In the face of the new economic challenge we face, we need leadership with fresh and original ideas to take on these new challenges, so that we can build on and deepen the success of the current administration. There is only one course of action- we must be courageous and determined, we must build on and extend the success of the current administration to achieve the aspiration of Edo people (Godwin Obaseki, 2016).
There is no iota of that in the fact that Godwin wants to transform Edo State from its current state to a better one, this is evident in his manifesto delivered on the 16th July, 2016 at the official flag off APC campaign for Edo Governorship election. This foresighted man has held different positions, which he judiciously utilized in implementing his part to the development of the state. He is the wax burning the fire of development in Edo state, leading a team of professionals and technocrats in the progressive government of the Comrade Governor as Chairman, Edo State Economic Team for about eight years.
Some ten years back, Edo state was in comatose in the hands of hind-sighted men, it was indeed a decade of mismanagement and failed promises. Then came in a man of purpose, he was ready to transform things, and that he has been doing with the help of other foresighted men, notable of which is Godwin Obaseki. Godwin doesn’t want the progress of the inland state dragged back, he wants to continue with the good work the present administration has embarked on.
Godwin understands the plight of the people; he has gathered enough experience to control the affairs of Edo State. He has plans of focusing on job creation, which is one of the challenges facing our country today. Within his four-year term he hopes to create 200,000 new jobs across the state, through Agriculture, Entrepreneurship schemes attracting investments for the development of industries, technical and vocational skills development. He believes many Edo people will generate wealth by keying into value chain development of Oil Palm, Cassava, Cocoa, Grains, Rubber, among others.
Currently the electricity demand in Edo State is over 450 megawatts but the Benin Electricity Distribution company is rationing about 150 megawatts of electricity between four States. Attracting more investments in large and small scale electricity generation and partnering with BEDC will ensure that more power is available for domestic and industrial activities, this and many others have been lined out to be worked on.
Also, Godwin plans to see to the empowerment of Women. He plans on providing an enabling environment for them, to help them achieve their highest potential by taking their empowerment beyond the phase of women empowerment. Launching development projects under the leadership of women, improving the access to low interest rate for financing their business among others is what this vision man has envisioned for the progressive women of Edo State.
Exempting the youths from the government is one risk Godwin’s administration wont undertake. He understands the impact of youths in the development of the nation. And as a result he has planned to provide medium and small scale enterprises financing for the young entrepreneurs, he will also focus on the development of the youths through investments in sports, arts and crafts.
Godwin wont also forget to protect the lives and properties of his people. This is paramount to a man who understands what it means to be safe, just as learnt from the administration of the Comrade Governor. He plans to formulate a comprehensive strategy with inputs from all stakeholders with a view to making Edo State safe for the citizens and for investors. He would also implement a pocket friendly tax regime to grow the tax as which will help the state run so many things in times like this.
The plans have been rightly set, execution is what is left, immediately after the collective support for the emergence of the man of purpose. Continuity is what is needed, change is out rightly out of discuss!
