In a groundbreaking development, the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS) has embarked on a remarkable journey towards revitalizing its operations, with a particular focus on the long-awaited revival of its Ihievbe station in Edo North.
For more than ten years, this station had been left to decay, leaving the community it serves devoid of its presence. The challenges faced by EBS in fulfilling its essential role of informing, educating, and entertaining the residents of Edo State were further exacerbated by the leasing out of the relay station in Uromi, Edo Central, by the previous administration. This move severely limited EBS’s ability to make use of the facility effectively. However, the current administration led by Governor Monday Okpebholo is determined to change the narrative and breathe new life into the service.
On a significant day, December 22, 2024, Sulaiman Aledeh, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of EBS, undertook a pivotal visit to the abandoned Ihievbe station at the behest of Governor Okpebholo. During this visit, Aledeh engaged with the local community, sharing the governor’s ambitious vision to revitalize and reactivate the long-dormant station. This marked a turning point as Aledeh laid out plans to restore the station to full operational capacity.
Today, a historic achievement has been unlocked for the Okpebholo administration, as the Ihievbe station successfully conducted its test run, indicating that the necessary refurbishments are nearing completion. The community’s excitement is palpable after a decade of silence. Aledeh expressed confidence that although some final touches are pending, the remaining work to fully operationalize the station will be concluded in the coming days.
The swift revival of the Ihievbe station, just under 100 days into Governor Okpebholo’s tenure, underscores a rapid turnaround and a dedication to progress. Once fully activated, the station will cater to a diverse audience by broadcasting in local Edo languages, major Nigerian languages, and Pidgin English, ensuring broad accessibility and inclusivity.
Aledeh has issued a call to action to key stakeholders, particularly local government administrators, urging them to actively support the resurgence of EBS Ihievbe. He emphasized the critical need to ensure the security of staff and equipment, as well as to stabilize power supply to facilitate seamless operations.
As EBS strides forward with these promising initiatives, the revitalization of the Ihievbe station stands as a triumph not only for the broadcasting service but also as a testament to the Edo State government’s commitment to enhancing communication, fostering community engagement, and promoting local culture. The horizon appears bright for EBS and the communities it serves.
