Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday inaugurated a five kilometre network of internal roads at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, constructed by the Niger Delta Development Commission.
The governor described the project as a strategic investment in education, campus mobility and regional development, noting that improved infrastructure would enhance safety and overall campus experience.
Speaking at the inauguration, Okpebholo commended the NDDC for the intervention and stressed the importance of quality infrastructure in educational institutions.
He said, “I am honoured to witness this network of internal roads constructed by the Niger Delta Development Commission here at Edo State Polytechnic, Usen.
“This project is more than asphalt and concrete; it is access, connectivity, safety, and opportunity for thousands of students and staff who use this campus daily.
“Road infrastructure within schools is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Good roads enhance security, improve mobility, support learning activities, and create an environment where excellence can thrive.
“By investing in this polytechnic, the NDDC is investing directly in the future of our young people and the economic advancement of the Niger Delta”
The governor urged students to take advantage of the improved learning environment, linking the development to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with relevant agencies to deliver projects that improve lives and drive growth across Edo communities.
The Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, praised the collaboration between the state government and the NDDC, describing the project as a demonstration of effective partnership.
Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, highlighted the administration’s support for education through capacity building and scholarship initiatives.
“Governor Okpebholo has sponsored seven lecturers to China for skill enhancement and five students to study abroad under state sponsorship.
“No student has been sent home due to school fees, and all lecturer arrears since 2022 have been cleared. Plans are underway to send students on full scholarships to Turkey,” he noted.
Iyamu appreciated the governor and President Bola Tinubu for facilitating the resources through the NDDC.
The Executive Director of Projects at NDDC, Victor Antai, who provided technical details of the road project, urged the institution and host community to ensure proper maintenance of the infrastructure.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Edo State Polytechnic Board, Sam Oboh, commended the partnership that made the project possible.
Governor Okpebholo also donated two new buses to the institution and directed that student hostel facilities be evaluated to improve accommodation standards.
