By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, recently took a decisive step to reposition youth mobilisation in the state with the resumption of office of Hon. Christopher Uhuekpeman Udobor Iyase as the new Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation.
Iyase officially resumed duties at the Government House, Benin City, on Friday January 22nd, 2026 following his appointment by Governor Okpebholo, a move widely seen as part of the governor’s commitment to accountability, peace and inclusive governance.
The new Special Adviser arrived at the Government House in the company of youths from across the state, alongside the Chairman of the Edo State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Rev. Frank Omobude, who led prayers over the office.
Speaking to journalists shortly after assuming office, Iyase described his appointment as a new beginning for youths in Edo State, stressing that his focus would be on inclusiveness, grassroots engagement and collective participation in advancing the governor’s SHINE agenda.
According to him, youth mobilisation under his leadership would move beyond elitist structures to engage “organic youths” at the grassroots across all local governments, wards and units in the state.
Iyase while assuring that no group of youths would be sidelined, said, “This is not the era of ‘I alone’. This is the time that we will all work together to ensure that the SHINE agenda of the governor is accomplished by the youths,”
He further stated that he would work closely with youth leaders at various levels to positively reorient young people and align them with the developmental vision of the Okpebholo administration.
Iyase expressed confidence in Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, describing him as a leader with genuine concern for the welfare of the people and a strong commitment to pulling Edo residents out of hardship.
The appointment of Iyase follows the removal of the former Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation, Collins Aigbogun, who was sacked by Governor Okpebholo in connection with the violent incident that occurred in Ekpoma recently.
The decision, announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor Esq, underscored the governor’s zero tolerance for actions capable of undermining peace and stability in the state.
Through appointing Iyase, Governor Okpebholo is understood to be reinforcing his administration’s resolve to recalibrate youth engagement, promote unity and ensure that youth mobilisation aligns strictly with the principles of peace, inclusiveness and responsible leadership under the SHINE agenda.
