Edo, commonly known as Edo State, is a state located in the South-South geopolitical zone of

Nigeria Nigeria ( ), , ig, Naìjíríyà, yo, Nàìjíríà, pcm, Naijá , ff, Naajeeriya, kcg, Naijeriya officially the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is a country in West Africa. It is situated between the Sahel to the north and the Gulf o ...

. As of 2006 National population census, the state was ranked as the 24th populated state (3,233,366) in Nigeria, However there was controversy over the population census figures, for example this same state that was ranked 24, population wise in 2006, was number 16 in terms of voters registration in the country in 2019, That shows strongly that the census conducted in 2006 is not a testament of reality on ground. The state population figures is expected to be about 8,000,000 in 2022. Edo State is the 22nd largest State by landmass in Nigeria. The state's capital and city, Benin City, is the fourth largest city in Nigeria, and the centre of the country's

rubber Rubber, also called India rubber, latex, Amazonian rubber, ''caucho'', or ''caoutchouc'', as initially produced, consists of polymers of the organic compound isoprene, with minor impurities of other organic compounds. Thailand, Malaysia, and ...

industry. Created in 1991 from the former

Bendel State The Mid-Western Region was a division of Nigeria from 1963 to 1991, from 1976 being known as the Bendel state. It was formed in June 1963 from Benin and Delta provinces of the Western Region, and its capital was Benin City. It was renamed a pro ...

, is also known as the heart beat of the nation. Edo State borders Kogi State to the northeast,

Anambra State Anambra State is a Nigerian state, located in the southeastern region of the country. The state was created on August 27, 1991. Anambra state is bounded by Delta State to the west, Imo State to the south, Enugu State to the east and Kogi St ...

to the east, Delta State to the southeast and southsouth and

Ondo State Ondo State ( yo, Ìpínlẹ̀ Oǹdó) is a state in southwestern Nigeria. It was created on 3 February 1976 from the former Western State. It borders Ekiti State to the north, Kogi State to the northeast, Edo State to the east, Delta Stat ...

to the west. The modern borders of Edo State encompass regions that were formerly the site of various empires and kingdoms formed in the 11th century AD, the Benin Empire. The ancient city of

Edo Edo ( ja, , , "bay-entrance" or "estuary"), also romanized as Jedo, Yedo or Yeddo, is the former name of Tokyo. Edo, formerly a ''jōkamachi'' (castle town) centered on Edo Castle located in Musashi Province, became the ''de facto'' capital of ...

, the site of modern-day Benin City, was home to some of the largest

earthworks Earthworks may refer to: Construction *Earthworks (archaeology), human-made constructions that modify the land contour *Earthworks (engineering), civil engineering works created by moving or processing quantities of soil *Earthworks (military), mi ...

in the world. In 1897, the

British Empire The British Empire was composed of the dominions, colonies, protectorates, mandates, and other territories ruled or administered by the United Kingdom and its predecessor states. It began with the overseas possessions and trading posts e ...

conducted a punitive expedition of the region, destroying most of the ancient city of Edo and incorporating the territory into what would become the Southern Nigeria Protectorate. Edo State is a diverse state that is predominantly inhabited by the Edoid peoples, including the Edo (or Bini), Esan, Owan and

Afemai people The Afemai, also spelled Afenmai, are an ethnic group living in the northern part of Edo State, South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Afemai people occupy six local government areas of Edo state: Etsako West, with headquarters in Auchi, Etsa ...

. The most common Edoid language spoken is the Edo language, which is commonly spoken in Benin City.

Christianity Christianity is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth. It is the world's largest and most widespread religion with roughly 2.38 billion followers representing one-third of the global popula ...

is the dominant religion in Edo State. It was first introduced to the region by Portuguese missionaries during the 15th century.

Islam Islam (; ar, ۘالِإسلَام, , ) is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion centred primarily around the Quran, a religious text considered by Muslims to be the direct word of God (or '' Allah'') as it was revealed to Muhammad, the ...

and traditional religions are also practised.

