A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Ikponmwosa Clement Aitusi, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for procuring and distributing 54 units of heavy-duty construction equipment to the 18 local government councils in the state.
The equipment, which includes caterpillars and graders, excavators, and rollers, was commissioned by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, before being handed over to the councils.
The items were officially presented to the Edo State chapter of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) on February 23, 2026.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Aitusi described the move as a bold and strategic intervention aimed at deepening grassroots development and strengthening the operational capacity of local governments across the state.
According to him, the availability of the heavy-duty equipment will significantly boost rural road construction, drainage rehabilitation, environmental waste management, and other community-driven infrastructural projects in the various local government areas.
He noted that for years, many rural communities had grappled with poor road networks and inadequate infrastructure due to the lack of functional equipment at the local government level.
“This intervention by Governor Okpebholo is a clear demonstration of his commitment to inclusive development. By empowering local councils with the necessary tools, he has ensured that development will no longer be concentrated in the state capital alone,” Aitusi said.
The APC chieftain further stated that the initiative aligns with the governor’s broader vision of decentralising development and enhancing service delivery at the grassroots.
He expressed optimism that with proper maintenance and effective utilisation of the machines, local governments would be better positioned to respond swiftly to infrastructure challenges and improve the quality of life for residents in rural communities.
Aitusi also urged council chairmen and other stakeholders to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper management of the equipment to maximise its impact.
He added that the initiative would not only accelerate infrastructural growth but also create employment opportunities and stimulate economic activities within local communities across Edo State.
