Edo State Government and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have advanced discussions on a strategic partnership that is focused on infrastructure development, urban renewal, youth employment, and human capital advancement.
Om the sidelines of the 2025 National Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Summit at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, a delegation from the State Government led by the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Emmanuel Okoebor, met with an AfDB team headed by Dr. Solomon Quaynor, Vice President for Infrastructure, Industrialization and Private Sector Development, alongside Dr. Abdul Kamara, AfDB’s Director General for Nigeria.
The Edo State delegation presented its long-term development framework, “SHINE” — an acronym for Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Education — which underscores the agenda of Governor Monday Okpebholo to drive inclusive economic growth and investment-led transformation across the state.
The dialogue focused on designing bankable, impact-driven investment pipelines in key sectors such as urban transportation, integrated city development, climate-resilient infrastructure, and youth-focused skill acquisition programs.
Discussions highlighted the importance of leveraging AfDB’s technical expertise and financial instruments to unlock private-sector-led economic opportunities in both urban and rural parts of Edo State.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Mr Okoebor stressed that Edo State’s engagement with AfDB is rooted in mutually beneficial investment, not dependency.
“Edo State is open for business, not out of desperation, but from a position of strategy, vision, and clear-headed governance. We are seeking investment partnerships that align with our long-term aspirations for shared prosperity,” he affirmed.
AfDB officials commended the government’s clear reform agenda and willingness to collaborate with international institutions to deliver impact at scale. They expressed optimism about deepening support in areas where the state is demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to results-driven development.
As both parties move toward firming up areas of cooperation, Edo State reiterated its commitment to building a future-oriented, resilient economy through strategic partnerships with global institutions like the Afr
ican Development Bank.