History

The Mid-Western Region was a division of Nigeria from 1963 to 1991, formally known as

Bendel state The Mid-Western Region was a division of Nigeria from 1963 to 1991, from 1976 being known as the Bendel state. It was formed in June 1963 from Benin and Delta provinces of the Western Region, and its capital was Benin City. It was renamed a pro ...

from 1976. It was formed in June 1963 from Benin and Delta provinces of the Western Region, and its capital was Benin City. It was renamed a province in 1966, and in 1967 when the other provinces were split up into several states, it remained territorially intact, becoming a state. During the

Nigerian Civil War The Nigerian Civil War (6 July 1967 – 15 January 1970), also known as the Nigerian–Biafran War or the Biafran War, was a civil war fought between Nigeria and the Republic of Biafra, a secessionist state which had declared its independence ...

, the

Biafra Biafra, officially the Republic of Biafra, was a partially recognised secessionist state in West Africa that declared independence from Nigeria and existed from 1967 until 1970. Its territory consisted of the predominantly Igbo-populated f ...

n forces invaded the new Mid-Western state, en route to

Lagos Lagos (Nigerian English: ; ) is the largest city in Nigeria and the second most populous city in Africa, with a population of 15.4 million as of 2015 within the city proper. Lagos was the national capital of Nigeria until December 1991 fo ...

, in an attempt to force a quick end to the war. While under

n occupation, the state was declared as the “ Republic of Benin” as Nigerian forces were to retake the region. The republic collapsed a day after the declaration as Nigerian troops overtook Benin City. Edo State was established on 27 August 1991 when

was split into Edo and Delta States.

People

With Benin City as capital, the population of the entire state is approximately 8 million. It is made up of four major ethnic groups; namely

(Binis), Owan, Esan and Afemai ( Etsako &

Akoko Edo Akoko Edo is a Local Government Area in Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is in the town of Igarra. It has an area of 1,371 km and a population of 262,110 at the 2006 census. The postal code of the area is 312. As of 2016, its population ...

). However the State has a high presence of residents from across the country and the world because of its cosmopolitan tendencies. Benin City has a history of being one of the foremost destinations of Europeans during their exploration of

Africa Africa is the world's second-largest and second-most populous continent, after Asia in both cases. At about 30.3 million km2 (11.7 million square miles) including adjacent islands, it covers 6% of Earth's total surface area ...

continent many centuries ago. Some of these flash points have remained enviable tourists’ attraction sites for the state.

Demographics

The main ethnic groups in Edo State are Bini, Etsako, Esan, Owan, and Akoko Edo. Virtually all the groups trace their origin to Benin City, hence their dialects vary with their distance from Benin City. The Bini speaking people occupy seven out of the 18 Local Government Areas of the state and constitute 57.54% of the total population. Others are as follows: Esan (17.14%), Etsako (12.19%), Owan (7.43%), and Akoko Edo (5.70%). There are also Igbira speaking communities in Akoko Edo, Itsekiri communities in Ikpoba-Okha, and

Ijaw Ijaw may refer to: * Ijaw people *Ijaw languages The Izon languages (), otherwise known as the Ịjọ languages, are the languages spoken by the Izon people in southern Nigeria. Classification The Ijo languages were traditionally considered a ...

Izons and Urhobos in Ovia North East and South West Local Government Areas, especially in the borderlands. Also, Igbo speaking communities exist in Igbanke (Ika) in Orhionmwon LGA.

Governors

Local Government Areas

Edo State consists of eighteen (18)

Local Government Areas A local government area (LGA) is an administrative division of a country that a local government is responsible for. The size of an LGA varies by country but it is generally a subdivision of a state, province, division, or territory. The phra ...

. They are: * Akoko-Edo *

Egor Egor is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters are in the town of Uselu. Egor is one of the Local Government Areas that are part of the larger metropolitan area of Benin City. It has an area of 93 km and a populati ...

* Esan Central *

Esan North-East Esan North-East (Uromi/ Uzea) is a town and Local Government Area located in Edo state of Nigeria with an estimated population of 119,346. It has an area of and a population density of (2016). Towns and villages Uromi, Egbele, Unuwazi, Utako, ...

Esan South-East Esan South East Local Government Area is a local government area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters are in the town of Ubiaja Ubiaja is a community in the Esan South-East Local Government Area (LGA), Edo State, Nigeria. It is at an altitud ...

