Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State recently emphasized that politics should prioritize improving citizens’ lives, underscoring his administration’s commitment to serving the people and driving the state toward rapid growth and prosperity.
During a homecoming reception at the Government House in Benin City for the Edo Queens Football Club, who won the 2023/2024 Nigeria Women Football League Super Six Championship in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Obaseki reiterated his stance against allowing treasury looters access to state funds. Instead, he pledged to continue investing resources in the state’s development and the welfare of its residents.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements since taking office in 2016, Obaseki noted the transformation from a state where youths sought to leave the country to one where they now prefer to stay and contribute to local development.
He highlighted, “I don’t bother when people talk about things they don’t know. We have no regrets; the money they refused to use for Edo people that is the money we have turned around and used for our people.”
The governor also addressed the financial integrity of his administration, stating, “In the last eight years, we have fought different battles and have overcome them all and will always come out victorious. No matter what they do, we will continue to use Edo money for Edo people. We have money in Edo State but when we steal the money, there will be no money to take care of Edo people. Governance is all about using the money to develop the State and its people.”
Expressing gratitude for the support and prayers from Edo citizens, Obaseki thanked God for enabling his administration to transform the state’s fortunes and restore hope. He also commended the Edo Queens for their achievement, reaffirming his government’s dedication to enhancing the sports sector.
Obaseki highlighted the significant investments in sports, which have revitalized the sector and restored the state’s sports legacy. He remarked, “Before we came, sports were in disarray but we came and reorganized it, created a sports commission, and hired qualified people to run sports for us, and today, look at the result.”
He continued, “With our reforms in sports in Edo State over the past eight years, we are sure to continue to produce champions in other areas of sports in the State. Edo State has the biggest team in cricket and the team is almost going continental. We have laid the foundation to succeed and we will certainly build on it.”
The Edo State First Lady, Dr. Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, also praised the Edo Queens, saying, “This is the most glorious and joyous day for me as Edo Queens has made me proud. 29 years is a long time. We thank God and the Government for this achievement. We thank the governor and his administration for the hope and commitment to renewing sports in Edo State. The boys were doing well while the girls were not but I believe that the Betsy Obaseki Women’s Football Tournament shaped the girls and today, they have brought us this cup.”
