Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, announced plans to revamp the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) during a visit to the station on Friday.
The governor stated that his administration intends to modernize the state-owned media outlet to enable it to compete effectively on the global stage.
He was accompanied by senior government officials during an inspection of both the EBS facilities and various road projects in the state, including those on Upper Mission Extension, Aduwawa Junction, Obadan Junction on the Benin-Auchi Expressway, and Upper Ekenwan Road.
At the EBS station, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the need for professionalism from the station’s management and staff, urging them to offer constructive criticism of his administration whenever necessary.
He stressed that the station should serve the people of Edo State by holding the government accountable.
In an unscheduled visit, the governor was taken on a tour of the EBS facilities by the Managing Director, Suleiman Aledeh, and other senior staff.
The governor noted the challenges faced by the station, including poor electricity supply, inadequate infrastructure, and road conditions. He expressed his commitment to addressing these issues, stating, “The challenges here must be addressed. This station belongs to the people of Edo State, and it should be treated with the same importance as any other state asset.”
Governor Okpebholo assured the EBS management that alternatives for a stable power supply would be explored, including the possibility of switching to solar energy or acquiring new generators.
He also promised to look into repairing the station’s roads and either rebuilding or renovating its studio facilities.
On the issue of energy, the governor said, “I will reach out to the MD of OSSIMO Power Plant, and if we don’t get the needed support, we will explore reliable alternatives to ensure the station operates 24/7.”
In response, Suleiman Aledeh, the EBS MD, acknowledged the difficulties faced by the station, expressing confidence that the governor’s intervention would help solve these challenges.
He stated, “The mandate is clear—transform this station into a media powerhouse that competes globally, not just a government mouthpiece.”
In addition to his focus on EBS, Governor Okpebholo also provided updates on various road projects across Edo State.
He reaffirmed his commitment to overseeing the completion of key infrastructure projects before the onset of the rainy season.
The governor expressed optimism that the Benin-Auchi Expressway would be ready for use by Christmas, praising the contractors for their efforts in maintaining quality and pace.
“The work on the Obadan Junction is progressing well, and I am confident that we will meet our goal within the next two weeks,” he concluded, emphasizing that his administration remains committed to practical governance for the benefit of Edo people.
