Benin City, May 27, 2025
The Edo State Ministry of Education today hosted its annual Children’s Day celebration at Ogbe Stadium, featuring the exciting finals of the Governors’ Cup football tournament. Under clear skies, Ogbe Secondary School secured the boys’ title, while Idia College claimed victory in the girls’ competition. Representatives from the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), led by Executive Chairman Hon. Ebanehita Sonia Omonzane, joined in supporting the festivities and celebrating the student-athletes’ achievements.
In his opening address, Commissioner for Education Dr. Paddy Iyamu framed the event within the national theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” and the state theme, “Children: Our Future, Our Responsibility.” He reiterated that education remains the cornerstone of Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE agenda—outlining the ongoing investments in school infrastructure upgrades, the deployment of digital learning tools, comprehensive teacher training, and the establishment of counselling services and child-protection units to ensure safe, nurturing learning environments.
The ceremony was further honored by the presence of his Excellency, the executive Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa (Deputy Governor), Hon. Blessing Agbebaku (Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly), Barrister Musa Ikhilor (Secretary to the State Government), and other senior government officials. Following the opening remarks, each dignitary received parade greetings from over twenty school contingents representing Edo North, Central, and South. The students—marching in precise formation and bearing banners themed to the day’s celebrations—saluted the governor in a vivid display of unity and state pride.
The event’s climax saw Governor Okpebholo personally present brand-new 18-seater buses to Ogbe Secondary School and Idia College. “These vehicles will enhance student mobility and symbolize our unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond the classroom,” the governor remarked as he handed over the keys.
As the day concluded—with medal-clad students departing amid lingering cheers—the celebration affirmed Edo State’s pledge under Project SHINE to nurture its next generation of leaders, both in academics and athletics.
