Edo launches free hydrocele surgery programme statewide

Key Takeaways

• Edo State has begun free hydrocele surgeries and lymphedema treatment.
• The programme covers Edo South, Edo Central and Edo North.
• Six surgeries were successfully completed during the first phase.
• Officials say the initiative will ease healthcare costs for vulnerable residents.
• The programme forms part of efforts to combat neglected tropical diseases.

Residents living with hydrocele and lymphedema in Edo State are beginning to receive free treatment under a new healthcare initiative introduced by the state government in partnership with ENDFUND.

The intervention, coordinated through the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, is being rolled out across the three senatorial districts to improve access to specialist care for vulnerable residents who may struggle to afford treatment.

Health officials said the programme includes free hydrocelectomy surgeries and lymphedema management services, targeting conditions often linked to neglected tropical diseases.

Free hydrocele surgery programme targets vulnerable residents

Speaking during the commencement of the exercise in Benin City, the Executive Secretary of the agency, Dr Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia, said the initiative reflects the administration’s wider healthcare agenda under Governor Monday Okpebholo.

According to him, many patients affected by hydrocele face not only physical discomfort but also financial and emotional hardship due to the cost of surgery and long-term care.

Officials stated that all procedures and related medical services under the programme are being provided without charge.

Hydrocele is a condition involving swelling in the scrotum caused by fluid accumulation, while lymphedema refers to severe swelling that commonly affects the limbs. Both conditions are associated with lymphatic filariasis, one of the world’s neglected tropical diseases, according to public health experts.

Edo expands neglected tropical disease response

The Director of Disease Control and Immunization, Dr Eseigbe Efeomon, described hydrocele as one of the diseases the state government aims to eliminate through early treatment and public health interventions.

He praised the collaboration between the state government, ENDFUND and the Ministry of Health, noting that several beneficiaries might otherwise have been unable to pay for surgery.

Public health authorities say untreated hydrocele and lymphedema can limit mobility, reduce productivity and contribute to social stigma in affected communities.

Programme spreads across Edo’s three districts

The first phase of the free hydrocele surgery programme took place between 5 and 6 May at Oluku Primary Healthcare Centre in Edo South Senatorial District.

Medical officials confirmed that six successful hydrocele surgeries were performed on adult men and male children during the opening phase.

The operations were led by Dr Osoikhia alongside Dr Daniel Mitohta Moses, anaesthesiologist Dr Monday Ugiagbe and other healthcare personnel.

State NTD Coordinator Mrs Happy Poko said the next phase would hold at Obiyon Primary Healthcare Centre in Esan North East Local Government Area between 8 and 9 May for residents in Edo Central.

She added that the programme would later move to the Referral Medical Centre in Afuze, Owan East Local Government Area, from 11 to 12 May to cover Edo North Senatorial District.

Officials said the phased approach is intended to ensure residents across the state can access treatment closer to their communities.

Beneficiaries welcome intervention

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the state government and medical teams overseeing the programme, describing the intervention as timely relief amid rising healthcare costs.

Healthcare workers supervising the exercise included Dr Christian Aboh, Medical Officer of Health for Ovia North East, Mrs Agho Nanasha of Oluku PHC and other state health officials.

The initiative highlights growing efforts by the Edo State Government to strengthen primary healthcare delivery and tackle neglected tropical diseases through community-based interventions.

Health experts say sustained awareness campaigns, early diagnosis and continued medical outreach will be critical if the state hopes to reduce cases of hydrocele and lymphedema in the long term.

Rema World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony marks global spotlight

Afrobeats star Rema has been confirmed as one of the headline performers for the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The announcement was made by FIFA in a social media post, confirming a high-profile global line-up for the event. The ceremony is scheduled to take place in Los Angeles, a city often described as the heart of global entertainment.

According to FIFA, the show will bring together artists from different continents. The aim is to reflect the cultural diversity of the United States and its global diaspora.

Global stars join Rema World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony

Alongside Rema, the list includes several internationally recognised performers. They are American rapper Future, pop star Katy Perry, Brazilian singer Anitta, South African artist Tyla, and K-pop star LISA.

FIFA said additional performers will be announced later. The organisation described the line-up as part of a wider celebration of global music and culture.

FIFA highlights cultural diversity in ceremony plans

In its statement, FIFA explained that the opening ceremony in Los Angeles would reflect the scale of the tournament.

The governing body said the 2026 World Cup would be “extraordinary in scope” and designed to unite audiences through sport and music.

