Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on Sunday, led members of the State Executive Council, religious, political leaders and other stakeholders to a thanksgiving service to mark the end of his eight-year tenure as governor of the state.
The service was done held in the newly renovated Interdenominational Government House Chapel, in Benin.
Speaking during the service, Obaseki acknowledged God and the people of the state for his achievements over the last eight years.
Obaseki said his government had addressed the diverse needs of Edo people and worked tirelessly to leave an enduring impact across all sectors, including education, healthcare and infrastructure, among others.
“As we gather here to dedicate the Government House Chapel to God and render a thanksgiving service to mark the close of my tenure, I am deeply reminded of the many ways God has held us together.
“The ways God upheld our vision and helped us to accomplish the monumental task which he set before us.
“In the past eight years, my administration had been able to address diverse needs and improve lives and service delivery to Edo people.
“Today is a day of thanksgiving as God has been our source of strength and has guided us through every challenge and given us victory in all our adversity.
“The renovation of this Chapel draws from my deep inspiration and inspiration of many others.
“I stand before you today not only as governor but conscious of the divine responsibility we all share to honour God in every area of our lives and our governance, ” he said.
Obaseki continued, “This chapel stands as a physical symbol of that commitment, a commitment to build a state on a foundation of faith, unity and reverence for God.
“It’s my hope and prayers that this Chapel will serve as a place where future leaders will seek the face of God and solace just as we have done, ” he added.
The governor acknowledged the church and religious leaders for their steadfastness, moral support, and spiritual encouragement, which helped them during their dark hours over the last eight years.
According to him, let this chapel be a place where leaders are grounded , where prayers for our people are lifted and where the vision for a brighter and prosperous future for every Edo citizen is birthed and nurtured.
“We must continue to have faith. As my tenure comes to an end, I urge each and every one of us to carry this vision of a state rooted in love, faith, and respect for one another.
“Let this place serve as a daily reminder of the divine calling upon our lives and inspire us to serve our community with passion and unwavering commitment.”
He said that the Chapel would be a house of prayers for Edo State, adding that it would be a sanctuary for future leaders of Edo State who will come to seek God’s guidance.
Obaseki was joined by his wife, Betsy, his Deputy, Engr. Marvelous Godwins, Chief Judge of Edo, Justice Daniel Okungbowa, candidate of the PDP in the 2024 governorship election, Dr Asue Ighodalo and his wife, Ifeyinwa.
Others include the Chairman of CAN, Edo State Chapter, Apostle Irekpono Omoike, Catholic Archbishop of Benin, Archbishop Augustine Akubueze, Chairman PFN, Edo chapter, Pastor Mrs Margaret Agbonifo, among others. (NAN)