Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 for all state workers, marking a significant boost to their welfare.
The announcement was made during the governor’s May Day speech at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
The governor, while appreciating Edo workers’ contributions to the state’s development, said his administration would always look for ways to improve the welfare of Edo workers.
“Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 per month for all Edo workers.
“It’s our way of saying thank you, Edo workers. We believe this makes a real difference, and we count on your dedication to a better Edo
“Since taking office, my administration has prioritised workers’ welfare.
“One early action was converting over 1,000 casual workers, including cleaners, into permanent civil service employees,” he said.
Okpebholo disclosed that his administration had also hired 500 teachers, adding that he was reviewing over 3,000 casual teachers for full employment.
“We also approved recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical hospital staff and regularised 126 contract workers at Edo State Specialist Hospital for stability and growth,” he added.
The governor also disclosed that his administration had cleared outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff.
“In the judiciary, judges whose appointments were delayed have been properly sworn in and are now actively performing their constitutional duties without further administrative hindrances.
“To prove our commitment, we approved health insurance for retirees because we believe support must continue after workers leave active service,” the governor said.
Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s dedication to prompt salary and pension payments, structured recruitment, workers’ welfare and professional development
“As we celebrate today, I join President Tinubu and fellow governors in wishing Nigerian workers a peaceful, fulfilling celebration. Your efforts build our nation daily.”
Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, praised Governor Okpebholo for his commitment to workers’ welfare, saying, “Within six months in office, you have performed excellently for Edo workers. Your achievements surpass our expectations and show real commitment to the needs of workers.”
Egwekhide also thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting Edo State, citing the construction of a flyover bridge and attention to federal roads as evidence of the partnership.
