Okpebholo Rolls Out Massive Farm Machinery, Seeks Answers on MOWAA Project

News in brief:

-Edo State has unveiled its largest-ever agricultural mechanisation investment, including tractors, bulldozers and farm implements aimed at boosting commercial agriculture.

-Governor Okpebholo also used the event to renew calls for accountability regarding the MOWAA project and the repatriation of former governor Godwin Obaseki.

Edo State recently marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of its largest single agricultural mechanisation investment in its history. The initiative emphasises Governor Monday Okpebholo’s vision to reposition Edo as a leading hub for commercial agriculture and food security in Nigeria.

The commissioning ceremony, held at Government House in Benin City, was presided over by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who visited the state alongside several federal lawmakers.

Massive Deployment of New Machinery

During the event, the state government unveiled a robust lineup of equipment: 30 new tractors, five bulldozers, 150 agricultural implements, and one lowbed truck.

Governor Okpebholo explained that the acquisition forms a core component of his agricultural transformation agenda, which aims to open new farmlands, attract agribusiness investments, reduce post-harvest losses, and create jobs for youths and women.

“This is a strategic investment that will change the trajectory of Edo’s economy,” he said. “We are laying the foundation for food sufficiency, commercial-scale farming, and long-term prosperity for our people.”

He added that the initiative signals a decisive shift from subsistence farming to full-scale mechanisation, positioning the state as a consistent contributor to Nigeria’s national food reserves and reducing vulnerability to economic shocks.

Political Undercurrents and Renewed Accountability Push

While the event focused on policy and development, it also touched on Edo’s ongoing discourse on political accountability. Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and responsible management of public funds, referencing concerns surrounding the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) project. He again called for the repatriation of former governor Godwin Obaseki to “answer critical questions” related to the project.

In response, Senate President Akpabio said the Federal Government would review the state’s submissions and ensure that due process guides any further action.

Goodwill messages from senior political figures, including Edo Assembly Speaker Blessing Agbebaku, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole, praised the mechanisation drive as a defining moment in Edo’s economic renewal.

They commended Governor Okpebholo for centring agriculture within his development strategy. This investment serves as proof of Edo’s emergence as one of the most forward-thinking agricultural states in the country.