Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, have been honoured with Distinguished Public Service and Leadership Awards by the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in recognition of their outstanding contributions to governance, leadership, and public service.

The awards were presented during UNIBEN’s 2025 Founder’s Day and 53rd Anniversary Lecture, held at the institution’s Main Auditorium in Ugbowo, Benin City.

The university management described both leaders as “worthy ambassadors of Edo State whose commitment to good governance, education, and community development continues to inspire a new generation of public servants.”

Recognition for Service and Vision

In his address, UNIBEN Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Lilian Salami, praised Governor Okpebholo for his visionary leadership style and his administration’s investment in infrastructure, education, and youth empowerment.

“Governor Okpebholo has shown that leadership can be people-focused, transparent, and accountable. His reforms have improved citizens’ confidence in public institutions,” Prof. Salami said.

The Vice-Chancellor also commended Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa for his youth-friendly approach to governance and his active role in mobilizing grassroots participation in state projects.

“Hon. Idahosa’s leadership reflects the dynamism and innovation of a new generation of politicians who are passionate about community impact and inclusive development,” she added.

Okpebholo, Idahosa Pledge More Service

In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo expressed gratitude to the university management for the honour, describing the award as “a reminder that leadership is about service, not status.”

“This award is not just for me, but for the hardworking people of Edo State. It challenges us to keep working harder to deliver the dividends of democracy to our citizens,” he said.

Deputy Governor Idahosa also thanked UNIBEN for the recognition, noting that the institution remains “a beacon of academic excellence and a moral compass for the Edo community.”

“We will continue to partner with UNIBEN and other institutions to expand access to education, technology, and opportunities for our youths,” Idahosa assured.

Celebration of Excellence

The event attracted top academics, political leaders, traditional rulers, and students who applauded the honorees for their achievements and commitment to Edo’s development.
Many described the recognition as well-deserved, reflecting the duo’s steady leadership and renewed focus on rebuilding trust between government and citizens.