Okpebholo’s UK visit will boost Edo diaspora investment, says ex-commissioner
The Oredo Federal House of Representatives candidate, Dr Paddy Iyamu, on Tuesday said Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent working visit to the United Kingdom would strengthen diaspora remittances and attract greater investment and support for community development in Edo State.
Iyamu, a former commissioner in the state, said the governor’s engagement with Edo indigenes and business leaders in the UK had reinforced the confidence of members of the diaspora.
Speaking with journalists in Benin, he expressed optimism that stronger ties with Edo people abroad would translate into increased remittances, investments and support for development projects across the state.
“The visit will improve diaspora remittances and support because stronger ties with Edo people abroad mean greater support for community projects and increased financial inflows back home.
“The governor’s engagement was aimed at expanding opportunities for economic growth,” he said.
According to Iyamu, the governor also used the visit to showcase his administration’s achievements under the SHINE Agenda, highlighting progress in security, healthcare, infrastructure and education while presenting Edo as an emerging destination for local and foreign investment.
He said Okpebholo assured Edo indigenes in the diaspora of his administration’s commitment to supporting genuine investors, including making land available to Edo sons and daughters with viable plans to establish industries in the state.
Iyamu added that the governor outlined plans to expand investments in agriculture and technology, including the proposed establishment of a Cisco Academy to equip young people with globally competitive digital skills.
He noted that the improved security architecture in Edo would encourage more members of the diaspora to return home and invest, adding that the state was being repositioned as a safe and business-friendly destination for both local and foreign investors.
The House of Representatives hopeful also commended the governor for interacting directly with participants during the London engagement despite the large turnout, describing the gesture as a reflection of a leadership style anchored on openness and accessibility.
He expressed confidence that the gains from the visit would translate into sustainable economic opportunities for Edo residents.
