In a powerful endorsement, former President Olusegun Obasanjo praised Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki as a “builder” who has transformed the lives of his people, urging Nigerian leaders to prioritise human capital development. Speaking on Wednesday at the inauguration of the newly rebuilt and expanded 250-bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City, Obasanjo lauded Obaseki’s multi-sectoral reforms and highlighted the importance of strong, compassionate leadership.
Obasanjo described the hospital as a testament to visionary governance, noting its critical role in bridging the gap between primary and specialised healthcare. “This hospital is a shining example of what can be achieved through a commitment to the well-being of our people,” he remarked. “Governor Obaseki has made an invaluable contribution, not just to Edo but to the nation, by setting a new standard in accessible and quality healthcare.”
Patience Jonathan, wife of former President Goodluck Jonathan, added her support, applauding Obaseki for restoring hope to Edo’s people and positioning the state as a leader in affordable healthcare. “You are not only a builder but a reformer who has profoundly impacted lives,” she said, emphasising the hospital’s role in honouring the legacy of Obasanjo’s late wife, Stella.
Governor Obaseki shared his vision for a robust healthcare system that goes beyond infrastructure to encompass compassion and care. He revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had been a wake-up call for Edo State’s healthcare deficiencies, prompting him to make a vow: “If God helped us through COVID-19, I would dedicate myself to transforming our healthcare for the people of Edo State.”
Over the past eight years, Obaseki’s administration has refurbished 60 primary healthcare centres, launched a comprehensive health insurance scheme covering 300,000 residents, and strengthened health financing initiatives. With the state’s newly restructured healthcare improvement scheme, Obaseki aims to make Edo a hub for medical tourism, building a world-class facility on a 20-hectare site that formerly housed the now-demolished Central Hospital.
The Governor, however, voiced concerns about political interference and governance disruptions, noting the recent detention of Edo’s Accountant-General by the EFCC, which has slowed state-funded projects. In a pointed rebuke to his critics, he warned, “As leaders, we should look beyond narrow political interests. For those undermining Edo from Abuja, I hope they never need services like those offered here.”
As he steps down, Obaseki called on future leaders to continue prioritising health, well-being, and human capital, highlighting that true service is about leaving a legacy that elevates citizens’ lives.
