Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has said that the new Irrua Branch of Premium Trust Bank, a microfinance institution, will foster economic growth and create job opportunities for Esan youths.
Okpebholo said this at the inauguration of the bank in Irrua, Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo, on Friday.
He said, “It is a great pleasure to join the management of Premium Trust Bank and good people of Esan Central on this historic event.
“For many years, in spite of its strategic location and growing commercial activities, Irrua had no new generation bank.
“Today, that gap has been closed, and a new chapter of economic growth and opportunity has opened.
“The decision by Premium Trust Bank to establish a new branch here is a strong vote of confidence in the economic potential of Irrua and the business-friendly environment being created by our administration.
“It affirms that Edo is safe, stable, and open for investment,” the governor said.
He revealed that the bank would support businesses, expand access to financial services, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the area.
Okpebholo commended the management of the bank for the laudable investment and assured it of the government’s continued commitment to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He encouraged the residents of Irrua to support the bank and continue to build a vibrant local economy.
“To me, I got to know from my dream that one day we will have a new generation of banks in my local government; you have made that possible.
“The first assignment I carried out was the inauguration of Premium Trust Bank, Benin.
“Thank you very much; my people will patronize you.
“We will open up this place to bring customers to this bank,” Okpebholo said.
Thereafter, the governor, accompanied by the managing director of the bank, Mr Emmanuel Emefienim, inaugurated a solar-powered water project executed by the bank for the Irrua Model Market.
Earlier, Emefienim said that the bank would create meaningful employment opportunities for the people of Esanland.
According to him, Esan sons and daughters are already occupying key management positions in the bank.
He explained that the water project was executed to promote health, productivity, and environmental sustainability in the area.
