The Governor of Edo State, Mr Godwin Obaseki says the Benin River Port, which is currently under construction will decongest Nigeria’s premiere port in Apapa, Lagos when completed.
The Benin River Port is about 37 nautical miles from the Atlantic ocean.
Governor Obaseki stated this during the monthly “Meet the Governor Forum” organised by the Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce in Lekki Lagos.
The Governor who pointed out that the State is also experiencing rapid population growth just like Lagos, noted that Edo is the second or third largest second hand car market in the country and when the Benin River Port becomes operational, it will not just reduce the pressure on Apapa, but also boost the State economy.
Governor Obaseki stated that his administration had been operating under a-six-thematic pillar to develop the State thereby breaking bureaucracy and building talents through revamping the education sector right from the primary school.
He said his administration had also boost human capacity development by preparing Edo State indigenes for the world of work locally and globally, while a large number of young men and women are being trained to become experts in technology.
On security, Governor Obaseki stated that a four-tier security system was introduced, involving more locals in protecting people and the environment, while also improving the capacity of the Nigeria Police in the State.
Though being a hub for the nation’s electricity and gas network, the Governor said his administration had had to partner the private sector on an Independent Power Project to light up the city.
On lessons learnt from COVID, Governor Obaseki announced that all tiers of the State healthcare system are being revamped to provide accessible and quality service to Edo people
On culture and tourism, Governor Obaseki revealed that two archaelogical teams are currently working in Benin City, while his administration is building a museum to accommodate repatriated artifacts and also working to restore monuments across the State.
While welcoming participants to the forum, the President of the NBCC, Mrs Bisi Adeyemi said it was part of the Chamber’s mandate to provide first hand information on investment opportunities available across Nigeria
