By Samuel Ike Abuja

The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has said that security remains a key driver of economic development, noting that investors and farmers can only thrive in an environment where lives, businesses and farmlands are adequately protected.Idahosa stated that the security initiatives introduced by Governor Monday Okpebholo had restored public confidence and created a safer atmosphere for investment and agricultural activities across the state.He explained that security was fundamental to sustainable growth, stressing that economic transformation could only take place when investors were assured of safety and farmers could access their farmlands without fear.According to him, the administration’s commitment to security is reflected in the SHINE Agenda, where security occupies a prominent position alongside agriculture and other development priorities.He added that the government’s security strategy was closely tied to its drive for food sufficiency, emphasising that farmers require safe communities and secure farmlands to maximise agricultural productivity and contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy.Speaking further, Idahosa commended the Foundation for Partnership Initiatives in the Niger Delta (PIND) for selecting Edo State as a hub for its human capital development programmes. He assured the organisation of the state government’s willingness to strengthen collaboration for the benefit of residents.The deputy governor noted that several corporate social responsibility projects undertaken by multinational companies in rural communities had been successfully implemented through partnerships facilitated by PIND. He described the organisation’s interventions as community driven and tailored to address the specific needs of beneficiaries while strengthening key economic value chains.Earlier, the Executive Director of PIND, Mr Effiong Essien, explained that the organisation is a non profit initiative dedicated to promoting peace and inclusive economic growth across the Niger Delta. He said PIND works with governments, communities, businesses and development partners to address common development challenges.Essien stated that the foundation’s programmes focus on poverty reduction, youth empowerment, community resilience, economic inclusion and sustainable development, all aimed at fostering peace, stability and prosperity throughout the Niger Delta region.