Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, on the 10th anniversary of his coronation, commending the monarch’s contributions to peace, unity and the preservation of Benin’s cultural heritage.

In a congratulatory message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Ebojele Akhere Patrick, Okpebholo described the anniversary as an occasion to celebrate a decade of the monarch’s reign and acknowledge the traditional institution’s role in the state.

Oba Ewuare II was crowned the 40th Oba of Benin on October 20, 2016. His 10th coronation anniversary falls on October 20, 2026.

The governor, speaking on behalf of the Edo State Government and its people, described the monarch’s reign as one marked by peace, dignity, reconciliation and purposeful leadership.

He said the Oba had continued to preserve and promote the history, traditions and cultural identity of the Benin Kingdom while projecting its heritage to a global audience.

“As the revered custodian of the ancient heritage of the Benin Kingdom, Your Royal Majesty has continued to preserve, promote and project our rich culture, traditions, history and identity on a global stage,” the governor said in the statement.

Okpebholo added that the monarch’s efforts to uphold the dignity of the Benin people had reinforced the kingdom’s place among the world’s historic civilisations.

The governor also expressed appreciation for what he described as the Oba’s goodwill, counsel and support for his administration, saying the palace continued to play an important role in promoting peace, stability and development across Edo State.

“We deeply appreciate Your Royal Majesty’s goodwill, wise counsel and support for the Edo State Government,” he said.

Okpebholo prayed for the monarch’s continued good health, wisdom and strength, as well as many more years on the throne.

He concluded his message with the traditional greeting, “Oba Ghato Kpere, Ise!”

Oba Ewuare II’s coronation anniversary is being marked with a programme of cultural, educational and social activities in Benin City. According to the Benin Royal Palace’s official anniversary programme, events began on October 4 and are scheduled to continue until November 21, 2026.

The activities include cultural festivals, exhibitions, sporting events, lectures and ceremonies celebrating the history and traditions of the Benin Kingdom.

The monarch’s reign has also included advocacy for the return of Benin artefacts taken during the 1897 British expedition, as well as efforts to preserve the kingdom’s cultural heritage. The National Open University of Nigeria identifies Ewuare II as a former Nigerian diplomat who served as ambassador to several countries before ascending the throne.

Okpebholo’s congratulatory message follows his similar tribute to the monarch in October 2025, when the governor marked the Oba’s ninth coronation anniversary and praised his role in promoting peace and cultural preservation.

The governor’s latest message reiterates the state government’s recognition of the traditional institution’s cultural and social role as the Benin Kingdom celebrates a decade under Oba Ewuare II.