Benin: Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo has raised the minimum wage for Edo workers from N70,000 to N75,000 to further improve their standard of living. The governor announced this during his 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.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the governor stated, "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, Okpebholo's administration has prioritized workers' welfare, including converting over 1,000 casual workers into permanent civil service employees.
Okpebholo disclosed that his administration had hired 500 teachers and 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 administration also cleared outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff.
In the judiciary, judges whose appointments were delayed have been properly sworn in, and the governor approved health insurance for retirees, emphasizing continued support after workers leave active service. Okpebholo reiterated his administration's dedication to prompt salary and pension payments, structured recruitment, workers' welfare, and professional development.
Acting NLC Chairman, Edo Chapter, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, praised Governor Okpebholo for policies that ease the hardship experienced by workers and pensioners across the state. He noted that recent interventions had significantly improved the lives and civil rights of Edo workers. "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," he said.
Egwekhide also thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting Edo State, highlighting the construction of the first flyover and the approval of a second, as well as the attention given to federal roads across the state through partnership with the Federal Government.