* Esan West * Etsako Central * Etsako East * Etsako West *

Igueben Igueben is a local government area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters are located in the town of Igueben, which has an area of and a population of 69,639 according to the 2006 census. The postal code is 310. History Igueben was founded arou ...

Ikpoba-Okha Ikpoba Okha is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters are in the town of Idogbo, along Benin/Abraka Road. The LGA is made up of several towns and villages such as Evbuomodu, Uwusan, Obazagbon, Agedo, Evbumufi, Ekosa, Obadol ...

Oredo Oredo is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarter is in Benin City. Its capital city is Benin City which also is the capital city of Edo State, Nigeria. Benin City is also the capital city of the Benin Empire. The Oba of Be ...

Orhionmwon Orhionmwon is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarter is in the town of Abudu. It has an area of 2,382 km² and a population of 206,717 at the 2006 census. The postal code of the area is 301. Orhionmwon local governmen ...

* Ovia North-East * Ovia South-West * Owan East *

Owan West Owan West is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarter is in the town of Sabongidda Ora. It has an area of 732 km and a population of 97,388 at the 2006 census. The postal code of the area is 313. Wedding customs Weddi ...

Uhunmwonde Uhunmwonde is one of the Local Government Areas of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarters is in the town of Ehor. It has an area of 2,033 km and a population of 120,813 at the 2006 census. The villages in Uhunmwonde Local Government area includes; ...

Edo State House Of Assembly (Fifth Assembly) Division List, 2013

Edo State House Of Assembly Division List 2013, consists of twenty-four (24) divisions: * Akoko-Edo 1 * Ovia South-West * Orhionmwon I * Etsako East * Uhunmwode *

* Esan Central * Esan West *

Oredo West Oredo is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarter is in Benin City. Its capital city is Benin City which also is the capital city of Edo State, Nigeria. Benin City is also the capital city of the Benin Empire. The Oba of B ...

* Esan North-East I *

* Etsako West I * Owan East * Orhionmwon II * Etsako Central *

* Esan North-East II * Akoko-Edo II * Ovia North-East II *

Oredo East Oredo is a Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Its headquarter is in Benin City. Its capital city is Benin City which also is the capital city of Edo State, Nigeria. Benin City is also the capital city of the Benin Empire. The Oba of B ...

* Ovia North-East I *

Etsako West II The Anglican Diocese of Etsako was created and inaugurated on the 14th March, 2007 and is one of 13 Dioceses within the Anglican Province of Bendel, itself one of 14 provinces within the Church of Nigeria The Church of Nigeria is the Anglican ...

Edo State Judiciary

The Judiciary is the third arm of Government in the State, vested with the power to interprete the laws and resolve disputes in both civil and criminal matters in the State. The State Judiciary is headed by a Chief Judge. On the 16 of May, 2021, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki swore in Justice Joe Acha as Acting Chief Judge of Edo State, following the retirement of Justice Esther Edigin

Politics

Governor Godwin Obaseki is the current governor of Edo State and was sworn into office on the 12th November, 2016. His deputy is Rt. Hon. Comrade Philip Shaibu. The Edo State House of Assembly is the legislative body.

Languages

English is the official language of the state. The major tribal languages spoken in the state are Edo language, Igarra, Etsako/Afemai, Esan and Okpamheri. Edo State is home to several ethnicities, they are the

, Okpe, Esan, Afemai/Etsako, Ora, Akoko-Edo,

Igbanke Igbanke is an Ika people community in Edo State, Nigeria. Ika is Igbo dialects which is spoken in parts of Delta and Edo States of Nigeria. Igbanke was founded by migrants from Onitsha and Ika land. The autonomous communities in Igbanke include; ...

, Ema i. The Etsako/Afemai people of Edo state have the highest population of Muslims. They live in Six local government areas within the state and their major occupation is farming. Areal view of the ancient city of Benin

Languages of Edo State listed by LGA:

Religion Practiced In Edo State

Christianity and Islam are the major religion Practiced in Edo State, although minority of the population are traditional worshippers.

