Obaseki Lays Foundation for Edo Polytechnic School of Mining and Management, Launches Digital Resource Center
Edo State Governor Lays foundation for Edo Polytechnic School of Mining and Management
Faith Orji 
Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has officially laid the foundation for the School of Mining and Management, a new campus of Edo State Polytechnic Usen, located in Igarra, Akoko Edo Local Government Area.
The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the local workforce in the Nigerian extractive industry, with a focus on international collaborations, particularly with polytechnics in China.
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During the groundbreaking ceremony held on July 24, 2024, Obaseki emphasized the school's role in addressing the skills gap in the mining and petroleum sectors. “This school aims to be among the best in Nigeria and West Africa for mining education. It’s a strategic initiative to ensure our youth gain the technical expertise needed for careers in mining,” Obaseki stated.
The Governor highlighted that the new institution will leverage resources from both the government and local mining companies to provide high-quality education and practical training. “Our goal is to train local talent so they can fill jobs within the industry, rather than relying on external professionals,” he added.
Obaseki’s administration has prioritized educational development as a key aspect of its governance, evidenced by past initiatives such as the EdoBEST program, which aims to standardize quality education across the state. “Education is the greatest development we can offer. By investing in technical education and polytechnics, we’re preparing our youth for meaningful employment,” Obaseki remarked.
In addition to the new school, the Governor inaugurated a Digital Resource Center in Akoko Edo. This center is set to enhance digital literacy and connectivity for students and local residents. “With fiber optics now connecting all local government areas, this center will provide free Wi-Fi, digital training, and an E-library,” Obaseki announced.
The ceremony also saw the Otaru of Igarra Kingdom, His Royal Highness Oba Emmanuel Adeche Saiki II, confer a Chieftaincy title upon Governor Obaseki. The title of Kasime of Igarra Kingdom was awarded in recognition of the Governor's contributions to the region’s development. Obaseki expressed his gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the significant impact of the new educational institutions on the local community.
Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe, Edo State Commissioner for Education, praised the occasion as a landmark event for the local government area, while the Otaru’s Secretary, Chief Folorunsho Dania Festus, commended the Governor for his transformative policies and dedication to the region.
The event was marked by a series of congratulatory messages from notable figures, including Edo State Deputy Governor Engr. Godwin Omobayo, Commissioner for Mining and Energy Hon. Ojiefoh D. Enaholo, Akoko Edo Local Government Chairman Tajudeen Alade-Suleman, and the Rector of Edo State Polytechnic, Usen, Sylvester Omoruyi.
This new initiative underscores the state’s commitment to building a skilled workforce and fostering sustainable development in the mining sector, promising to open up significant opportunities for both students and the local community.
