Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has marked his first 100 days in office without launching any significant projects or initiatives to his name. In a rather unexpected development, he is scheduled to preside over the commissioning of two cutting-edge digital libraries that were actually conceived and developed by his predecessor, His Excellency Godwin Obaseki. This commissioning event is set to coincide with the celebration of Okpebholo’s first 100 days in governance.
The first of these remarkable facilities is situated within the Benin City Mall on Sapele Road, a bustling hub known for its vibrant commerce and community activity. This impressive library not only offers an extensive collection of books but also features a stunning art gallery, spacious reading areas that encourage quiet study and collaboration, and a dedicated section for reference services. Designed to serve as more than just a repository of literature, this library aspires to be a cultural epicenter, where the realms of art and education converge to inspire and enrich the local community.
The second library, strategically located at the Education Hub in Iyaro, Benin City, is designed to accommodate an astonishing 50 million academic materials. This state-of-the-art facility aims to function as a comprehensive resource center for students and researchers, providing them with unparalleled access to high-quality educational materials across various disciplines. Its vast resources are intended to support academic excellence and foster a culture of continuous learning in the region.
These digital libraries were integral to Obaseki’s visionary agenda, aimed at revolutionizing access to educational resources throughout Edo State and nurturing a culture rooted in literacy and knowledge. Given this context, Okpebholo’s decision to take active participation in the commissioning of these libraries raises significant concerns about his own contributions to the educational advancement of the state. After 100 days of leadership devoid of original initiatives, he seems to be attempting to align himself with projects that are undeniably the result of his predecessor’s foresight and hard work.
The commissioning of these digital libraries, which embody a groundbreaking commitment to educational reform and accessibility, starkly contrasts with Okpebholo’s lack of accomplishments thus far. While the facilities themselves stand as a testament to Obaseki’s dedication to enhancing educational resources, the current governor’s actions may be perceived as a desperate bid to associate himself with success that is not his own, following an uninspiring start to his tenure.
