Notable personalities across the country including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan, and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, on Wednesday stormed Edo state to celebrate the achievements of Godwin Obaseki’s eight years in office as governor.

The leaders gathered in Benin City, the state capital, where Governor Obaseki led them to inaugurate several major projects, including the newly rebuilt 250-bed Stella Obasanjo Hospital, a Crèche, and a Food Court at the State Secretariat Complex.

The event also saw attendance from various dignitaries, such as Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, Minister of Health, represented by the Chief Medical Director of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Professor Darlington Obaseki; Edo State First Lady Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Osaigbovo Iyoha; and several other notable figures, including traditional rulers, political leaders, and executives.

Former President Obasanjo praised Obaseki’s achievements, particularly noting the governor’s efforts to rebuild the Stella Obasanjo Hospital.

“I want to thank you for remembering my late wife, Stella Obasanjo. I was here before, and coming here now, what I see is wonderful. You are not only a builder but also a reformer who has positively impacted the lives of your people,” Obasanjo said.

Obasanjo disclosed that the hospital, originally named after his late wife, was established 17 years ago to keep her memory alive. He expressed gratitude to Obaseki for prioritizing the hospital’s renovation and expansion, seeing it as a meaningful way to honour both his wife’s legacy and the needs of the community.

Former First Lady Patience Jonathan also commended Obaseki’s accomplishments, highlighting the importance of the newly renovated Stella Obasanjo Hospital.

“The newly rebuilt Stella Obasanjo Hospital is a testament to the power of a visionary leader and a commitment to building a strong, healthy state and nation,” she said.

“This hospital has become a shining example of what can be accomplished for the well-being of our people. We commend you for this great effort, and we can see the realization of your dream to deliver quality and accessible healthcare.

“This is a testament to establishing Edo State as a regional hub for quality and affordable healthcare services, bringing hope to the people of Edo.”

According to Mrs Jonathan, “This hospital will serve as a reference centre, bridging the gap between primary healthcare and specialized healthcare and ensuring that everyone, irrespective of their background, will receive the care they need.

“I thank the governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, and the people of the state for preserving the legacy of our late First Lady through this hospital. The efforts of this hospital will not only improve healthcare but raise the bar for effective service delivery in our nation, Nigeria.”

Governor Obaseki, in his response, outlined the successes of his administration, stating that he had fulfilled the promises made to the people of Edo State. He pointed to accomplishments across education, infrastructure, and the economy, saying his government has set Edo State on a path toward sustainable growth.