Okpebholo Jacks Up Minimum Wage in Edo to N75,000 in Workers Day Windfall
In a move aimed at improving the standard of living of workers in the state, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced an increase in the minimum wage from N70,000 to N75,000 per month.
The governor made the announcement during his May Day speech at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
The new minimum wage is part of the governor’s efforts to prioritize workers’ welfare and show appreciation for their contributions to the state’s development. Governor Okpebholo stated that his administration is committed to continuously looking for ways to improve the welfare of Edo workers.
Since assuming office, the governor has implemented several initiatives to boost workers’ welfare, including the conversion of over 1,000 casual workers into permanent civil service employees.
He has also hired 500 teachers and is reviewing the employment status of over 3,000 casual teachers for full employment.
Additionally, the governor has approved the recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical hospital staff and regularized the employment of 126 contract workers at the Edo State Specialist Hospital. He has also cleared outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff and ensured the proper swearing-in of judges whose appointments were delayed.
The governor has also introduced health insurance for retirees, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to supporting workers even after they leave active service.
He reiterated his dedication to prompt salary and pension payments, structured recruitment, workers’ welfare, and professional development.
The Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, praised Governor Okpebholo for his laudable policies, which have eased the hardship experienced by workers and pensioners across the state. Egwekhide noted that the governor’s interventions have significantly improved the lives and civil rights of Edo workers, surpassing their expectations.
The NLC chairman also thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting Edo State, citing the construction of the first flyover and the approval of a second, as well as the attention being given to federal roads across the state.
The increase in minimum wage is expected to have a positive impact on the standard of living of workers in Edo State, and the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare is seen as a significant step towards improving the overall well-being of citizens in the state.
