Benin City- The Executive Governor of Edo State Sen. Monday Okpebholo has reiterated Edo State’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate water infrastructure development, enhance security around critical assets, and improve living standards for residents.

The governor made this known on Tuesday at Government House, Benin City, while receiving the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, who led a delegation from the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA) on a courtesy visit.

Okpebholo stressed that effective federal-state partnership remains vital to achieving sustainable development, particularly in the water sector. He disclosed that he had recently inspected some facilities under BORBDA and expressed concern over increasing cases of vandalism and waste of public resources.

“A lot of resources are being wasted. This is not acceptable. You cannot invest so much and have it destroyed by acts of vandalism. We are taking steps to strengthen security around such areas,” the governor said.

He revealed plans by the state government to establish a security outfit in vulnerable areas, including Obayantor, described as volatile. According to him, the proposed Forward Operating Base (FOB) would play a critical role in protecting lives and safeguarding infrastructure.

On funding, the governor assured that Edo State would meet its counterpart obligations for ongoing federal water projects, particularly the Jattu Dam in Etsako West Local Government Area. He noted that the project, when completed, would significantly improve water supply in Edo North.

“We will look into the 25 per cent counterpart funding to ensure we meet our obligations. But beyond funding, timely completion is critical. Our people need water, and that project must be delivered on schedule,” he added.

Okpebholo further linked ongoing infrastructural development in the state to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Edo State is aligning with national priorities through visible projects and infrastructure renewal.

Earlier, Minister Utsev commended the Edo State Government for its cooperation and ongoing infrastructural improvements, particularly road projects leading to federal facilities.

He, however, highlighted key operational challenges facing BORBDA, including security threats and encroachment on project sites. The minister specifically raised concerns over vandalism and illegal activities around the Obayantor axis and called for enhanced protection measures.

Utsev also appealed for the state government’s support in safeguarding federal water infrastructure and reclaiming encroached lands in areas such as Obayantor, Illushi, and other operational zones.

On infrastructure, he noted that the Jattu Dam project has recorded significant progress but urged the state government to fulfill its 25 per cent counterpart funding commitment to ensure timely delivery.

The minister further called for urgent intervention at the Auchi Integrated Farm, where erosion is threatening critical facilities, and commended the state government’s efforts in road rehabilitation, including ongoing work on the Benin-Sapele Road.

He expressed optimism that sustained collaboration between Edo State and the Federal Government would enhance agricultural productivity, improve water supply, and drive rural development across the state.

The visit underscored growing synergy between both tiers of government in addressing critical infrastructure and development challenges in Edo State.