By Solomon Ewela, Benin
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has expressed his administration’s commitment in introducing a new era of engagement and empowerment for Edo State’s global diaspora through a visionary and transformative policy framework implemented by the Edo State Diaspora Agency.
He said recent data revealed that Edo State alone contributes a remarkable $7 billion annually, accounting for nearly one-third of Nigeria’s total diaspora remittances.
The governor said initiative would reflects the administration’s resolve to strengthening ties with Edo indigenes worldwide by prioritizing their welfare, optimizing diaspora remittances for structured economic growth, and projecting a positive, unified image of Edo State on the international stage.
The governor who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua in a press statement noted that at the heart of the bold policy thrust is a deep recognition that the welfare of every Edo person abroad is paramount.
He explained that the his administration’s vision was beyond mere financial transactions, acknowledging the multifaceted challenges facing diaspora members, particularly the mental health struggles encountered by irregular migrants who have endured dangerous and traumatic journeys.
“The government is determined to provide not only economic support but also compassionate assistance that affirms the value of every Edo life”. “This approach represents a fundamental shift from viewing the diaspora solely as sources of remittance to recognizing them as vital stakeholders whose well-being is essential to the state’s holistic progress, he said.
Governor Okpebholo further revealed that the administration seeks to unlock the immense economic potential embedded in diaspora remittances, which have historically been a crucial lifeline for Edo families and the state economy.
The governor assured that his government is committed to formalizing these financial flows through innovative mechanisms that encourage security, transparency, and investment readiness.
“By creating a safer and more enabling environment through robust infrastructural development, security reforms, and responsive governance, the state aims to convert informal personal remittances into strategic investments that will fuel sustainable economic transformation across sectors”. He reiterated.
Senator Okpebholo promised that his administration is dedicated to reshaping and amplifying Edo State’s narrative on the global stage, stressing that across the diaspora, Edo people continue to excel in diverse fields, contributing significantly to their host communities and maintaining a strong connection to their roots.
The governor, through his spokesperson said government’s approach involves leveraging existing Edo associations and educational alumni networks worldwide, empowering passionate individuals as official liaisons who maintain an active, two-way communication channel with the agency.
“These efforts are complemented by the development of a cutting-edge online portal, where Edo indigenes can register and receive unique identifiers that validate their community membership”.
He continues: “This platform not only enhances diaspora business visibility but also unlocks special incentives such as money transfer rebates and potential tax breaks for returning residents, thus reinforcing a sense of belonging and encouraging greater economic participation”.
He explained that a central feature of the policy is the emphasis on community-driven development, where local Edo communities identify their most urgent needs, and the diaspora is mobilized to support targeted projects which include approach to foster a collaborative model of development that will bridge geographic divides and unites Edo people in shared purpose.
The administration also confronts the critical issue of irregular migration with a comprehensive, evidence-based strategy. Recognizing that migration challenges are often rooted in misinformation and exploitation, the agency, under the leadership of Dr. Loretta Ogboro-Oko, plans to partner with broadcast media outlets to produce the “Echoes from the Diaspora” series.
” This program will candidly showcase the harsh realities faced by irregular migrants, dispelling myths about easy financial gain abroad, and thereby protecting vulnerable youth from risky journeys”. Moreover, targeted outreach to universities and secondary schools aims to equip young Edo indigenes with accurate data and alternatives to dangerous migration paths, addressing the root causes through education and empowerment”. He noted.
The statement said Governor Okpebholo’s vision for the Edo State Diaspora Agency is not merely an administrative initiative but a transformative movement designed to reposition diaspora remittances from fragmented, informal support into a well-structured investment engine that drives Edo’s socio-economic development.
He reiterated that the vision is anchored in inclusivity, transparency, and long-term sustainability and values that will ensure the institution endures beyond current generations and becomes a permanent pillar of Edo’s growth trajectory.
According to him, as Dr. Ogboro-Oko aptly expressed, this is “a work in progress that will outlive our children’s children,” built on the conviction that the unity of Edo people, both at home and abroad, is the strongest foundation for progress.
“With the purposeful leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, supported by comprehensive policies and the mobilization of diaspora goodwill, Edo State’s economy is poised for an unprecedented upward trajectory fueled by homegrown innovation and global collaboration”. He said.
The governor called on all Edo indigenes worldwide to actively engage with this historic initiative and partner in the shared mission to build a prosperous, secure, and globally respected Edo State.
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