Edo @ 35: Omoruyi Celebrates Resilience, Culture, Potential Of Edo People
As Edo State marks 35 years since its creation, Hon. Murphy Osaro Omoruyi, Member representing Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has congratulated the people of the state, describing the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate Edo's rich heritage, resilience and enormous potential.
In a goodwill message marking the anniversary, Omoruyi said the occasion provides an opportunity for Edo people at home and in the diaspora to reflect on the state's journey while renewing their collective commitment to building a more prosperous, peaceful and united society.
Edo State was created on August 27, 1991, following the division of the former Bendel State. Thirty-five years later, the state continues to occupy an important place in Nigeria's political, cultural, economic and social history.
According to Omoruyi, the strength of Edo State lies fundamentally in its people, whose resilience, enterprise and contributions have continued to shape the state's development.
“As Edo State marks 35 years of creation, I celebrate the resilience, strength, and remarkable spirit of our people,” he said.
He noted that Edo's historical significance, cultural heritage and human capital provide a strong foundation for the state to pursue greater development in the years ahead.
“Edo is blessed with rich culture, great minds, and enormous potential,” Omoruyi stated.
The lawmaker called on Edo people to use the anniversary not only as a moment of celebration but also as an opportunity for reflection, unity and renewed determination to address the challenges confronting the state.
He stressed that the future of Edo requires collective responsibility, effective leadership, investment in human capital and a sustained commitment to creating opportunities for citizens, particularly young people.
Omoruyi's message comes as other political leaders across the state have also used the 35th anniversary to reflect on Edo's development journey and outline their aspirations for the future. Governor Monday Okpebholo, in his anniversary message, described the occasion as a celebration of unity, resilience and shared progress, while reaffirming his administration's focus on infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and economic development.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa similarly described the anniversary as an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of Edo people and renew the collective commitment to a more prosperous future.
For Omoruyi, however, the anniversary is also a call to action, urging citizens to look beyond the celebration and contribute to building an Edo State where peace, development and opportunities are accessible to all.
“This anniversary is a moment to reflect on our journey and renew our commitment to building a more prosperous, peaceful, and united state,” he said.
The federal lawmaker, who represents the densely populated Egor/Ikpoba-Okha Federal Constituency, has previously highlighted education, youth development and human-capital investment as important areas of his constituency agenda.
His reported interventions include an annual scholarship programme for high-performing students in public secondary schools across Egor and Ikpoba-Okha. In 2024, he awarded ₦10 million to 120 students to support the purchase of textbooks and other academic materials ahead of their WAEC and NECO examinations.
Omoruyi has also sponsored a bill seeking the establishment of a Federal Institute of Technology in Ikpoba-Okha, with the proposed institution aimed at promoting technical education, research, innovation, skills development and employment opportunities for young people.
As Edo enters another chapter of its history, Omoruyi expressed optimism that the years ahead would bring increased opportunities and improved living conditions for citizens across the state.
“May the next chapter bring greater opportunities, development, and hope to every Edo citizen,” he said.
He extended his warmest wishes to Edo people at home and abroad, urging them to remain united and committed to the progress and prosperity of the state.
