Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo has assured residents that his administration will continue to protect lives and property, as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

Okpebholo, in a message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, said security remained the administration’s primary responsibility because farming, trade, investment and other economic activities depended on a peaceful environment.

The governor said his administration had worked to improve security across the state while pursuing projects in roads, healthcare, education and other sectors.

He said the government would continue to work with security agencies, traditional rulers and community leaders to strengthen security, given their knowledge of local communities and terrain.

Okpebholo also said his administration was implementing programmes under its SHINE Agenda in healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and education.

He cited the reopening of several hospitals that had been closed for years and the enrolment of more than 600,000 residents in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme.

The governor also said salaries were being paid regularly and noted that Edo was among the states implementing the N75,000 minimum wage.

He acknowledged that more work remained to be done, describing the administration’s achievements as a foundation for further development.

Okpebholo urged Edo residents to use the Independence Anniversary to recommit themselves to peace and unity, stressing the importance of protecting public property and treating one another responsibly.

Similarly, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and work towards building a stronger, united and prosperous nation.

Idahosa, in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, said October 1 should remind Nigerians of the courage and sacrifices of the generation that secured the country’s independence in 1960.

He said Nigeria had demonstrated resilience despite its challenges, adding that the country’s diversity and people remained important sources of strength.

The deputy governor urged citizens to uphold unity, peace, justice, democracy and shared prosperity.

He also reaffirmed the Edo Government’s commitment to improving the lives of residents through investments in security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture and human capital development.

Idahosa said nation-building required patience, sacrifice and responsible citizenship, urging Nigerians to work together and place the national interest above their differences.

He congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for continued peace, unity, prosperity and progress across the country.