Benin City, the capital of Edo State, has secured a $1 million global innovation award in the Bloomberg Mayors Challenge, emerging as one of the top cities selected from more than 600 entries submitted worldwide.
The announcement was made on March 8, 2026, in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Patrick Akhere.
According to the statement, only 25 cities across 20 countries made the final list, with Benin City ranking among four African cities recognised in the highly competitive global contest.
The Edo State Government said the award underscores the city’s ability to develop innovative and practical solutions to major public challenges, particularly in the area of healthcare delivery.
Governor Monday Okpebholo described the recognition as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to innovation and its ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare systems across Edo State.
“This recognition is a testament to innovation, resilience and the unwavering commitment of our team to transform healthcare delivery in Edo State. It reinforces that bold ideas from Benin City can compete and win on the global stage,” the governor said.
He congratulated the Edo State Ministry of Health and the team behind the initiative, noting that the award further demonstrates the state’s growing reputation as a centre for forward-thinking governance and impactful public sector reforms.
“Congratulations to my hardworking team and to the great people of Edo State. The world is watching, and we are just getting started,” Okpebholo added.
The Bloomberg Mayors Challenge is regarded as one of the most competitive global platforms for cities to present innovative solutions to urban challenges. Selected cities receive funding and technical support to implement projects aimed at improving public services and addressing urban problems.