Economy

Tourist attractions in Edo State include the Emotan Statue in Benin City, Ise Lake and River Niger Beach in Agenebode, Etsako-East; Mike Akhigbe Square at fugar, Ambrose Alli Square, Ekpoma, River Niger Beaches at Ilushi, BFFM Building at

Ewu EWU may refer to: * Ewu, a town in Nigeria * East West University, a private university in Dhaka, Bangladesh * East–West University, a private university in Chicago, Illinois, United States * Eastern Washington University Eastern Washington ...

, Igun Bronze Caster at Igun Street in Benin City, College of Agriculture and Aqua Culture Technology, Agenebode,

Okpekpe Okpekpe (Okphekphe) is a town in Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. It is located about northeast of Auchi. It has a population of 3155 inhabitants. Its people belong to a homogeneous group of people, called the Afemai. ...

with its hills and scenes and the Usomege Hills at Apana-Uzairue, Somorika hills in

, where a government-run tourist center at Ososo is set among spectacular scenery. The state produces crude oil, and other mineral resources like limestone and quarry. The state has a cement factory at

Okpella Okpella is a clan situated along Benin- Abuja federal high way. Going by the last National Census figures, it has the population of 500,000, and is one of the three main towns that make up Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State. Okpella i ...

and a Flour Mill at Ewu which is moribound.

Mineral Resources In Edo State

The following are the Mineral Resources found in Edo State * Bitumen *

Clay Clay is a type of fine-grained natural soil material containing clay minerals (hydrous aluminium phyllosilicates, e.g. kaolin, Al2 Si2 O5( OH)4). Clays develop plasticity when wet, due to a molecular film of water surrounding the clay pa ...

Dolomite Dolomite may refer to: *Dolomite (mineral), a carbonate mineral *Dolomite (rock), also known as dolostone, a sedimentary carbonate rock *Dolomite, Alabama, United States, an unincorporated community *Dolomite, California, United States, an unincor ...

* Phosphate * Glass-sand *

Gold Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au (from la, aurum) and atomic number 79. This makes it one of the higher atomic number elements that occur naturally. It is a bright, slightly orange-yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile ...

* Gypsium *

Iron-ore Iron ores are rocks and minerals from which metallic iron can be economically extracted. The ores are usually rich in iron oxides and vary in color from dark grey, bright yellow, or deep purple to rusty red. The iron is usually found in the fo ...

* Lignite *

Limestone Limestone ( calcium carbonate ) is a type of carbonate sedimentary rock which is the main source of the material lime. It is composed mostly of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different crystal forms of . Limestone forms w ...

Marble Marble is a metamorphic rock composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals, most commonly calcite or dolomite. Marble is typically not foliated (layered), although there are exceptions. In geology, the term ''marble'' refers to metamorphose ...

* Oil/Gas

Education

Notable tertiary learning institutions in Edo state include: *

Auchi Polytechnic Auchi Polytechnic is a Federal Polytechnic in Auchi, Edo State, Nigeria. It is one of the first four Polytechnics established in Nigeria. It has over 10,000 students enrolled in business, technology, environmental and arts courses. Hist ...

* Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma * Benson Idahosa University, Benin City * Edo State Polytechnic Usen *

Edo Technical College Edo Technical College, sometimes referred to as Benin Technical College is a technical and vocational institution located in Edo State, Nigeria. The institution was first established in Benin City in 1970 by the Canadian government during the a ...

* Edo State University, Uzairue (formerly Edo University, Iyahmo) * Igbinedion University, Okada * Kings Polytechnic * Mudiame University, Irrua *

Samuel Adegboyega University Samuel Adegboyega University (SAU) is located in Ogwa, Edo State, Nigeria, West Africa. It was founded by The Apostolic Church Nigeria, LAWNA (Lagos, Western and Northern Areas) Territory, which has her headquarters at Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos. The ...

, Ogwa * Shaka Polytechnic * University of Benin (UNIBEN) *

Wellspring University Wellspring University is a private university, licensed by the Federal Government of Nigeria in November 2009. It is located in Benin City, Edo state, Nigeria. The university was founded by the Management Science Centre, a Professional Training ...

College of Education, Ekiadolor College of Education, Ekiadolor is a defunct government owned College of Education located in Edo State, Southern part of Nigeria. The institution was established in 1980 under the administration of Professor Ambrose Folorunsho Alli of the defunct ...

