Okpebholo raises Edo minimum wage to N75,000, reaffirms commitment to workers’ welfare

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced a new minimum wage of N75,000 for state workers, an increase from the previous N70,000, as part of his administration’s continued efforts to improve the standard of living and welfare of civil servants.

The governor made the announcement during his May Day address at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where he commended workers for their dedication and contribution to the growth of the state.

“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. We believe this makes a real difference,” Governor Okpebholo said to resounding applause.

Highlighting achievements made since assuming office, the governor noted that over 1,000 casual workers, including cleaners, had been converted into permanent civil service employees as part of reforms to ensure job security and fairness.

He further revealed that his government had recruited 500 teachers and is currently reviewing over 3,000 casual teachers for possible absorption into the state workforce.

READ ALSO: Cultism In Edo: Violence Claims Eight Lives As Governor Okpebholo Takes Action.

In the health sector, the state has approved the employment of 450 clinical and non-clinical hospital staff and has regularised 126 contract workers at the Edo State Specialist Hospital to strengthen healthcare delivery.

In the area of justice, Okpebholo said all judges whose appointments were previously delayed have now been properly sworn in and are actively discharging their duties.

The governor also disclosed that his administration has cleared salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff and approved health insurance for retirees, underscoring his commitment to ensuring that support for workers continues even after retirement.

“Our administration is committed to prompt salary and pension payments, structured recruitment, workers’ welfare, and professional development,” he stated.

He joined other leaders in celebrating Nigerian workers: “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.”

Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Edo Chapter, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, praised the governor for his proactive and people-centered policies. He noted that the theme of this year’s celebration — “Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship” — aptly captures the challenges Nigerian workers face.

Egwekhide highlighted the governor’s achievements within six months in office, stating they exceeded the union’s expectations.

He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting infrastructure development in Edo, including the ongoing construction of the state’s first flyover and the approval of a second, as well as improved attention to federal roads across the state.