BENIN CITY: Benin City, the Edo State capital, has secured major international recognition after emerging among the top cities globally in the prestigious Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge, winning a $1 million innovation award.
The global competition attracted participation from more than 600 cities around the world, with only 25 cities across 20 countries making the final list.
Benin City distinguished itself as one of only four cities in Africa to reach the final stage and secure the coveted prize.
The achievement places the Edo State capital firmly on the global map of innovation and urban leadership, highlighting the city’s ability to develop bold and practical solutions to pressing public challenges, particularly in healthcare delivery.
Reacting to the development, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, described the award as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to innovation and its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across Edo State.
According to the governor, the recognition demonstrates that transformative ideas emerging from Benin City can compete successfully on the global stage.
“This recognition is a testament to innovation, resilience, and the unwavering commitment of our team to transform healthcare delivery in Edo State. It reinforces that bold ideas from Benin City can compete and win on the global stage,” Okpebholo said.
The governor congratulated officials of the Edo State Ministry of Health and members of the team that worked on the initiative, noting that the award underscores the growing reputation of Edo State as a hub for forward-thinking governance and impactful public sector reforms.
Okpebholo also commended the people of Edo State for their continued support and confidence in the administration’s programmes and policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
“Congratulations to my hardworking team and to the great people of Edo State. The world is watching, and we are just getting started,” he added.
The Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge is widely regarded as one of the most competitive global platforms for cities to present innovative solutions to urban problems, with selected cities receiving financial support and technical assistance to implement transformative ideas capable of improving public service delivery.
