Without A Doubt, This Cap Fits Edomaruse (OPINION)
By Isaac Asabor
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent appointment of Collins Edomaruse as Special Adviser on International Development Partners is a masterstroke that combines vision, strategic foresight, and impeccable timing. Like a tailor crafting a bespoke garment, this appointment is perfectly fitted to the unique demands of the role and the extraordinary qualities of the appointee. Without a doubt, this cap fits, and it fits splendidly.
Collins Edomaruse is no stranger to excellence. A journalist of repute, a communicator of global standing, and a strategist with a proven track record, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to excel in high-pressure, high-stakes environments. From his tenure at THISDAY, where he held pivotal editorial roles, to his leadership as Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of METROWATCH, Edomaruse has etched his name in the annals of Nigerian journalism as a man who gets the job done.
But Edomaruse’s achievements are not confined to the newsroom. His academic credentials, including a Master’s in Communication Studies (MCS) from Lagos State University (LASU), coupled with his Fellow status at the Nigerian Guild of Editors (FNGE) and membership in the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), underline a career built on the pillars of professionalism and intellectual rigor.
The role of Special Adviser on International Development Partners is not in any way a ceremonial one. It requires a blend of diplomacy, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex international networks. With Edo State seeking to position itself as a beacon of sustainable development, the stakes have never been higher. This is where Edomaruse’s unique skill set comes into play.
Over the years, Edomaruse has cultivated a vast network of international contacts and partnerships. His tenure as a media aide to Dr. Daniel Olukoya, General Overseer of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, provided him with invaluable experience in managing high-profile relationships on a global scale. His founding role in the Igbanke Unity Forum (IUF) also showcases his ability to bring people together around shared goals, a skill that will be critical in fostering collaboration with international development partners.
Governor Okpebholo’s vision for Edo State, anchored on leveraging international partnerships for sustainable development, is a bold and commendable one. By appointing Edomaruse, the governor has made a statement: that competence, experience, and a track record of delivering results are non-negotiable criteria for this critical role.
Edomaruse’s mandate is expansive. From providing strategic policy advice and initiating policy reviews to representing Edo State in high-level meetings with international partners, his responsibilities will require a delicate balance of tactical precision and visionary leadership. His role also involves monitoring progress on development cooperation, managing risks, and ensuring that Edo’s voice resonates on the global stage.
Given his extensive background in journalism and public relations, Edomaruse is uniquely equipped to amplify Edo State’s narrative, ensuring that its aspirations, achievements, and challenges are understood by the global community. His proven ability to craft compelling stories will be instrumental in raising global awareness about the state’s development goals and attracting the kind of support that drives transformative change.
Leadership is as much about vision as it is about execution. Governor Okpebholo’s confidence in Edomaruse is not misplaced. The governor’s statement, “I believe Collins will fearlessly champion our stories and drive impactful initiatives that benefit our state,” is a testament to the trust reposed in a man whose reputation precedes him.
Edomaruse’s ability to “champion our stories” will involve distilling the essence of Edo State’s development trajectory into narratives that resonate with diverse international audiences. His task is to align the state’s goals with the priorities of development partners, ensuring a mutually beneficial partnership that uplifts the state’s socioeconomic profile.
While Edomaruse’s appointment is a step in the right direction, success in his role will require the active participation of multiple stakeholders. Local government officials, civil society organizations, and private sector players must all align with the state’s vision to maximize the benefits of international partnerships. Collaboration, transparency, and accountability will be the watchwords as Edomaruse embarks on this critical assignment.
Moreover, the citizens of Edo State have a role to play. Development is not a spectator sport; it demands active engagement from all quarters. From providing feedback on the impact of initiatives to holding leaders accountable, the people of Edo State must embrace this moment as a collective opportunity to build a better future.
As Collins Edomaruse assumes his new role, the expectations are high, but so too is the potential for impact. This is a moment that calls for boldness, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. It is a moment that demands a leader who can bridge the gap between local aspirations and global opportunities.
For a man who has consistently demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion, Edomaruse is more than up to the task. His appointment is a win not just for him but for Edo State and, indeed, for Nigeria. It is a reminder that when the right people are given the right roles, transformative change is not just possible; it is inevitable.
In Collins Edomaruse, Edo State has found a champion, a strategist, and a visionary leader. His appointment as Special Adviser on International Development Partners is a clarion call for all stakeholders to rally around the state’s development goals. As he steps into this new chapter, armed with a wealth of experience and a proven track record, one thing is clear: without a doubt, this cap fits. And with it, Edo State is poised to stride confidently into a future of sustainable growth and global relevance.
