The Edo State Government has made history with the appointment of its first visually impaired Permanent Secretary, marking a major step toward inclusivity and equal opportunity in the state’s public service. The landmark appointment was announced on Friday during the swearing-in of new government officials by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The newly appointed Permanent Secretary, Melody Omosah, was among 20 Permanent Secretaries sworn in alongside two commissioners and members of the Governing Council of the Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology.
Governor Okpebholo described Omosah’s appointment as a significant milestone, saying it demonstrates his administration’s belief that competence, character, and ability—not disability—should determine access to leadership positions. He noted that the appointment reflects the government’s commitment to creating an inclusive public service where every qualified individual has an equal opportunity to contribute.
The governor also announced the appointment of Martin Oli, a member of the Igbo community, as commissioner, stating that the decision further underscores his administration’s commitment to diversity and inclusiveness.
According to Okpebholo, the appointments reinforce his government’s resolve to prioritize merit, excellence, and fairness over ethnicity, background, or personal connections. He stressed that the “New Edo” agenda is focused on ensuring that every capable citizen has a place in governance.
The appointments have been widely viewed as a positive step toward promoting diversity, accessibility, and equal representation in public service, setting a new benchmark for inclusive governance in Edo State.
