Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, former governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Tambuwal and ex-governors of Edo: Chiefs Lucky Igbiendion and John Odigie-Oyegun, among other prominent leaders, yesterday celebrated Governor Godwin Obaseki’s achievements in eight years.
They hailed him for his commitment to the welfare of Edo residents, prioritising reforms and projects across sectors of the state’s economy, including health, education and infrastructure, among others, which had impacted and improved lives.
The leaders spoke when Obaseki led them to the inauguration of the rebuilt and expanded 250-bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital on Sapele Road; the Crèche and Food Court at Edo State secretariat complex, among other projects, in Benin.
Obasanjo, hailing Obaseki for his multi-sectoral reforms over the last eight years, described the Edo governor as a builder, who impacted on the lives of the residents.
He said: “I want to thank you for remembering my late wife, Stella Obasanjo. I was here before and coming here now, what I see is wonderful. You are not only a builder, but you are a reformer, who has positively impacted on the lives of the people.
“I commend you for improving on some of the things your predecessor did, like this Stella Obasanjo Hospital.
“When this hospital was established 17 years ago, it was to keep the memory of my late wife. By honouring her, you are also honouring me.”
Describing Edo governor as a pacesetter, Chief Obasanjo advised political leaders to always focus on quality and efficient service delivery in whatever responsibility given to them at the local, state and national levels, with a focus on human capital development.
Dame Jonathan said Obaseki had restored hope to Edo residents, while repositioning the state as a hub for quality and affordable health care services in the country.
She said: “The rebuilt Stella Obasanjo Hospital is a testament to the power of a visionary leader, and a commitment to building a strong, healthy state and nation.
“This hospital has become a shining example of what can be accomplished for the well-being of our people. We commend you for this great effort, and we can see the realisation of your dreams to deliver quality and accessible health care.
“This is a testament of establishing Edo State as a regional hub, in terms of quality and affordable health care services, thereby bringing hope to Edo people.”