By Jethro Ibileke
The Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, has said improved security architecture in the state is driving increased business activities and stronger revenue performance.
Afegbua, who spoke on Monday in Benin City, said the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo has met public expectations in restoring security and creating a more conducive environment for investment.
He disclosed that the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) has risen significantly, now averaging between ₦9.5 billion and ₦10 billion monthly.
The commissioner urged both local and foreign investors to take advantage of the improved security situation to expand their operations in the state, particularly in the agricultural sector.
According to him, Edo offers vast opportunities in rice production, cassava cultivation, palm produce and maize farming, with several private operators already active alongside government initiatives.
Afegbua further revealed that the state government recently signed an agreement with a Chinese firm to establish a cement production facility with a projected capacity of 10 million metric tonnes.
“By the middle of next month, the first phase of the project will commence,” he said, adding that the development is expected to generate employment opportunities for youths and contribute to addressing insecurity, including kidnapping.
He noted that while developmental challenges and security concerns are inevitable in a growing democracy, the government has focused on implementing practical, result-oriented policies to address them.
Afegbua said ongoing projects across the state reflect tangible progress, stressing that residents can now see and feel the impact of governance.
He attributed the state’s improved fiscal position partly to increased revenues following the removal of fuel subsidy, which, he said, has enabled the government to execute more projects within a short period.