It added that the selected performers represent the “vibrance of the United States and its diasporas,” while also showcasing the role of music in connecting global audiences.

Afrobeats global reach grows with Rema appearance

Rema’s inclusion underscores the continued rise of Afrobeats on the world stage. Over the past few years, Nigerian music has gained significant international visibility, with artists regularly appearing on major global platforms.

His selection for the ceremony places him among a growing number of African artists featured in global sporting events and entertainment showcases.

Background: World Cup opening ceremony in Los Angeles

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The opening ceremony in Los Angeles is expected to draw a global audience of millions.

FIFA has increasingly integrated large-scale entertainment into its tournament openings, blending music performances with sporting spectacle.

Rema’s appearance at the 2026 World Cup opening ceremony highlights both his personal rise and the expanding global reach of Afrobeats. The event also reflects FIFA’s continued push to merge football with global pop culture.

Edo State earns national recognition for academic performance

A major spotlight has fallen on the education sector in Edo State after it secured a national commendation from the National Examinations Council (NECO).

The award was presented to Governor Monday Okpebholo following Edo State’s strong showing in national examination results. According to NECO, the state ranks among the top three in Nigeria for the percentage of candidates who obtained five credits and above in the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) internal examinations since the council began operations.

The recognition places Edo State in a competitive group of high-performing states in the country’s education assessment records.

NECO highlights data-driven education performance

The National Examinations Council explained that the award is based strictly on measurable performance indicators. These include pass rates, access to examinations, and sustained investment in education by state governments.

Officials said the initiative is designed to reward consistency and excellence in academic outcomes. It also reflects how sub-national governments are shaping learning standards across Nigeria.

According to NECO, the award is not symbolic alone. It is grounded in performance data collected over time.

Governor Okpebholo receives commendation amid reform push

Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration was singled out in the recognition for its contribution to improving education outcomes in Edo State.

While presenting the award, NECO noted that stronger collaboration between examination bodies and state governments remains critical to improving national performance.

The council also linked Edo’s achievement to broader efforts aimed at strengthening public education infrastructure and learning quality.

NECO calls for healthy competition among states

NECO said the award is intended to encourage other states to improve their education systems through healthy competition.

It added that recognising top-performing states helps drive accountability and better investment in education.

The council stressed that improving student performance remains central to Nigeria’s long-term development goals.

Broader context: Education reform and national outcomes

Across Nigeria, education performance has remained a key concern for policymakers. Variations in funding, infrastructure, and teacher development continue to shape results in public examinations.

In this context, Edo State’s placement among the top performers is seen as a reflection of targeted policy focus and sustained administrative attention to schooling outcomes.

Experts often argue that consistent investment and monitoring are key drivers of improved examination results at state level.

What this recognition means

Edo State’s inclusion among top NECO performers reinforces the role of state governments in shaping education quality.

It also signals a wider push by examination bodies to reward merit and data-backed progress.

For Edo, the challenge now lies in sustaining and improving on this performance in future examination cycles.

Okpebholo anti-cultism drive boosts investment in Edo

Investor confidence in Edo State is showing signs of recovery following the government’s renewed crackdown on cult-related violence, according to a leading private sector player.

The Managing Director of Skyewise Group, Elvis Abuyere, says Governor Monday Okpebholo’s anti-cultism campaign has helped reshape perceptions of security in the state capital, Benin City, making it more attractive to investors.

He made the remarks ahead of the formal launch of Skyewise Group’s operations in the state.

Security improvements reshape business outlook

According to Abuyere, the reduction in cult-related activities has had a direct impact on business confidence.

He stated that the security situation has improved significantly compared to previous years.

“Before now, cultism was said to be high, but it has reduced to the barest minimum,” he said.

“That means it is now safer for us to do business here.”

His comments reflect a broader view among some investors that stability is key to unlocking economic potential in urban centres like Benin City.

Challenging negative perceptions of Edo State

Abuyere also pushed back against long-standing negative narratives about Edo State.

He argued that on-the-ground experience tells a different story from external perceptions.

Benin City, he said, is increasingly positioned to attract and retain investment if current reforms are sustained.

Analysts note that insecurity has often been cited as a barrier to private sector growth in parts of southern Nigeria.

Skyewise Group expands footprint in Nigeria

Skyewise Group operates across multiple sectors of the economy.

These include investment services, credit management, logistics, automobile services, youth empowerment, and commercial real estate.

