Governance and Developments
Samuel Ogbemudia: Why He Remains The Greatest Governor Edo and Delta Ever Had!
Brigadier General Samuel Ogbemudia, as the Military Governor of the Mid-West Region (later Bendel State) from 1967 to 1975, laid the foundation for what is now Edo and Delta States.
His visionary leadership spanned infrastructure, education, industry, health, sports, and governance, making him one of Nigeria’s most transformational leaders.
Samuel Ogbemudia was a builder, visionary, and reformer who transformed what is now Edo and Delta States into economic and infrastructural powerhouses. His work in education, healthcare, agriculture, sports, industry, and urban development remains unmatched. Many of his universities, roads, hospitals, industries, and sports facilities still serve millions today.
Samuel Ogbemudia
His legacy as one of Nigeria’s greatest governors is undeniable, and his blueprint for development continues to inspire generations of leaders.
In this article, we highlight some of his key accomplishments as the Military Governor of the Mid-West region (what is now Edo and Delta State).
Infrastructure Development
Ogbemudia invested heavily in roads, urban planning, and government buildings, leaving behind iconic structures still in use today.
Road Construction & Drainage Systems: Built and upgraded major roads, including:
- Benin-Sapele Road (connecting Edo and Delta).
- Benin-Agbor-Asaba Road (boosting regional commerce).
- Warri-Benin Road, Asaba-Agbor Road, and Sapele-Warri Road.
- Countless inner-city roads and drainages in Benin City, Warri, and Asaba.
Urban Development:
- Developed the Benin City King’s Square (Ring Road) as a major landmark.
- Created the Warri, Asaba, and Benin urban master plans for structured city growth.
Expanded water and electricity supply to towns and rural areas.
Government Buildings:
Built the Palm House (Secretariat Building) in Benin City.
Constructed the High Court Complex to strengthen the judicial system.
Water Supply
Built the Ikpoba River Dam, ensuring a steady water supply for Benin City.
Education
Ogbemudia transformed education by establishing and upgrading schools, polytechnics, and universities.
- Founded the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in 1970, now one of Nigeria’s leading institutions.
- Established Auchi Polytechnic, providing top-tier technical education.
- Set up secondary schools known for its academic excellence such as New Era College, Benin City.
- Built and expanded several secondary schools in Benin, Warri, Asaba, Agbor, Sapele, and Ughelli.
- Upgraded technical and vocational schools, ensuring skills training for youths.
- Introduced the Physical Education Institute in Afuze, a hub for training Nigerian athletes.
Health
Ogbemudia invested in healthcare, building some of the most important hospitals still operating today.
- Established the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), a leading medical institution.
- Built and upgraded hospitals, including:
- Central Hospital, Benin (a top Edo hospital).
- Central Hospital, Warri.
- Sapele General Hospital.
- Agbor General Hospital.
- Constructed rural health centers, expanding healthcare access across the region.
Sports Development
Ogbemudia made Edo and Delta major sporting hubs, developing world-class sports infrastructure.
- Built the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium (Benin City).
- Constructed the Warri Township Stadium (now Warri City Stadium).
- Established the Bendel Sports Council, which produced top Nigerian athletes.
- Set up Physical Education Training in Afuze, producing Nigeria’s best sports coaches.
- Launched Bendel Insurance Football Club, one of Nigeria’s most successful football teams.
Industrialization & Economic Growth
Ogbemudia was a key player in industrializing Edo and Delta States, establishing factories, attracting foreign investors, and boosting local industries.
Industrial Establishments:
- Asaba Textile Mill (revitalizing the textile industry).
- Bendel Cement Company, Okpella (major cement supplier).
- Ughelli Glass Factory (boosting glass production).
- Bendel Brewery (a thriving beverage production company).
- Bendel Wood Industry (supporting the timber sector).
- Ughoton Glass Factory (industrial expansion).
- Mid Motors
- NIFOR (Nigeria Oil Pam Research Institute)
Attracted Foreign Investors:
Ogbemudia attracted companies to set up businesses in the then Bendel State. The companies include:
- John Holts
- Leventis Stores
- UTC
- UAC
- Lenards
- Bata
- Cadbury
- Nestlé
- Guinness
- Dumez
- Niger Cat
- Panalpina Shipping
- Westminster Dredging
- Nigerian Breweries
- Eleganza, etc.
Agriculture
Ogbemudia’s government revolutionized agriculture through mechanization and large-scale farming.
- Established Large-Scale Farms:
- Agbede Mechanized Farm (major food production center).
- Warake Farm Settlement (supporting agribusiness).
- Developed rubber plantations in Sapele, Abraka, and Jesse.
- Boosted palm oil production through state-supported plantations.
- Provided tractors and farming inputs to promote mechanized agriculture.
Media & Communication
Ogbemudia played a key role in developing the media industry in Edo and Delta.
- Established NTA Benin, one of Nigeria’s first state television stations.
- Founded The Nigeria Observer Newspaper, which became a leading publication.
- Set up Ethiope Publishing Company, a major book and newspaper publishing firm.
Culture and Tourism
Ogbemudia promoted local culture and tourism by developing major centers and events.
- Built the Oba Akenzua Cultural Centre (Benin City).
- Promoted Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Anioma cultural heritage through state-sponsored festivals.
- Established community cultural centers in Warri and Agbor.
- Launched the Delta Boat Regatta, which became a tourism attraction.
- Developed Ogba Zoo, which remains a key wildlife conservation center.
Hospitality & Business Development
Recognizing the need for modern hotels and business centers, Ogbemudia developed key establishments.
- Built Emotan Hotel in Benin City.
- Established Bendel Hotel, a top luxury accommodation of its time.
- Created Bendel Insurance Company, providing financial security for businesses and citizens.
Security and Governance
Ogbemudia strengthened governance and security across Edo and Delta States.
- Strengthened local government administration, creating more districts for better governance.
- Introduced community policing initiatives to curb crime and enhance security.
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