College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi College of Agriculture, Iguoriakhi is a state owned institution located at Ovia South West 7 years old institution was established by the civilian administration of late Ambrose Ali in 1981, closed by the military governors and reopened by the Lucky ...

Healthcare

List of Edo State Medical zones and associated local government areas.

Notable people

* Oba of Benin *

John Odigie Oyegun John Odigie Oyegun (born 12 August 1939) is a Nigerian politician who served as the first national chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Nigeria. He was also the Executive Governor of Edo State between 1992 and 1993, during the aborted ...

, First Governor of Edo state and former national chairman of the ruling APC * Godwin Obaseki, former chairman of the State's economic team and present Executive Governor of the State *

Jeffrey O Jeffrey Obomeghie, known as Jeffrey O, is an American educator, motivational speaker, former editor, and writer. He has served as the founding editor-in-chief of ''People's Express''. Biography Jeffrey was born in Auchi, Edo State. He was educa ...

bomeghie, chief executive officer of the International Hospitality Institute and Writer *

Erhabor Emokpae Erhabor Ogieva Emokpae, OON, (9 May 1934 – 16 February 1984) was a renowned Nigerian sculptor, muralist, graphic artist and painter who is regarded as one of the pioneers of modern arts in Nigeria. Some of his notable works include the a br ...

, pioneer of modern arts in Nigeria *Admiral Mike Akhigbe, former vice president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. * Dele Giwa, Nigerian journalist, editor and founder of Newswatch magazine. *Senator Albert Legogie, former deputy senate president in the defunct Third Republic and a pioneer member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). *Pa

Michael Imoudu Michael Athokhamien Omnibus Imoudu was a Nigerian labour union leader. Early life and education Imoudu was born in 1902, in Afemai division of Edo State. His father was a soldier in the West African Frontier Force and had served in East Africa ...

, labour leader and founder of the Nigeria state, *Chief Julius Momo Udochi, the first Nigerian ambassador to the

United States The United States of America (U.S.A. or USA), commonly known as the United States (U.S. or US) or America, is a country Continental United States, primarily located in North America. It consists of 50 U.S. state, states, a Washington, D.C., ...

, *Gen. George Agbazika Innih, who was one-time military governor of Bendel and Kwara State, * Major-General

Abdul Rahman Mamudu Major-General Abdul Rahman Alhaji Mamudu (1937 - 1992) was military Governor of Gongola State, Nigeria between July 1978 and October 1979 during the military regime of General Olusegun Obasanjo. He was an alumnus of the National Institute of Policy ...

former Commander

Nigerian Army The Nigerian Army (NA) is the land force of the Nigerian Armed Forces. It is governed by the Nigerian Army Council (NAC). The Chief of Army Staff is the highest ranking military officer of the Nigerian Army. History Formation The Nigerian ...

Signals Corps and military administrator Gongola State, * Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, cofounder of

Access Bank Plc Access Bank plc, commonly known as Access Bank, is a Nigerian multinational commercial bank, owned by Access Bank Group. It is licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria, the national banking regulator. Originally a corporate bank, they expande ...

and founder of Africa Initiative for Governance (AIG) *

Adams Oshiomhole Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole (born 4 April 1952), is a Nigerian politician and the former National Chairman of the All Progressive Congress. He had previously served as the President of Nigeria Labour Congress from 1999 to 2007 and the executive gov ...

, past president of the

Nigeria Labour Congress The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is an umbrella organization for trade unions in Nigeria. History The Nigerian Labour Congress was founded in December 1978, as a merger of four different organisations: the Nigeria Trade Union Congress (NT ...

and former governor of Edo State; he built Edo University of Iyamoh, Edo State. *Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, founder of the Believers Loveworld Nation *Prince Tony Momoh, former Minister of Information and Culture *

Maymunah Kadiri Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri is a Nigerian Nigerians or the Nigerian people are citizens of Nigeria or people with ancestry from Nigeria. The name Nigeria was taken from the Niger River running through the country. This name was allegedly coined i ...