The company has been active in Nigeria for over a decade.

It is now seeking to deepen its presence in Edo State.

Youth empowerment and entrepreneurship focus

Abuyere highlighted entrepreneurship as a central pillar of Africa’s economic future.

He said Nigeria has a leading role to play in that transformation.

Through the Skyewise Foundation, the company claims it has trained and empowered young people for over six years.

Some beneficiaries have reportedly gone on to establish their own businesses.

“We have been supporting businesses through loans and empowerment initiatives,” Abuyere said.

“Our goal is to help young people build something meaningful and sustainable.”

Broader economic implications

The investor also addressed wider concerns about youth unemployment and social development.

He argued that targeted empowerment programmes can help unlock the potential of young Nigerians.

This, he said, could contribute to long-term economic growth and stability.

Investment climate tied to security reforms

The remarks by Skyewise Group underline a recurring theme in Nigeria’s development debate: security and investment are closely linked.

For Edo State, stakeholders say sustained anti-cultism efforts could be critical in maintaining investor confidence.

However, observers also note that long-term success will depend on consistent enforcement and broader economic reforms.

Edo Queens will attempt to tighten the race for top spot in the Nigeria Women Football League when they face Pacesetters Queens on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

The NWFL Matchday Seven fixture is scheduled for a 4pm kick-off. It comes at a crucial stage of the season for the Benin-based side, who remain one of the strongest teams in Group A.

Edo Queens Enter Clash in Strong Form

Confidence is high inside the Edo Queens camp after last week’s convincing 3-0 away victory against Naija Ratels in Abuja. The result extended the club’s impressive start to the 2025/2026 campaign.

The former WAFU-B champions currently occupy second place in Group A with 12 points. They sit three points behind league leaders Bayelsa Queens.

According to club officials, the players see Wednesday’s encounter as another must-win fixture in their push for the title.

Their home record also gives supporters reason for optimism. Edo Queens are yet to lose at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium this season.

Pacesetters Queens Face Difficult Test

For Pacesetters Queens, the trip to Benin represents one of their biggest challenges of the campaign.

The visitors will face a side known for aggressive attacking football and disciplined defending. Edo Queens have also developed a reputation for controlling matches both home and away.

Analysts following the NWFL believe the fixture could reveal how prepared Pacesetters Queens are against top-level opposition.

Women’s football in Nigeria has grown steadily in recent years. Clubs such as Edo Queens and Bayelsa Queens have helped improve the profile of the domestic league through strong performances in national and regional competitions.

Moses Aduku Demands Full Concentration

Edo Queens manager Moses Aduku said his players remain focused despite their recent success.

Speaking after the victory over Naija Ratels, Aduku praised his squad’s consistency and determination.

According to him, the team’s confidence is coming from its performances on the pitch and the momentum built since the start of the season.

The coach also warned against underestimating any opponent in the league.

Aduku said modern football leaves little room for complacency and stressed that his side would continue taking matches one at a time.

NWFL Title Race Gathering Momentum

The contest in Benin could have implications for the wider title race in Group A.

A victory for Edo Queens would keep pressure on Bayelsa Queens and strengthen the club’s ambitions of finishing top of the table.

For the visitors, however, a positive result could reshape expectations for the rest of their season.

Supporters are expected to turn out in large numbers as Edo Queens continue their pursuit of league glory.

Key Takeaways

• Edo Queens host Pacesetters Queens in NWFL Matchday Seven.
• The match will take place at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
• Edo Queens are unbeaten at home this season.
• The Benin side are second in Group A with 12 points.
• Coach Moses Aduku has urged players to remain focused.

Wednesday’s fixture is shaping into another important moment in the NWFL season. Edo Queens enter the match with momentum, confidence and a strong home record.

Pacesetters Queens, meanwhile, face the difficult task of stopping one of the league’s most consistent teams. The result could influence the direction of the title race in Group A.

Edo Assembly Clears ₦939bn 2026 Budget as Okpebholo Assents

A new financial roadmap has been formally activated in Edo State, as Governor Monday Okpebholo signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill of ₦939 billion into law.

The budget, tagged the “Budget of Hope and Growth,” was approved by the Edo State House of Assembly before receiving final assent at the Government House in Benin City.

Officials say the plan is designed to strengthen key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and public services.

Governor Okpebholo described the process leading to the passage as efficient and collaborative.

He praised lawmakers for what he called a “swift and proactive” review of the fiscal proposal.

According to him, the budget is expected to accelerate development across the state.

