Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the reintroduction of Edo languages into the state’s school curriculum as part of his administration’s efforts to preserve the rich cultural heritage and promote indigenous knowledge among young learners.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Thursday, Governor Okpebholo said the move aligns with his government’s vision of restoring pride in local identity and ensuring that no indigenous language goes into extinction.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Esan Okpa Initiative at Government House, Benin City, the governor emphasised that the teaching of Edo languages must begin from home and continue in schools. “We will reintroduce the teaching of Edo languages in our school system. Let every tribe begin to learn and speak their language so that no language goes into extinction,” he said.

Okpebholo also directed the Ministry of Education to intensify ongoing school rehabilitation efforts, including the provision of seats, desks, toilets, boreholes, and solar lights. He revealed plans to expand computer access programmes that will enable students to gain practical experience in technology.

Highlighting his administration’s progress, the governor disclosed that 65 primary healthcare centres have been completed or renovated, 50 Compressed Natural Gas buses have been ordered to boost public transportation, and massive road construction projects are ongoing across the state. He also pledged improved security, announcing the establishment of a new mobile police barracks and the engagement of local hunters to strengthen community safety.

President of the Esan Okpa Initiative, Mathew Egbadon, commended the governor for his achievements in less than a year in office, particularly in education, infrastructure, and employment generation. He applauded the reintroduction of Edo languages, noting that it aligns with the Federal Government’s 2022 National Language Policy, which promotes indigenous languages as a medium of instruction in early education.

Egbadon described Okpebholo’s leadership as visionary and people-oriented, adding that Edo’s inclusion in the ₦142 billion modern bus terminal project is a testament to the governor’s growing influence on national development.