The Edo State Government has announced the creation of two new regulatory bodies: the Edo State Lottery Regulatory Commission and the Edo State Ecological Funding and Management Commission.

Naijaonpoint reports that the development was confirmed in two statements released on Monday, September 29, 2025, by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor.

In the statement, the government described this as a bold step to strengthen governance, boost revenue, and safeguard the environment.

Ikhilor explained that Governor Monday Okpebholo had approved the establishment of the commissions and appointed pioneer boards to drive their affairs.

The Governor approved the establishment of the Edo State Lottery Regulatory Commission as a central authority to oversee all lottery, gaming, and related activities within the state.

The commission is expected to provide a clear legal and institutional framework for gaming operations, ensure transparency and accountability in lottery activities, protect participants by enforcing standards of fair play and responsible gaming, and generate revenue for Edo State through structured licensing and regulation of operators.

To lead the commission, the governor nominated the following:

Rt. Hon. Frank Okiye – Chairman
Dandy Imoukhuede Oserei – Member
Elvis Uadiale – Member
Ndidi Aghimien – Member
Hon. Habibat Yakubu – Secretary

The SSG explained that their names have been forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation.

“This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to creating a well-regulated gaming industry that protects consumers, enhances investor confidence, and contributes to the socio-economic development of Edo State,” Ikhilor stated.

Ecological Commission to Strengthen Climate Action

In a separate statement, the Edo State Government also announced the establishment of the Ecological Funding and Management Commission, which will serve as the legal and institutional backbone for sustainable environmental management in the state.

According to the SSG, the new commission will focus on transparent and accountable mobilisation and utilisation of ecological funds, strengthening coordination among stakeholders in environmental management, aligning Edo’s policies with national and international environmental commitments, promoting ecological sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience, and driving environmental justice for communities vulnerable to ecological challenges.

Governor Okpebholo approved the following appointments to pioneer the commission: Dr Blessing Agbomhere as the Executive Chairman, Felix Ibhade as the Executive Director (Projects), Ivie Uwaifo as Executive Director (Administration), and Khadijat Yusuf as Executive Director (Finance).

Naijaonpoint understands that their nominations have also been transmitted to the Edo State House of Assembly for confirmation.

“The establishment of this commission is a decisive step that reflects the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment for present and future generations, while positioning Edo State as a leader in climate action and sustainable development,” Ikhilor added.