“This budget of Hope and Growth will move Edo State to a greater height,” the governor said during the signing ceremony.

Lawmakers Highlight Infrastructure and Agriculture

The Speaker of the House, Blessing Agbebaku, led members of the Assembly to the event.

He commended the administration for what he described as visible development efforts across Edo State.

Agbebaku said the budget prioritises agriculture and infrastructure, two sectors he described as vital to citizens’ welfare.

“Food and infrastructure are critical for the well-being of the people,” he said.

He added that ongoing and planned projects reflect a historic push for development.

Among them, he pointed to flyover constructions as landmark achievements under the current administration.

“These are projects that will define this government in history,” he noted.

Focus on Development and Public Welfare

Lawmakers also expressed confidence in the implementation of the budget.

They said the previous year’s allocations were used judiciously, according to their assessment.

The Speaker stated that Edo citizens were already benefiting from ongoing projects and reforms.

He further added that expectations for full execution in 2026 were high.

“This administration is hungry to develop Edo State,” he said.

2026 Budget Framed Around Growth

The ₦939 billion plan comes amid broader efforts by state governments in Nigeria to expand infrastructure and stimulate economic activity.

Edo State has in recent years focused on road construction, urban renewal, and agricultural expansion as part of its development strategy.

Analysts say such budgets are crucial for addressing unemployment and improving food security, particularly in states with growing urban populations.

With the 2026 budget now signed into law, attention turns to implementation.

The key test will be whether planned infrastructure and agricultural investments translate into measurable improvements in living standards.

Residents will also be watching how quickly flagship projects move from paper to physical completion.

Edo Land Use Charge Crackdown Expands

Actionable Takeaways

• Companies operating in Edo State may need to review their Land Use Charge compliance records urgently.
• Property owners should confirm outstanding obligations with EdoGIS and EIRS to avoid sanctions.
• Investors and businesses will likely monitor how transparently the enforcement process is handled.

The Edo State Government says it is preparing a wider enforcement campaign against several high-profile firms accused of failing to settle land-related taxes across the state.

Among the companies named are Dangote Group’s Okpella Cement Plant, Nigerian Petroleum Development Company, Ossiomo Power, Barnsley International, 7Up Bottling Company and Nigerian Bottling Company.

Officials in Benin City stated that the affected organisations allegedly owe accumulated property taxes, ground rents and tenement rates captured under the state’s Land Use Charge framework. Authorities warned that premises belonging to defaulters could soon be sealed if payments are not made.

The latest move signals a tougher revenue recovery drive by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration as it seeks to increase internally generated revenue for infrastructure and public projects.

Edo Land Use Charge Enforcement

According to government officials, notices had earlier been issued to affected businesses on 24 July 2025. The warnings were also circulated through national newspapers and social media platforms to notify companies and property owners of pending sanctions.

Authorities said the enforcement action follows alleged violations of Section 30 of the Land Use Charge law after repeated reminders failed to secure compliance.

The government had already sealed several commercial premises in Benin City during an earlier operation on 27 August. Officials now say the exercise will spread to Edo North and Edo Central senatorial districts.

Banks, petrol stations, major trading companies and some residential properties are also expected to face enforcement measures during the next phase of the operation.

Officials Defend Revenue Recovery Drive

Dr. Tunde Eigbiremolen, Director of Media at the Edo State Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), praised businesses and residents who regularly fulfil their tax obligations.

He said compliant taxpayers would continue to receive recognition from the government, adding that the exercise was not designed solely to punish defaulters.

According to him, the state is attempting to recover billions of naira in unpaid charges needed to fund road construction, public infrastructure and other development programmes promised by the current administration.

Why the Land Use Charge Matters

The Land Use Charge was introduced as a unified property-based tax system. It combines ground rent, property tax and tenement rates into a single payment structure managed jointly by EdoGIS and the Edo Internal Revenue Service (EIRS).

Analysts say many Nigerian states are increasingly relying on property taxation as federal allocations become less predictable. However, enforcement campaigns involving large corporations often trigger debates about transparency, valuation methods and the broader business climate.

For Edo State, the crackdown may test the balance between improving revenue collection and maintaining investor confidence in a period of economic pressure.

The Edo government’s decision to target major firms over unpaid land charges marks one of the state’s most aggressive tax enforcement drives in recent years.

While officials insist the action is necessary to fund development projects, affected companies may face mounting pressure to resolve outstanding obligations before sanctions escalate further.