Governor Monday Okpebholo has nominated Martin Anayochukwu Oli, an indigene of Enugu State, for appointment as commissioner in Edo State, in what the administration describes as part of its drive toward more inclusive governance.
The announcement was made on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, confirming Oli as a commissioner-designate whose name will be sent to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.
Oli, who comes from Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, is a businessman and community leader within the Igbo community in Edo State. He is noted for his involvement in private enterprise and grassroots initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and supporting local economic activities.
According to the state government, the nomination reflects Governor Okpebholo’s broader approach to governance, which prioritises competence and community contribution over ethnic origin. The administration also emphasised that Edo State is a diverse society made up of several ethnic groups whose participation in governance is seen as important for unity and development.
This latest nomination follows an earlier appointment of Abdulkarim Kadiri, a Hausa-Fulani community leader, as Special Adviser on Community Matters, making Oli the second non-indigene to be elevated to a key role under the current administration.
The government maintains that inclusive participation is not symbolic but intentional, aimed at ensuring that residents who contribute to the state’s growth are represented in decision-making spaces.
If confirmed by the Edo State House of Assembly, Oli will officially join the state executive council as commissioner.