Gov Okpebholo Appoints SSG, Nominates Osagie and Oshiomhole’s Son for Cabinet Posts

Newly sworn-in Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has made significant appointments within hours of assuming office on Tuesday. Among these key appointments, Barrister Musa Ikhilor has been named the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).

The governor also nominated Dr. Samson Osagie as the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole as the Commissioner for Health. Dr. Cyril is the son of former Edo Governor and current Senator for Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole.

In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo outlined his intentions to forward the nominations of Osagie and Oshiomhole to the Edo State House of Assembly for confirmation. “These appointments reflect a commitment to service and experience. Our nominees bring a wealth of expertise and dedication to their roles,” the statement noted.

Dr. Samson Osagie Brings Legal Expertise to Attorney-General Role

Dr. Samson Osagie, the Attorney-General nominee, has a distinguished career in law. Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1995, Osagie has served as a two-term member of both the Edo State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives, where he held the position of Minority Whip. He is the current Vice President of the African Bar Association (West African Region).

Osagie’s extensive education includes a degree in Law from Obafemi Awolowo University, a certificate from the Nigerian Law School, and multiple Master’s degrees in Law, Public Administration, and International Relations. He also holds a Doctorate in Political Economy and Development Studies. Reflecting on his nomination, Osagie expressed his gratitude: “I am honored to be considered for this role. If confirmed, I will serve with dedication and a deep commitment to justice.”

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole Nominated for Health Commissioner

Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, nominated as the Commissioner for Health, has a strong background in medicine and public health. His educational journey started at St. Anne’s Primary School and Command Secondary School, leading to a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) from Ahmadu Bello University. He pursued further studies in public health, earning a Master of Science in Public Health from Tulane University and undergoing postgraduate training in Clinical Research at Harvard University. He also specialized in Gastroenterology at Queen Mary University, London.

Dr. Oshiomhole expressed his enthusiasm for the role, saying, “Healthcare is the bedrock of any society. I am committed to improving the health outcomes of every resident of Edo State.”

Barr. Musa Ikhilor Appointed Secretary to the State Government

Barrister Musa Ikhilor, the newly appointed SSG, brings over 11 years of experience in legislative drafting, parliamentary administration, and governance. Born in 1980, Ikhilor graduated with an LL.B from Ahmadu Bello University and later earned a Master’s degree in Telecommunications Law from the same institution. He has held various roles in the National Assembly, including serving as a consultant on the 1999 Constitution review and providing advisory services to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In 2022, Ikhilor was appointed as a Notary Public by the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He is also actively involved in legal practice and social work through Springfield Legal Consult and the Amana Legacy Foundation. Commenting on his new role, Ikhilor stated, “I am humbled by the governor’s trust in me and will work tirelessly to support the administration’s goals.”

Governor Okpebholo’s appointments reflect a blend of experience and youth, aiming to steer Edo State towards growth and development. The nominated officials are expected to play pivotal roles in the administration’s plans to improve governance, healthcare, and justice delivery. The Edo State House of Assembly will now review the nominations for final confirmation.