Local Government in Edo State: Full List of 18 LGAs & Headquarters (2026)
Edo State, the "Heartbeat of the Nation," is structured into 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) spread across three senatorial districts: Edo South, Edo Central, and Edo North.
In 2026, under the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo, these local councils have become central to the SHINE Agenda (Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources/Agriculture, and Education). This guide provides the official list of all 18 LGAs, their headquarters, and their role in the state's modern development.
Full List of the 18 Local Government Areas in Edo State
The 18 LGAs of Edo State are the third tier of government, receiving direct allocations to drive rural and urban development.
| S/N | Local Government Area | Headquarters | Senatorial District |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Akoko-Edo | Igarra | Edo North |
| 2 | Egor | Uselu | Edo South |
| 3 | Esan Central | Irrua | Edo Central |
| 4 | Esan North-East | Uromi | Edo Central |
| 5 | Esan South-East | Ubiaja | Edo Central |
| 6 | Esan West | Ekpoma | Edo Central |
| 7 | Etsako Central | Fugar | Edo North |
| 8 | Etsako East | Agenebode | Edo North |
| 9 | Etsako West | Auchi | Edo North |
| 10 | Igueben | Igueben | Edo Central |
| 11 | Ikpoba Okha | Idogbo | Edo South |
| 12 | Oredo | Benin City | Edo South |
| 13 | Orhionmwon | Abudu | Edo South |
| 14 | Ovia North-East | Okada | Edo South |
| 15 | Ovia South-West | Iguobazuwa | Edo South |
| 16 | Owan East | Afuze | Edo North |
| 17 | Owan West | Sabongida-Ora | Edo North |
| 18 | Uhunmwonde | Ehor | Edo South |
Information updated for the 2026 administrative cycle. Source: Edo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Administrative Structure & 2026 Reforms
As of February 2026, the Edo State government has shifted from "PowerPoint governance" to "Practical Governance."
The SHINE Agenda at the Local Level
Governor Okpebholo's administration is currently utilizing the 18 LGAs to execute the SHINE Agenda. Key developments in 2026 include:
Infrastructure: Massive road construction projects in Esan Central and Oredo to decongest Benin City.
Health: The rollout of the 150-bed specialist hospital initiatives across key council headquarters.
Education: Extensive school renovations and teacher recruitment overseen by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (headed by Sir Lucky Eseigbe).
Note on Chieftaincy: Chieftaincy affairs in Edo are highly revered, particularly the role of the Oba of Benin in Edo South and various traditional rulers across the Central and North districts. In 2026, the government maintains a strict "no-interference" policy regarding traditional titles.
Edo State Local Government FAQ
Who is the Governor of Edo State in 2026? The Executive Governor of Edo State is Senator Monday Okpebholo, who assumed office on November 12, 2024.
Which LGA is the capital of Edo State? The capital, Benin City, is primarily situated within the Oredo Local Government Area, though the metropolitan area extends into Egor and Ikpoba Okha.
How many LGAs are in Edo North? Edo North Senatorial District consists of 6 LGAs: Akoko-Edo, Etsako Central, Etsako East, Etsako West, Owan East, and Owan West.
Quick Fact: The Heartbeat of Nigeria
Edo State is divided into 18 LGAs. In 2026, Oredo remains the economic hub, while Esan Central serves as a major gateway for the state's ongoing urban renewal projects.
