced by residents.

The commendation came as Okpebholo prepares to mark two years in office on Thursday, November 12, having been inaugurated alongside his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, on November 12, 2024.

In an interview ahead of the anniversary, Olele said security was elevated to a top priority by the administration. He recalled that before the administration came into office, kidnapping, cult related violence and other criminal activities had become major concerns for residents. He said Governor Okpebholo has made security a major priority through stronger collaboration with security agencies, community based security initiatives and tougher measures against criminal activities. While security remains an ongoing responsibility, he said, there is now a renewed determination to make Edo safer for everyone.

On infrastructure, Olele applauded the administration for constructing new roads and rehabilitating existing ones across Edo State. He specifically mentioned the notable Ramat Park and Adesuwa flyovers in Benin City as landmark projects that have eased traffic and improved movement.

He emphasised that the infrastructure push extends beyond the state capital, with projects actively being pursued in other regions, including rural communities. The governor, he noted, has personally visited project sites to monitor progress and ensure quality delivery.

Olele also identified the re establishment of public confidence as another crucial achievement of the administration. He said residents now have greater trust in government because they can see visible projects and feel the impact of governance in their daily lives. The governor’s hands on approach, his regular inspection of projects and his open engagement with communities have helped to restore faith in leadership. For many people, he said, the difference is clear in the roads they use, the markets they visit and the safety they enjoy.

The chieftain pointed to strategic investments in road networks, fortified collaborations with various security agencies, and diligent oversight of government initiatives as key indicators of the governor’s commitment. He said the administration has not only started projects, but has followed them through with supervision and accountability.

This, he added, has given Edo people a reason to believe that promises made during campaigns are being translated into concrete action on the ground.

Olele said the second anniversary should be seen as a moment to reflect on progress and to renew the call for continued support for the administration. He urged residents to continue to cooperate with security agencies, to protect public infrastructure, and to play their part in building a peaceful and prosperous Edo State.

He expressed confidence that if the current pace is sustained, the state will witness even greater development in the years ahead.

As preparations continue for the anniversary celebration, supporters of the governor say the commendation from Olele reflects a wider feeling among many Edo residents. They describe Okpebholo’s two years in office as a period of visible change, renewed hope and restored confidence. For Olele and others who share his view, the message is clear: the administration has laid a solid foundation, and Edo State is on a path to greater progress.