This development was contained in two separate statements issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.
According to the statement, Dr. Blessing Agbomhere has been appointed as the Executive Chairman of the newly inaugurated Ecological Funding and Management Commission. Other appointees to the commission include Felix Ibhade as Executive Director (Projects), Ivie Uwaifo as Executive Director (Administration), and Khadijat Yusuf as Executive Director (Finance).
“The Edo State Government wishes to inform the general public that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has approved the establishment of the Ecological Funding and Management Commission to serve as a legal and institutional framework for promoting sustainable environmental management in Edo State,” the statement read.
It further explained that the commission is a strategic step toward ensuring transparency and accountability in the allocation and utilization of ecological resources. It is also expected to boost coordination among relevant stakeholders, align the state’s environmental policies with national and international standards, and advance goals
such as climate resilience, biodiversity protection, and environmental equity.In a related development, Governor Okpebholo also sanctioned the establishment of the Edo State Lottery Regulatory Commission, which is set to become the central authority overseeing lottery and gaming activities within the state.
The Lottery Regulatory Commission, according to the government, will be tasked with providing a structured legal framework to regulate all gaming operations. It is expected to promote transparency, enforce integrity in lottery practices, protect the interests of participants, and ensure responsible gaming. Additionally, the commission is expected to contribute to the state’s revenue through the effective licensing and regulation of operators.
“To this end, His Excellency has approved the appointment of the following individuals to pioneer the affairs of the Commission,” the statement said.
Former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye, was named Chairman of the new commission. Also appointed to the board are Dandy Imoukhuede Oserei, Elvis Uadiale, and Ndidi Aghimien as members, while Hon. Habibat Yakubu will serve as Secretary.
The statement further noted that the list of appointees for the Lottery Regulatory Commission will be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.
