Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday commissioned a five-kilometre internal road network at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, marking a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to educational infrastructure development.
The road project, executed by the Niger Delta Development Commission, was described by the governor as far more than a construction achievement. According to Okpebholo, the network represents access, safety, connectivity, and opportunity for the thousands of students and staff who navigate the campus daily.
“Road infrastructure within schools is not a luxury; it is a necessity,” the governor declared, emphasising that good roads directly enhance security, improve mobility, and create an environment where academic excellence can flourish. He further noted that by developing infrastructure within the polytechnic, the NDDC is making a direct investment in the future of Niger Delta youths and the broader economic growth of the region.
The governor also tied the project to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, urging students to take full advantage of the improved learning environment while reaffirming the state’s dedication to forging partnerships that deliver real impact across communities.
Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, praised the collaboration between the state government and the NDDC, describing the commissioning as a testament to what strategic partnerships can achieve.
Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, used the occasion to highlight the Okpebholo administration’s broader investments in human capital development. He revealed that the governor has sponsored seven polytechnic lecturers to China for skills enhancement and five students for overseas studies. He further disclosed that no student has been sent home over unpaid school fees, all outstanding lecturer salary arrears dating back to 2022 have been fully settled, and plans are in advanced stages to place students on full scholarships to Turkey.
NDDC Executive Director of Projects, Victor Antai, who outlined the technical details of the road construction, appealed to the institution and the surrounding community to take ownership of the infrastructure and maintain it for long-term benefit.
Board Chairman of Edo State Polytechnic, Sam Oboh, expressed gratitude for the intervention, commending all partners involved in delivering the project.
In a further demonstration of his commitment to student welfare, Governor Okpebholo donated two new buses to the polytechnic and directed an immediate evaluation of student hostel facilities to ensure that living standards meet acceptable levels.
With roads built, scholarships awarded, lecturers empowered, and welfare initiatives underway, the Okpebholo administration is steadily writing a new chapter for education in Edo State.
