Governor Okpebholo Regularises Over 5,000 Contract Teachers in Edo State

In a landmark move hailed as a major step forward for Nigeria’s education sector, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially absorbed more than 5,000 contract teachers into the State’s Ministry of Education as permanent staff.

The teachers, who had served on contract with a monthly stipend of ₦65,000 during the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, were formally presented with appointment letters at a ceremony held on Wednesday at the Government House, Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo, who personally supervised the distribution of the letters, described the event as “historic,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to recognising and rewarding the dedication of educators across the state.

“Teachers, I am happy to see you,” the Governor said. “I wanted it this way because I had asked several times if you had received your letters, and the answer was no. So, I decided to supervise the process myself. As you collect your appointment letters today, you will also receive transport fare because I know many of you have traveled long distances.”

The Governor emphasised that the welfare of teachers remains a cornerstone of his administration’s agenda, noting that the development of the state’s education system depends on the motivation and well-being of its workforce.

“You are very important to us,” he added. “Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, commended the teachers for their resilience and unwavering dedication over the past three years despite working under contract conditions.

“You have been suffering for years, yet you have stayed committed to educating our children, waking up at night to prepare lesson notes,” Dr. Iyamu said. “Beautiful schools without teachers are useless. Today, an angel has come—a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night.”

Dr. Iyamu also highlighted Governor Okpebholo’s achievements within the education sector, including the construction of over 68 new schools in just one year, aimed at ensuring access to quality education for children across Edo State.

“When he assumed office, Ambrose Alli University had a ₦41 million subvention; he increased it to ₦500 million. Today, a 1,500-capacity lecture theatre and a 600-capacity hostel are under construction,” he revealed.

He further noted that the administration recently launched the EDU-Rescue Programme, designed to provide children from disadvantaged backgrounds with access to quality education and learning resources.

This historic regularisation exercise, according to observers, marks a new chapter for Edo State’s education workforce, underscoring Governor Okpebholo’s resolve to prioritise education and the welfare of teachers — the true architects of the state’s future.

The ceremony was attended by several top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq.; the Head of Service, Anthony Okugbonwa, Esq.; and other Special Advisers and dignitaries.