…Pledges sustained welfare commitment
By Simeon OSAJIE
The Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday expressed deep appreciation to labour leaders across the state for their steadfast support and constructive engagement with his administration, describing the relationship between organised labour and the state Government as a model of productive partnership rooted in mutual respect.
This was disclosed by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor in a statement made available to journalists.
According to Dr. Ebojele, the Governor speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held in Benin City, paid tribute to the working men and women whose daily contributions continue to drive the development of Edo State.
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Governor Okpebholo said, “I am very delighted to join the hardworking men and women of Edo State on this special occasion of Workers’ Day 2026,” he said. “Today, we celebrate the men and women whose daily efforts keep our state moving forward. From teachers to health workers, civil servants, artisans, traders, and security personnel, you are the backbone of Edo’s progress. I thank you all
The Governor affirmed that workers’ welfare has remained central to his administration’s policy priorities from its inception, pointing to a consistent record of salary payments, wage reforms, and welfare interventions as evidence of that commitment.
“From the first day of this administration, workers’ welfare has remained a top priority. We have ensured prompt payment of salaries and sustained payment of the 13th month salary,” he stated.
He further disclosed that his administration approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 monthly — a decision he described as a recognition of labour’s right to dignified compensation.
On pension and salary arrears, Governor Okpebholo announced that his administration has released the first tranche of ₦1 billion for the payment of outstanding salary arrears owed to Ambrose Alli University, and an additional first tranche of ₦1 billion directed at clearing outstanding gratuities owed to retired Local Government pensioners.
“Those who served Edo faithfully must not be forgotten,” he declared.
Highlighting the administration’s infrastructure drive, the Governor described Edo State as an active construction site, with major road and infrastructure projects under simultaneous execution across all three senatorial districts — designed to ease movement, support commerce, and improve access to markets and communities.
Governor Okpebholo also presented a robust jobs creation record, disclosing that his administration has employed over 10,000 workers, comprising 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 rising dramatically from approximately 30 to over 400 workers currently receiving professional training.
On economic empowerment, the Governor announced the launch of a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme targeting traders, artisans, and entrepreneurs — a grassroots-focused intervention designed to stimulate productivity and expand economic opportunities at the community level.
Addressing the security situation in the state, Governor Okpebholo reported a landmark achievement in the fight against cult-related violence.
“Security remains the foundation of productivity. Through decisive action, cult-related killings have reduced from over 300 yearly to almost zero,” he said, adding that his administration has also equipped security agencies with vehicles, motorcycles, and operational materials to sustain the gains recorded.
The Governor credited the broader economic environment enabled by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a critical enabler of Edo State’s progress, urging all Nigerians and Edo workers in particular to continue supporting the Federal Government’s reform agenda.
“These achievements were made possible by the economic reforms of our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Let us continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” he said.
Responding to concerns raised by workers on the contributory pension scheme, Governor Okpebholo assured that he has constituted a high-powered committee to thoroughly review the matter and render advisory recommendations within the shortest possible time.
He closed his address with a reaffirmation of his administration’s governing philosophy — one anchored on measurable impact rather than unfulfilled promises.
“My dear workers, this administration believes governance must be measured by impact, not promises. We will continue to work with labour in mutual respect and good faith as we build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Edo State,” the Governor concluded.
Earlier, Edo State chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Benard Joman Eguakhide, expressed concern at the present situation of things in the state.
According to him, inflation has remained very high, food prices increased by over 50 percent. Also transportation costs have gone beyond what the workers can afford.
“Workers are getting poorer despite working harder, as wages are no longer sufficient to guarantee a decent standard of living, as over 70 percent of workers spend most of their income on basic survival,” he stated.