Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has expanded his cabinet with the creation of 10 new ministries, bringing the total number of ministries in the state to 28. The move came just hours after the governor swore in 19 new commissioners as part of a broad administrative reshuffle aimed at strengthening governance and aligning state policy with federal priorities.
The decision, announced through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Ikhilor, marks one of the most extensive government restructurings since Okpebholo took office. According to the statement, the reorganisation is designed to ensure that the governor’s SHINE Agenda aligns seamlessly with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, enhancing coordination and delivery across key sectors.
Cabinet Reshuffle and New Portfolios
Among the notable changes, Prof. Roland Otaru, SAN, replaces Barr. Samson Osagie as Commissioner for Justice, while Prince Kassim Afegbua takes over the Information and Strategy portfolio, succeeding Barr. Paul Ohonbamu, who now heads the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The newly created ministries include Livestock Development, Mining, Power, Business, Trade and Investment, and Public Security and Safety, among others. The restructuring, according to the government, is intended to mirror the structure at the federal level and improve policy implementation at the state level.
Governor Okpebholo said the reforms would enhance administrative efficiency, improve coordination across ministries, and strengthen the capacity of the government to deliver effectively on its mandate to the people of Edo State.
Full List of Commissioners and Ministries
The expanded cabinet features a mix of technocrats, legal professionals, and former lawmakers, including Dr. Felix Akhabue (Works), Dr. Jerry Uwangue (Agriculture and Food Security), Prof. Omorodion Ikponwosa (Livestock Development), Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole (Health), and Dr. Elizabeth Ebosele (Budget and Economic Planning).
Others include Hon. Saturday Idehen (Transportation), Barr. Kenneth Ihensekhien (Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations), Godwin Eshieshi (Labour and Productivity), and Hon. Ebea Odianosen (Public Security and Safety).
With this expansion, observers say Okpebholo is consolidating his administrative machinery ahead of major policy rollouts focused on economic recovery, public safety, and local empowerment.
