On Wednesday, Edo State Governor Mr. Godwin Obaseki laid the foundation for the Edo State Polytechnic School of Mining and Management in Igarra, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. This initiative marks a significant step towards unlocking the economic potential and accelerating the development of the region.
The Deputy Governor, Engr. Marvellous Godwins Omobayo, highlighted the transformative potential of the new school. Speaking in pidgin English, Omobayo praised Governor Obaseki for his bold decision to establish the institution in Igarra. He noted that this move aims to liberate Akoko-Edo from a history of neglect and underdevelopment by previous administrations.
Omobayo urged the local community to support the Governor’s vision and take advantage of the educational opportunities in technical skills related to mineral processing and related fields. He assured that Governor Obaseki’s efforts to reset Akoko-Edo on a path of progressive development would be rewarded with strong local support for his political agenda of continuity and consolidation.
In addition to laying the foundation for the new school, Governor Obaseki also launched a Digital Resource Center for Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. This center is part of the administration’s commitment to enhancing internet connectivity and expanding the state’s digital economy.
In recognition of his developmental strides across the State and his commitment to the people of Igarra and Akoko-Edo, Obaseki was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Kasime of Igarra Kingdom. The Governor expressed his gratitude and outlined the promising future of the school, emphasizing its potential to be one of the best in Nigeria and possibly West Africa for training students in mining.
“The Edo State Polytechnic now has understanding and partnership arrangements with two Chinese Polytechnics,” Obaseki announced. “They will help us to get the expertise and teachers to train those that will be in this school. The school will offer programs such as National Diploma in Minerals and Petroleum, certificates in basic prospecting and exploration for minerals, basic mining practices and techniques, health safety and environment, basic mineral techniques, and basic drilling and blasting in the mining and minerals industries.”
The Otaru of Igarra, represented by the Palace Secretary, Chief Folorunsho Dania, expressed gratitude to Governor Obaseki for prioritizing the interests of the Akoko-Edo people through this significant project.
The event was attended by Her Excellency, Mrs. Sandra Ufuoma Omobayo, wife of the Edo State Deputy Governor, along with other notable personalities and top government functionaries.
