The Edo State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Adaze Aguele-Kalu, has convened the Esan South East Roundtable meeting with the Executive members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the area.
The meeting, which was the first of its kind, was aimed at addressing key development initiatives by the Edo State Government, including the ongoing technology drive and the need for fostering collaboration among the Government, the local community and the State Executive.
Speaking during the Round Table meeting at Ewohimi in Esan South East Local Government Area, the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Adaze Aguele-Kalu, emphasized the efforts of Governor Godwin Obaseki in transforming the civil and public service through various reforms and human capacity development to enhance efficiency and transparency in government operations.
She highlighted the importance of merit-based appointments, training and continuous performance evaluation to ensure quality public services.
The Commissioner further stated that the “Team Go and Verify” monitoring initiative is fully active in the State, as its efforts promote accountability, address challenges and enhance project implementation quality.
Deliberations during the Round Table meeting centred on the importance of tax collection and the fair implementation of Land Use Charges. Hon. Adaze Aguele-Kalu explained how funds are crucial for financing public projects and services, emphasizing the Government’s commitment to using these resources responsibly.
She appreciated the active participation of Esan South East LGA members and encouraged ongoing dialogue to drive positive change and development in the local government area.
The Commissioner provided an overview of how tax proceeds are being utilized to fund development projects within the Esan South East Local Government Area.
There were highlights of the completed and ongoing projects made possible in the area through the prudent allocation of resources, and over 21 projects across ten wards were critically analyzed.
Among these projects are Uhe Road, the Renovation of a Block of Six Classrooms at Eguare in Emu Primary School, Oria, ongoing Ugboha/Ubiaja Road Construction Renovations and Construction of Classrooms in Ubiaja, and Health Centre in Ubiaja, as well as the Construction of Magistrate Court.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dr Tony Aziegbemhin, expressed appreciation to participants for their presence and their commitment to the progress and growth of the party while calling for collaboration to achieve the desired goal of Esan people and Edo State.
The concept of a Joint Implementation Team was discussed as a collaborative effort to streamline, monitor and coordinate projects between the State and local governments. This approach maximizes the impact of development projects and ensures effective resource allocation.
The stakeholders who were present at the Round Table meeting include the Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Architect Joshua Omokhodion; the Commissioner for Mines and Energy, Ojeifoh Enaholo; the PDP leader from Esan North East, Joe Okojie; former State PDP Chairman, Chief Solomon Aguele; Local Government Party Chairman and Ward Leaders; traditional rulers; the entire Esan South East party Executives; past PDP leaders and over 150 Stakeholders.
