Benin City – Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday presented cheques totalling over two hundred million naira to 47 families of deceased Edo State civil servants and awarded educational scholarships to one member of each family. The ceremony, held at the Government House, Benin City, marked a new milestone in the state’s implementation of the Group Life Insurance Scheme in partnership with Tangerine Life Insurance.
Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo said the initiative was driven by humanity and a responsibility to support families who lost their loved ones in active service. He said: “It is not just about insurance. It is about goodness. The important thing is that you receive your entitlements because of the painful loss you have suffered. Today, we are supporting you further by giving scholarships to one member of each family. This is our way of ensuring you are not left behind.”
He added: “In implementing the Pension and Insurance Acts, Edo State stands out as one of the leading states, if not the leading state.” He also praised Tangerine Life Insurance for its efficiency and partnership, noting that the state has become a model for pension and insurance reforms in Nigeria.
Managing Director and CEO of Tangerine Life Insurance, Mr. Kehinde Borisade, commended the governor’s leadership, saying: “Your Excellency has shown rare leadership by caring not only for active workers, but also for the families of those who have passed on. Few states in Nigeria do this.” He revealed that Tangerine Life has paid benefits to 47 families this year alone, amounting to over ₦200 million, thanks to the governor’s support.
Later the same day, Governor Okpebholo commissioned five new vehicles donated to the Nigeria Correctional Service, Edo Command, to improve the movement of suspects and defendants to court. He said: “If inmates cannot get to court, they cannot get justice. This is why we responded immediately. The correctional centre belongs to all of us, and governance must protect the rights of every individual.” The vehicles were received by the Controller, Sunday Oyakhire, who expressed gratitude on behalf of the Correctional Service and the Controller‑General.
The governor’s actions throughout the day underscored his administration’s focus on welfare, compassion and strengthening institutions that serve the people of Edo State.
