Cross-Over Service: Gov. Okpebholo Calls for Collaboration, Commitment, Prayers for a Better 2026
PRESS RELEASE
NO286/EDSGH/2026
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on citizens of the state to sustain their collaboration, commitment, support, and prayers to enable his administration deliver improved governance and better living conditions in 2026.
The governor made the call while speaking to journalists after attending a cross-over night service at Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), along Sapele Road, Benin City.
He was accompanied by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and other top members of the State Executive Council.
Governor Okpebholo said that with the support, collaboration, and prayers of Edo people, his administration recorded significant achievements in 2025 through the implementation of the SHINE Agenda. He expressed optimism that 2026 would be a better year with increased divine guidance and public support.
According to him, the administration’s practical and people-focused approach to governance would continue to drive growth, development, and security, while creating a business-friendly environment that would attract investors to Edo State.
He acknowledged that 2025 was a challenging year but noted that, through the grace of God and the prayers and support of the people, the state was able to overcome major obstacles. He urged Edo citizens to enter 2026 with renewed determination and courage.
The governor described 2026 as a year of hope, growth, and development for Edo State, assuring residents that his administration remains fully committed to ending cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
He said, "This is a year of hope and growth. I believe the year will be stress-free for Edo people. In 2026, insecurity will no longer be a problem. We will tackle insecurity head-on and ensure Edo State is free from cultism, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality,”
Governor Okpebholo reiterated that his administration had already declared total war on cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery, and related crimes, recording notable progress in the fight. He assured that the government would consolidate on these gains to ensure a safer Edo State in 2026.
In his cross-over sermon, the Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, congratulated worshippers on successfully crossing into the new year. He urged them not to allow circumstances dictate the pace of 2026 but to follow divine direction.
Bishop Oyedepo encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their faith, assuring them that obedience to God’s instructions would lead to victory over challenges and make 2026 a better year for the nation.
He also called on the country and its citizens to enter into a covenant with God in the new year to enjoy all-round blessings, greatness, improved security, economic progress, and freedom from life’s troubles.
SIGNED:
Ebojele Akhere Patrick PhD
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State
Thursday, 1 January 2026
