The Edo State Government on Monday signed an agreement with a Chinese firm for a 10 million metric tonnes cement plant, expected to generate employment and boost industrial growth in the state.

The State Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua, who disclosed this during a media briefing on Monday, said the plant, when completed, would also boost the economy of the state.

He said the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration has moved beyond “rhetoric,” stressing that residents can now “see and feel” tangible development across Edo South, Central, and North senatorial districts.

He noted that ongoing infrastructure projects, civil service reforms, and increased revenue generation are clear evidence of progress across the state.

He said, “The government recently signed an agreement with a Chinese firm for a 10 million metric tonnes cement plant, expected to generate employment and boost industrial and economic growth.

“The state government programmes are there for everyone to see. This administration has moved beyond rhetoric, and it is embarking on projects in the three senatorial districts of the state.”

Afegbua attributed improved funding to increased federal allocations following fuel subsidy removal, as well as growth in internally generated revenue, which he said now averages between N9.5bn and N10bn monthly.

According to him, the government has embarked on wide-ranging reforms, including the digitisation of governance through a new e-governance platform designed to enhance transparency and efficiency in ministries, departments, and agencies.

He disclosed that the previous e-governance system was abandoned due to a lack of access, but has now been replaced with a more “interactive and inclusive” platform expected to be launched soon.

On civil service reforms, the official said over 1,000 workers have been employed, while promotions previously stalled for up to eight years have been addressed.

“We have restored confidence in the civil service. Promotions are ongoing, salaries are paid promptly, and the system is now more robust,” he said.

The government also highlighted investments in infrastructure, including road rehabilitation, school upgrades, and healthcare improvements, noting that about 35 primary healthcare centres have been completed and equipped.

He added that ongoing work along the Benin–Auchi road corridor has improved visibility and contributed to reducing incidents of kidnapping.

In the area of security, the state said it is strengthening collaboration with security agencies, establishing camps for personnel, and deploying local intelligence networks to curb criminal activities.

The administration further disclosed plans to introduce 100 Compressed Natural Gas buses to ease transportation costs, with 50 expected to provide free services. He also highlighted continued investment in agriculture, with increased participation in cassava, rice, and oil palm production.