The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has declared that effective urban leadership requires deep-rooted understanding, insisting that “only a city boy can truly organise, build and brand a city.”

Okpebholo made the assertion on Thursday while receiving the leadership of the City Boy Movement at Government House, Benin City, where he also reaffirmed Edo State’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

The delegation, led by its Grand Patron, Seyi Tinubu, included the Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, and the Director-General of the movement, Francis Oluwatosin Shola.

Welcoming the group, the governor commended their decision to commence their South-South regional tour in Edo State, describing it as recognition of the state’s growing strategic importance in national political mobilisation.

“You have not made a mistake coming to the South-South and choosing Edo State. I am happy to receive you,” he said, adding that the movement’s structure and coordination inspire confidence in the future of the country.

Okpebholo noted that the rise of organised youth-driven platforms such as the City Boy Movement signals a shift toward more strategic engagement of young people in governance and nation-building.

Drawing a link between the movement and national leadership, the governor praised President Tinubu for what he described as bold and decisive reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy.

“What others could not do, Asiwaju has done. Without chaos, he took that bold decision, and today the country is positioning itself for greater economic stability and growth,” he stated.

Reaffirming his administration’s political stance, Okpebholo declared Edo State’s firm backing for Tinubu’s re-election bid.

“For us in Edo, the decision is clear; we have already endorsed him for a second term. We are proud to align with a movement that reflects vision, structure and purpose,” he said.

The governor further reiterated his commitment to youth empowerment, stressing that sustainable development depends on providing young people with opportunities to lead, innovate and contribute meaningfully to governance.

Earlier, Minister of State for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, speaking on behalf of the delegation, said the City Boy Movement was established to bridge the gap between leadership and young Nigerians, while positioning youths at the centre of governance and national development.

He explained that the South-South tour, beginning in Edo State, is aimed at mobilising and inspiring young people across the region toward active political participation.

Other dignitaries present at the meeting included the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa; the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor; the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa; and the APC State Chairman, Jarrett Tenebe, among others.

The visit marks a significant step in the movement’s nationwide mobilisation drive, with Edo State emerging as a key hub in advancing youth inclusion and strengthening engagement between leadership and the next generation.