, Nigerian mental health advocate *Commander Anthony Ikhazoboh, minister of sports and transport *Professor Ambrose Alli, former governor of the defunct Bendel State. He created the Bendel State university now named after him. *

John Momoh John Momoh (born 1 July 1957) is a Nigerian broadcast journalist and the Chairman and CEO of Channels TV, an independent and multiple award-winning 24-hour news and media television channel based in Lagos. He is widely recognized in Nigeria as a t ...

, Nigerian broadcast journalist and CEO of Channels TV *Professor

Osayuki Godwin Oshodin Osayuki Godwin Oshodin (9 August 1950 – 29 May 2022) was a vice-chancellor of University of Benin. He was professor of health education and published several journals and books concerning health and education. Oshodin was born in Benin City. ...

, former vice chancellor of University of Benin *

Jacob U. Egharevba Chief Jacob U. Egharevba MBE (1893–1981) was a Bini historian and traditional chief whose writings specialized in the history of Benin Kingdom. Life Early life Egharevba was born in Idanre, Ondo State, His father was related to Ohenmwen, Iyase ...

, a Bini historian and traditional chief * Dr Samuel Ogbemudia, former governor of the midwest region of Nigeria and later Bendel state *Chief

Anthony Enahoro Chief Anthony Eromosele Enahoro (22 July 1923 – 15 December 2010) was one of Nigeria's foremost anti-colonial and pro-democracy activists. He was born the eldest of ten children in Uromi, present-day Edo State of Nigeria. His Esan parents w ...

, anti-colonial and pro-democracy activist and politician *Professor Festus Iyayi, novelist and first African to win the

Commonwealth Writers Prize Commonwealth Foundation presented a number of prizes between 1987 and 2011. The main award was called the Commonwealth Writers' Prize and was composed of two prizes: the Best Book Prize (overall and regional) was awarded from 1987 to 2011; the Best ...

Odia Ofeimun Odia Ofeimun (born 16 March 1950)"Biography: Odia Ofeimun, Nigeria"
Badilisha Poetry X ...

, poet and former president of the Association of Nigerian Authors *Dr

Abel Guobadia Sir Abel Guobadia OFR (28 June 1932 – 4 February 2011) was an educator, administrator, diplomat and retired public servant. Education Abel Guobadia was born on 28 June 1932, in Benin City, Nigeria. He attended C.M.S. Primary Schools in Benin ...

, educator and former Nigerian ambassador to the Republic of Korea, former Chairman

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(INEC) *General

Godwin Abbe Godwin Osagie Abbe (born 10 January 1949) in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria is a retired Nigerian Army Major General and former Defence Minister of Nigeria from 2009 to 2010. He served as the Nigerian Minister of Interior from 2007 to 2009. ...

, former Nigerian Minister for Interior and Defence *

Archbishop John Edokpolo John Enoyogiere Edokpolo (9 October 1918 – 17 June 1996) was a Nigerian businessman in the rubber industry and founder of Edokpolo Grammar Schools in Benin City, Nigeria. Edokpolo was also a property developer who created a number of residen ...

, founder of Edokpolo Grammar Schools and Political Activist *Sir Victor Uwaifo, musician *Archbishop

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, Pentecostal Church Leader *

Sonny Okosun Sonny Okosun (1 January 1947 – 24 May 2008) was a Nigerian musician, who was known as the leader of the Ozzidi band. He named his band Ozzidi after a renowned Ijaw river god, but to Okosun the meaning was "there is a message". His surname is ...

, musician * Augustine Eguavoen, former professional Nigerian footballer and coach * Felix Idubor, artist * Festus Ezeli, basketball player formerly with the Golden State Warriors * Modupe Ozolua, body enhancement and reconstructive surgery *Chief

Tony Anenih Tony may refer to: People and fictional characters * Tony (given name), including a list of people and fictional characters * Gregory Tony (born 1978), American law enforcement officer * Motu Tony (born 1981), New Zealand international rugby leag ...

, chairman of board of trustees (PDP) Once Minister of Work. *

Gabriel Igbinedion Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion (born 11 September 1934) is a Nigerian businessman and traditional aristocrat from Okada Town in Edo State. He holds the chieftaincy title of the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. Esama of Benin The title ''Esama'' t ...

