Rt Hon. Marie Oligbi-Edeko has been named the recipient of the 2025 New Correspondent Digital Newspaper Award for Legislator with Community Impact, a recognition that reflects her commitment to people-centered leadership and tangible community development.
Organizers of the annual event said Edeko who is representing Esan North-East II Constituency in the Edo State House of Assembly, has distinguished herself as one of Edo State’s most purposeful and development-driven lawmakers.
In a citation it was stated that Since her election in 2023, Hon. Oligbi-Edeko has consistently demonstrated integrity, fairness, and a focus on improving everyday life in her constituency. Her tenure as Deputy Speaker of the 8th Assembly showcased her level-headedness and responsibility.
In May 2025, she voluntarily stepped down from the Deputy Speakership after her party became the minority, insisting on equity and fair representation. The move, uncommon in Nigerian politics, earned praise across party lines and reinforced her image as a principled leader who prioritizes justice over personal advantage.
The citation added that her impact on the ground is tangible. In the area of security, she championed the construction of a modern police station at the National Institute of Construction Technology & Management (NICTM) in Amedokhian, Uromi, providing residents, students, and businesses with enhanced safety and peace of mind.
She has also been vocal in addressing insecurity, particularly the wave of kidnappings affecting Uromi and Uzea, combining legislative advocacy with practical interventions.
Education remains a central focus of her developmental agenda. Hon. Oligbi-Edeko facilitated the completion of perimeter fencing at Ebhoiyi Demonstration School and Idumengenlan Primary School, ensuring safer learning environments for children.
She also commenced fencing at her alma mater, Our Lady of Lourdes Girls Grammar School, emphasizing her commitment to girl-child education and the nurturing of future female leaders.
In healthcare and social welfare, her contributions are equally notable. She facilitated the establishment of a cottage clinic in Uzea, supported ongoing work at the Ebhoiyi Health Centre, and organized medical outreach programs reaching vulnerable residents.
Additionally, she extended health-insurance support to elderly citizens, easing the burden of medical costs for retirees and seniors in her constituency.
Hon. Oligbi-Edeko’s approach blends empathy with action, reflecting what people-first leadership looks like in practice. She has bridged the gap between political representation and meaningful community impact, ensuring that her constituents experience real change rather than empty promises.
For her measurable contributions in security, education, healthcare, welfare, and overall community development, the New Correspondent Digital Newspaper celebrates Hon. Marie Oligbi-Edeko with the 2025 Legislator with Community Impact Award. Her work sets a benchmark for lawmakers across Nigeria, demonstrating that principled, visionary, and development-focused leadership can transform communities and inspire trust in governance.
She will be conferred with award on Monday December 15th 2025 in Benin City.
