Edo governor says recognition will strengthen his commitment to public service and implementation of SHINE Agenda
ABUJA, Nigeria — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has received the Christian Icon Award from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) as part of activities marking the association’s 50th anniversary in Abuja.
The governor received the award on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the National Christian Centre in the Federal Capital Territory, during the association’s Golden Jubilee celebration, which brought together Christian leaders, political officeholders, former government officials and other prominent Nigerians.
The recognition was presented in acknowledgement of Okpebholo’s public service and his stated commitment to ethical leadership, compassion and Christian values in governance.
Reacting to the honour, the governor expressed gratitude to CAN, describing the award as a reminder that leadership should be understood as service to the people.
In a statement reflecting on the recognition, Okpebholo said he was humbled by the award and regarded it as renewed encouragement to serve the people of Edo State and Nigeria with integrity, compassion and dedication.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to delivering practical governance and advancing development across Edo State through his administration’s SHINE Agenda.
“I am humbled to receive the Christian Icon Award from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) during its 50th anniversary celebration in Abuja,” the governor said.
“This recognition is a reminder that leadership is service and a renewed encouragement to serve the people of Edo State and Nigeria with integrity, compassion, and dedication.”
He added that his administration remained committed to practical governance and the continued development of the state.
CAN Recognises Public Service and Christian Values
According to reports from the ceremony, CAN President, Most Rev. Daniel C. Okoh, and the anniversary planning committee recognised recipients for their contributions to public service, nation-building and the promotion of Christian values.
The award was among the honours presented during the association’s anniversary activities, which marked five decades of organised Christian engagement in Nigeria.
Founded in 1976, CAN serves as an umbrella organisation for Christian denominations and fellowships across the country. Over the years, the association has participated in discussions concerning national unity, peace, religious freedom, governance and social welfare.
Its Golden Jubilee celebration provided an opportunity to reflect on the organisation’s history and the role of Christian institutions in Nigeria’s public life.
Other prominent Nigerians were also recognised during the anniversary events, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori; Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde; and several former national leaders.
Okpebholo Reaffirms Commitment to Edo Development
The governor’s response to the award placed emphasis on public service and his administration’s development priorities.
Since assuming office on November 12, 2024, Okpebholo has identified the SHINE Agenda as the policy framework guiding his administration.
The agenda focuses on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, agriculture and education, with the stated objective of improving public services and expanding development opportunities across Edo State.
The administration has presented the framework as a guide for its interventions in communities, infrastructure projects and the delivery of essential services.
Okpebholo said the recognition from CAN would encourage him to continue working towards the development of Edo State and improving the lives of residents.
The award, however, represents recognition by the association and does not in itself constitute an independent assessment of the outcomes of the governor’s policies. The administration’s progress will continue to be measured by the implementation and impact of its programmes.
Faith and Leadership in Public Service
The governor’s remarks also highlighted the relationship between personal faith and the responsibilities of public office.
By describing leadership as service, Okpebholo said the award had renewed his determination to discharge his responsibilities with integrity, compassion and dedication.
The issue of ethical leadership has featured prominently in discussions surrounding the role of religious organisations in Nigeria’s political and social development.
During CAN’s 50th anniversary activities, Christian leaders also addressed governance, national unity, accountability, security and the responsibility of public institutions to protect citizens.
The anniversary theme, “Jubilee of Justice: Faith, Governance and the Pursuit of Common Good in Nigeria,” reflected the association’s engagement with questions concerning justice, leadership and the welfare of the wider population.
SHINE Agenda Remains Administration’s Development Framework
Okpebholo reiterated that his administration would continue to pursue its development priorities through the SHINE Agenda.
The framework places emphasis on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, agriculture and education, sectors that affect economic activity, public welfare and the quality of life of residents.
The governor’s pledge comes amid public expectations for improvements in road infrastructure, access to healthcare, agricultural productivity, educational opportunities and security across the state.
As the administration continues its work, the implementation of its stated priorities and the results delivered to communities will remain important measures of its performance.
The Christian Icon Award adds to the recognition accorded to Okpebholo during CAN’s Golden Jubilee, while his response underscores his stated intention to use the honour as motivation for continued public service.
The governor concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the development of Edo State and the advancement of the welfare of its people.
IBN News