, international business mogul and bini high chief and owner of ITV *

Raymond Dokpesi Chief Raymond Anthony Aleogho Dokpesi (born 25 October 1951) in Ibadan is a Nigerian media entrepreneur. His parents are from Agenebode, Edo state in a family including six sisters siblings. He entered the Nigerian mass media industry with h ...

, owner of Africa largest private television network and politician * Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, film director, screenwriter and producer *

Suyi Davies Okungbowa Suyi Davies Okungbowa (born Osasuyi Okungbowa in 1989) is a Nigerian fantasy, science fiction and speculative writer and academic. He is the author of The Nameless Republic epic fantasy trilogy, beginning with ''Son of the Storm'' (Orbit, May 202 ...

, fantasy and speculative fiction author *Osaze

Peter Odemwingie Peter Osaze Odemwingie (born 15 July 1981) is a retired Nigerian professional footballer who played as a forward and winger. Odemwingie grew up in Uzbekistan and Russia and began his career with Bendel Insurance in the Nigeria Premier League. ...

, professional footballer *

Chris Aire Christopher Aire (born December 25, 1964) is a Nigerian born African American jeweler and timepiece designer. He is the president of Solid 21 Incorporated and the founder of his eponymous brand, Chris Aire. Early years Chris Aire was born in I ...

-Iluobe, jeweler and timepiece designer * Francis Edo-Osagie, businessman * Kamaru Usman, professional mixed martial artist, former UFC Welterweight Champion. * Yakubu Ayegbeni, former professional footballer *

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, musician signed to Mavin Records, *

Philip Shaibu Philip Shaibu (born 1 December 1969, in Kaduna) an alumnus of University of Jos is a Nigerian politician. He is currently the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Nigeria. Personal life and education Early childhood Shaibu was born in Kaduna to a Ch ...

(born 1 December 1969, in Kaduna) an alumnus of

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is a Nigerian lawmaker, politician and business man. He is currently the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Nigeria. * Eghosa Asemota Agbonifo, politician, coordinator of Michael Agbonifo shoe a child foundation *Prof T. M. Yesufu, pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the University of Benin, economist. * Odion Jude Ighalo, Nigerian professional footballer. * Victor Osimhen, Nigerian professional footballer. *

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, Nigerian socio-political activist. *

Yvonne Jegede Yvonne Jegede is a Nollywood, Nigerian actress, film producer, model, and television personality; notable for producing ''3 is Company''. She rose to prominence after she made a cameo appearance in the music video ''African Queen (song), African ...

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television Television, sometimes shortened to TV, is a telecommunication medium for transmitting moving images and sound. The term can refer to a television set, or the medium of television transmission. Television is a mass medium for advertising, ...

personality; notable for producing ''3 is Company''. *

Zakariyau Oseni Zakariyau Idrees-Oboh Oseni, (born 20 December 1950) is a prominent Arabic and Islamic Studies Scholar, an Imam and a poet from Nigeria. He was trained at the University of Ibadan where he obtained a Certificate in Arabic & Islamic Studies ( ...

, prominent professor of Arabic and a scholar of

Islamic studies Islamic studies refers to the academic study of Islam, and generally to academic multidisciplinary "studies" programs—programs similar to others that focus on the history, texts and theologies of other religious traditions, such as Easter ...

, guardian of

Arabic language Arabic (, ' ; , ' or ) is a Semitic language spoken primarily across the Arab world.Semitic languages: an international handbook / edited by Stefan Weninger; in collaboration with Geoffrey Khan, Michael P. Streck, Janet C. E.Watson; Walter ...

and literature, an imam and poet. *

Mike Ozekhome Mike Agbedor Abu Ozekhome (born on October 15, 1957 in Iviukwe, Agenebode in Edo State, Nigeria) is a lawyer and human rights activist, holding the rank of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. He is known for his work as a constitutional lawyer and also ...

, legal practitioner and a human rights activist. * Mike Oghiadomhe, chief of staff to President

Goodluck Jonathan Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan (born 20 November 1957)Lawson Heyford, ''The Source'' (Lagos), 11 December 2006. is a Nigerian politician who served as the President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015. He lost the 2015 presidential election to fo ...

in 2014. *

Solomon Arase Solomon Ehigiator Arase (born 21 June 1956) is a retired Nigerian police officer. He is currently the Chairman of the Nigeria Police Service Commission. He was appointed Chairman in January 2023 by President Muhammadu Buhari. Arase also served ...

