Okpebholo Celebrates Edo Workforce, Highlights Reforms And Welfare Gains

Governor Monday Okpebholo has commended workers in Edo State for their contributions to development, while outlining key labour-focused achievements of his administration and reaffirming his commitment to improved welfare.

Speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Benin City on Friday, the governor described the relationship between organised labour and the state government as a productive partnership built on mutual respect and constructive engagement.

Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Okpebholo praised workers across sectors, including teachers, healthcare personnel, civil servants, artisans, traders, and security operatives, for their role in driving the state’s progress.

“I am delighted to join the hardworking men and women of Edo State on this special occasion. Your daily efforts remain the backbone of our development,” he said.

The governor reiterated that workers’ welfare remains a top priority of his administration, citing the consistent payment of salaries and the continuation of the 13th-month salary. He also highlighted the approval of a new minimum wage of ₦75,000, describing it as a step toward ensuring fair compensation.

On outstanding obligations, Okpebholo disclosed that the state government has released a first tranche of ₦1 billion to address salary arrears owed to Ambrose Alli University staff, alongside another ₦1 billion for the payment of gratuities to retired local government workers.

He said the administration is also making strides in infrastructure development, with multiple road and construction projects ongoing across the three senatorial districts to enhance mobility and economic activity.

Providing updates on employment, the governor stated that over 10,000 workers have been recruited under his administration, including 5,000 teachers, 1,300 healthcare workers, and 2,500 local vigilantes. He added that the Local Government Training Institute in Akpako-Edo has been upgraded, with enrolment increasing significantly.

In the area of economic empowerment, Okpebholo announced a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme aimed at supporting traders, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs.

Addressing security, he said cult-related violence in the state has dropped significantly, attributing the improvement to strengthened support for security agencies through the provision of operational equipment.

The governor also linked the state’s progress to the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging continued support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He further assured workers that concerns regarding the contributory pension scheme are being addressed, noting that a committee has been set up to review the issue and recommend solutions.

Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to delivering measurable results and sustaining collaboration with labour unions to build a more prosperous Edo State.