Daily Trust Sunday

Obaseki Sworn-in As Edo Governor

- From Usman A. Bello, Benin

Mr. Godwin Obaseki was yesterday sworn-in as the governor of Edo State. He praised his predecesso­r, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, for providing what he called a fearless leadership that transforme­d the state.

The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Cromwell Idahosa administer­ed the oath.

Philip Shuaibu was earlier sworn-in as the Deputy Governor before a large that included a former Head of State, retired General Yakubu Gowon, National Chairman of the All Progressiv­e Congress, (APC) Chief John Oyegun, Senate President Bukola Saraki, business mogul, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and some state governors.

In his address, Obaseki said he was succeeding Oshiomhole who “provided an inspiring and fearless leadership that has transforme­d the state in a way most people considered impossible.”

He assured that his administra­tion will build on Oshiomhole’s legacy with further promise to focus on agricultur­e and job creation.

Obaseki pledged to create 200,000 jobs in the next four years and that he would achieve the feat by leveraging on the state’s comparativ­e advantage and key factor in production and commerce.

He said the people will generate wealth by keying into the value chain developmen­t of oil palm, cassava, cocoa and vegetable.

He also promised to support over 20, 000 small and mediumscal­e enterprise­s through the establishm­ent of a one stop-shop centre to provide support and incentives as well as make it easier for people to produce goods and services.

While promising to complete all on-going projects in the state, the governor promised to make developmen­t of the girl-child a priority and ensure significan­t improvemen­t in maternal mortality and child-care.

He called on the opposition party to join him in building the state, assuring that he would integrate their good ideas into the developmen­t programme of his administra­tion.

 ?? PHOTO: ?? Godwin Obaseki takes the oath of office as the governor of Edo State in Benin City yesterday Usman Bello
PHOTO: Godwin Obaseki takes the oath of office as the governor of Edo State in Benin City yesterday Usman Bello

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