, former and 18th inspector general of police in Nigeria under President Goodluck Jonathan government. * Julius Aghahowa, former professional footballer for Nigeria. *

Sam Loco Efe Sam Loco Efe (25 December 1945 – 7 August 2011), born Sam Loco Efeeimwonkiyeke in Enugu, was a Nigerian actor, producer and director. Early life and education Efe was born in Enugu, the son of Arase Efeimwonkiyeke, a warder. His father was ...

(1945-2011), former Nollywood veteran actor and producer. *Admiral

Augustus Aikhomu Augustus Akhabue Aikhomu (20 October 1939 – 17 August 2011) was an Admiral in the Nigerian Navy, who served as the ''de facto'' Vice President of Nigeria under military head of state General Ibrahim Babangida from 1986 to 1993. Early life ...

, former chief of staff in the General Ibrahim Babangida administration. * Helen Paul, stand-up comedian and actress and popularly known as Tatafo. One time face of the Telecom consumer by the

Nigerian Communications Commission The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is the independent regulatory authority for the telecommunications industry The telecommunications industries within the sector of information and communication technology is made up of all telecommuni ...

(NCC). * Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, film director and Nollywood producer. Established the first Benin film academy at

Igbinedion University Igbinedion University, Okada (IUO) is a privately owned university in Nigeria ( West Africa). It was founded and established on 10 May 1999, following the Certificate of approval by the Federal Government of Nigeria with the Certificate No. 0 ...

, Okada, Edo State. *Hon.

Joe Edionwele Joseph Eghonghon Edionwele is a politician and member of the 8th and 9th Assembly representing Esan Central/Esan West/ Igueben Federal Constituency, Edo State. He is popularly known as Joe Edionwele. Early life and education Hon. (Chief) Joe wa ...

, a politician and member of the 8th and 9th National Assembly, Nigeria representing Edo Central Senatorial District *

Lucky Igbinedion Lucky Nosakhare Igbinedion (born 13 May 1957) was the governor of Edo State in Nigeria from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2007. He is a member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). Early life and education Lucky is a son of Gabriel Igbinedion, Esama ...

a politician and former democratic governor of Edo State. * Oserheimen Osunbor, a lawyer and one time Governor of the State. He is from Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. *

Osagie Ehanire Osagie Emmanuel Ehanire (born 4 November 1945) is a Nigerian medical doctor and politician. He was appointed Minister of Health in President Muhammadu Buhari administration in November 2019. Following the submission of the ministerial nominees ...

Nigerian medical doctor and politician *

Skales Raoul John Njeng-Njeng (born 1 April 1991), better known by his stage name Skales (an acronym for Seek Knowledge Acquire Large Entrepreneurial Skills), is a Nigerian rapper, singer, and songwriter. In 2000, he started writing rap songs in Kadun ...

Nigerian rapper, singer and songwriter. *

Nancy Isime Nancy Isime (born 17 December 1991) is a Nigerian actress, model, and media personality. Early life and background Nancy Isime was born in Edo State, Nigeria to Nigerian parents of Esan descent. After her senior secondary education in Benin, sh ...

Nigerian Actress, model and media personality. * Adesua Etomi Nigerian Actress *

Queen Blessing Ebigieson Queen Blessing Ebigieson (born 14 April 1980) is a Nigerian veteran actress and filmmaker. She won the ''Best Actress (Indigenous)'' award and the ''Best Film (Indigenous)'' award for her production of Ileri Ife at the 2016 Eko International F ...

Nigerian Actress * BB02 Nigerian Musician *

Peter Akpatason Peter Akpatason (born November 28, 1964) is a Nigerian politician representing Akoko-Edo constituency of Edo State Edo, commonly known as Edo State, is a state located in the South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria. As of 2006 National popul ...

, a politician

References

External links

*
Edo State Open Data PortalEdo State Civil Service Commission
{{Portal bar, Nigeria States of Nigeria States and territories established in 1991 1991 establishments in Nigeria