By Ogochukwu Isioma, in Benin City
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo has appointed the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of METROWATCH online newspaper, Mr. Collins Edomaruse as his Special Adviser, International Development Partners.
The appointment was contained in a letter issued to the veteran journalist and signed by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., Secretary to the State Government, on behalf of the governor.
This strategic move underscores the governor’s commitment to strengthening the state’s collaborations with international organizations and fostering sustainable development initiatives.
Edomaruse, a distinguished journalist and seasoned media executive, brings a wealth of experience to the role.
The new Special Adviser hails from Igbanke, in Orhionmwon local government area of Edo state. He obtained a Master’s in Communication Studies from the Lagos State University (LASU) in 2013.
He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (FNGE) and a founding member of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers of Nigeria (GOCOP). He is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Edomaruse has held several senior editorial positions at THISDAY, including Group News Editor, Group Politics Editor, Deputy Editor for the Daily, Saturday, and Sunday editions, as well as Editor of the Nation’s Capital/Abuja Bureau.
He also served as media aide to the General Overseer, Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries, Dr. Daniel Olukoya; and co-founded Igbanke Unity Forum (IUF), his hometown’s apex sociocultural organization.
Known affectionately as ‘General’ for his unparalleled expertise in defense reporting, Edomaruse has consistently set high standards in journalism. His tenure at THISDAY is marked by outstanding achievements; he garnered recognition as one of the top editors in the industry.
Governor Okpebholo expressed confidence in Edomaruse’s ability to navigate complex international partnerships, stating, “I believe Collins will fearlessly champion our stories and drive impactful initiatives that benefit our state.”
As he embarks on this new chapter, Edomaruse is poised to leverage his extensive network and experience to enhance Edo State’s development goals and amplify its voice on the global stage.
As Special Adviser to the Governor on International Development Partners, Edomaruse will be providing strategic policy advice, initiating policy reviews, and providing technical advice on risk management; monitoring progress on development partner cooperation and representing the governor in high-level meetings.
He will also be liaising with international partners and multi-lateral institutions; developing and maintaining good working relations with relevant international organizations; coordinating the delivery of international organizations’ support to Edo, and raising global awareness about persistent and emerging issues.
