Comrade Philip Shaibu, the Deputy Governor of Edo State, has promised to reignite the Edo spirit if elected governor of the state in 2024 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He made the promise at a brief programme in Benin City to declare his intention to contest the state governorship election next year.
According to him, “Under our administration, we have seen remarkable achievements and milestones, but there is still much work to be done.
“I am aware of the need by the greater Edo people for a more inclusive government, a government of the Edo people, by the Edo people, and for the Edo people. A government of individuals who have been there and know the pains and wishes of an average Edolite.
“A government, together, with the greater Edo people will reignite the Edo Spirit and transform our tomorrow! Since my foray into politics three decades ago, I have lived among you and you have loved me as your very own son.
“I have felt your pains at close quarters, sat with the elders to benefit from their words of wisdom, led the youth in many struggles for their rights, visibility and freedom, learned the intricacies of modern governance and built adequate service capacity.”
Alluding to his contributions to governance in his seven years as the deputy governor, he stated: “You all are witnesses to my antecedents in government. When the waters of the Lagdo dam flooded our lands and threatened our means of livelihood, I led the emergency response team that managed the impact and kept it in check and continued to be involved in most humanitarian issues within the state.
“When COVID-19 came to threaten our very existence, I put my life on the line in its very early days when protection was not available and worked to restore calm and order at the isolation centres.
“Our sporting treasure, Bendel Insurance, became my responsibility at some point within this administration. Through strategic management and relentless commitment, we have returned Bendel Insurance to the height of glory it belongs.
“When kidnappers took some of our citizens from Ubiaja and Igueben Train station, I worked with the rescue team, led the rescue mission from the front and brought back the kidnapped citizens safe and sound.
“Under my supervision as the Deputy Governor, our Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) has grown impressively; thanks to the introduction of digital and cutting-edge ideas.”
He posited that the first pillar of his agenda is infrastructural development and economic diversification by which “we will commit ourselves to building modern, sustainable infrastructure that drives economic growth and enhances our quality of life.
“By diversifying our economy, and exploring new sectors for growth, we will create more jobs and economic prosperity for all.”
Going further, he stressed that the second pillar of his agenda will be education, sports, skills development and job creation.”
He disclosed that the third and fourth pillars of his agenda is healthcare, social welfare systems, agriculture, rural development and poverty alleviation.