Governor Okpebholo reintroduces Edo languages into school curriculum to preserve culture and boost indigenous knowledge across Edo State

Edo languages have been reintroduced into the school curriculum across Edo State, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo announced during a recent meeting with the Esan Okpa Initiative leadership at Government House, Benin City.

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The move is part of Okpebholo’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich cultural heritage and promoting indigenous knowledge.

Speaking to the delegation, which included technocrats, business leaders, and community stakeholders, the governor emphasised the importance of starting language education from home to prevent the extinction of local languages.

In addition to this cultural revival, the governor revealed intensified efforts to rehabilitate schools, promising new desks, renovation, boreholes, toilets, and solar lighting installations.

A school access programme to give children hands-on computer experience is also underway.

Okpebholo described the Esan people as a “critical pillar” to his administration’s success and expressed gratitude for their unwavering support.

He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitation and the procurement of 50 compressed natural gas buses to improve public transportation.

On health, the administration has completed or rehabilitated 65 primary healthcare centres, enhancing access to quality care statewide.

Security remains a priority, with new equipment purchased, a mobile barracks being built, and plans to decentralise security operations, including training and employing local personnel and hunters.

The Esan Okpa Initiative’s president, Mathew Egbadon, applauded the governor’s achievements and strongly advocated for reintroducing the Esan language into schools.

He pointed out that this aligns with the 2022 National Language Policy, which encourages the use of indigenous languages as the medium of instruction in early primary education.

Egbadon also praised Okpebholo’s leadership in education, infrastructure, and employment, noting Edo’s inclusion in a ₦142 billion federal modern bus terminal project as evidence of the state’s rising prominence under his governance.

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Governor Okpebholo’s efforts since assuming office nearly a year ago have markedly improved education, infrastructure, and security in Edo State, setting a foundation for lasting development.