Benin City wins $1m Bloomberg global innovation prize

Benin City, the capital of Edo State, has secured a $1 million global innovation award in the Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge after emerging among the top cities selected from more than 600 entries worldwide.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Patrick Akhere, said only 25 cities across 20 countries made the final list, with Benin City ranking among four African cities recognised in the competition.

According to the state government, the award highlights Benin City’s ability to develop innovative and practical solutions to pressing public challenges, particularly in the area of healthcare delivery.

Governor Monday Okpebholo described the recognition as a reflection of his administration’s commitment to innovation and efforts aimed at strengthening 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.

Okpebholo congratulated the Edo State Ministry of Health and the team behind the initiative, noting that the award underscores the state’s growing reputation as a hub 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,” he added.

The Bloomberg Mayor’s Challenge is considered one of the world’s most competitive platforms for cities to showcase innovative solutions to urban problems, with selected cities receiving funding and technical support to implement transformative ideas.