The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Students Welfare and Development, Hon. Mubarak Jimah, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for reforms focused on improving education and empowering young people in Edo State.
Speaking at the maiden edition of the Vision and Value Conference 2026 held at the Sir Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub along Airport Road in Benin City, Jimah said the administration’s policies have repositioned schools into modern learning environments equipped for the digital age.
He emphasised that the future of the state depends on its youth, describing them as key drivers of innovation, leadership, and development.
“The future of Edo State lies in the youth as this vision aligns with the bold reforms of governor Monday Okpebholo whose administration has prioritized education and youths empowerment as schools are been transformed into modern centers for learning, equiped with the tools for digital age.
“Youth focus initiatives are opening doors for creative, innovation and entrepreneurship. These reforms remind us that the government believes in the youth, invests in them to build a future where Edo youth can thrive.
“The insight gained here is not for jobs but for creating opportunities, shaping industry and transforming communities.
Together we will build Edo State where education is strong, opportunities are abundant and the future is limitless”.
Also speaking at the event, the governor’s daughter, Barr. Oghogho Okpebholo, encouraged young people to move beyond limitations and channel their potential into productive ventures that promote self-reliance despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
She stressed the importance of creativity, integrity, and productivity in navigating present realities.
“This conference is not just an event but a movement that is dedicated to shaping the bridge between education and the corporate world. This movement recognizes a simple but powerful truth, the future of Edo State and Nigeria lies in the hands of the youth.
“I have a clear vision, I desire to use knowledge as a tool for impact as strong values, discipline, integrity and resolute as education is not about passing courses but preparing for responsibilities as that is what this conference represents.
“Your degrees may open the door but your character will determine how far you will go, your skills may get you noticed but your consistency will get you indispensable, your ambition may start the journey but your discipline will sustain it.
“Nigeria today stands at a critical point as challenges exist but within the challenges lies opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, for ethical leadership and bold ideas”.
In her goodwill message, the Coordinator of the Office of the Edo State First Lady, Edesili Okpebholo Anani, represented by the Executive Chairman of BTVET, Barr. Onomen Briggs, said the conference was designed to equip and inspire students and young graduates through mentorship and career development opportunities.
“The conference offered a unique platform to recognize mentors and role models.These remarkable mentors serve as a beacon of excellence , demonstrating the value of integrity, perseverance and leadership while empowering young people to realize their full potential and pursue their dreams with confidence.
“This conference bridges the gap between academic learning and real world empowerment. I encourage you to take full advantage of this platform, ask questions, engage actively and allow the guidance of our mentors to inspire you to dream bigger, work harder and smartly”.
She noted that the creativity and determination of young people are essential to driving development in Edo State and Nigeria.
The 2026 Vision and Value Conference highlighted the importance of resilience and purpose, encouraging participants to share ideas, build networks, and develop a collective vision for the future.
Some participants expressed optimism that the event would continue to inspire youths to take charge of their future despite existing challenges.
