Edo State Minimum Wage Raised to N75,000: A New Era for Workers’ Welfare Under Governor Okpebhol
Minimum Wage Increase Sparks Joy Among Workers
As a result of this,edo is currently buzzing with excitement as civil servants celebrate a significant improvement in their welfare.
Furthermore,Governor Monday Okpebholo has officially approved a new Edo State minimum wage of N75,000.
This announcement, made during the 2025 May Day celebration at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City,
marks a historic moment in the state’s labor history.
Thousands of jubilant workers, union leaders, and civil society groups cheered as the governor delivered the news.
According to him, this upward wage review is aimed at cushioning the economic hardship faced by workers across Nigeria.
“Our administration has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 per month for all Edo workers,”
the governor declared, drawing loud applause from the crowd.
This bold decision positions Edo as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s labor policy
and reflects the governor’s unwavering dedication to inclusive and responsive governance.
Employment Reforms: From Casual Workers to Permanent Staff
Beyond the wage increase, the Edo State minimum wage announcement is part of a broader worker-centered reform agenda.
Although,since taking office, Governor Okpebholo has converted over 1,000 casual workers
many of them cleaners and administrative assistants into permanent civil servants.
This move has restored job security and dignity to countless families.
Additionally, the state government has recruited more than 500 new teachers,
while also reviewing the status of over 3,000 casual teaching staff for potential permanent placement.
“A strong education system starts with empowered educators,” Governor Okpebholo said.
“We are committed to treating every teacher fairly and rewarding them adequately.”
These efforts underline the administration’s drive to uplift the education sector by investing in human resources.
Edo’s Health Sector Gets a Boost Through Staff Recruitment
The health sector has not been left out of the reforms linked to the Edo State minimum wage framework.
Indeed the state government has approved the recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical health workers to strengthen hospitals and clinics statewide.
In addition, 126 contract staff at the Edo State Specialist Hospital have now been absorbed into permanent roles.
This move is expected to improve healthcare delivery and reduce staff turnover, ensuring better patient outcomes.
“When healthcare workers feel valued and secure, it results in better services for our people,” the governor emphasized.
Addressing Salary Arrears and Strengthening the Judiciary
Governor Okpebholo’s administration is also tackling historical wage issues.
Recently, long-standing salary arrears owed to staff at Edo Polytechnic were cleared restoring confidence among public institution workers.
Furthermore, the judiciary has received a major boost.
Judges whose appointments had been stalled were sworn in promptly, allowing the legal system to function without administrative delays.
“No arm of government should be left behind,” the governor asserted. “The judiciary remains a pillar of our democracy.”
These actions tie back into the larger goal of comprehensive institutional reform
under the banner of the Edo State minimum wage and broader welfare agenda.
Health Insurance for Retirees: Dignity After Service
One of the most impactful reforms rolled out by the state is the introduction of a health insurance scheme for retirees.
Governor Okpebholo stressed that supporting workers should not end at retirement.
“Retirement should be a time of peace, not fear,” he noted. “Our retirees deserve continued access to healthcare.”
This initiative will provide thousands of retirees with affordable healthcare,
reducing their financial burden and ensuring they live with dignity after years of service.
Workers’ Union Commends Okpebholo’s Leadership
During the May Day celebration, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State,
praised the governor for surpassing expectations in under a year in office.
“You’ve delivered far beyond our expectations within six months,” he said. “Your sensitivity to our economic reality is highly commendable.”
Egwekhide also emphasized how the Edo State minimum wage increase reflects the administration’s genuine concern for the people.
Federal Government Collaboration Accelerates Infrastructure
The NLC chairman didn’t forget to recognize federal collaboration.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting Edo’s infrastructure drive,
noting that the state’s first flyover is under construction, with a second already approved.
“Federal roads that were long ignored are now getting attention,” Egwekhide added.
This partnership between state and federal governments is seen as a vital step in improving public infrastructure,
enhancing both mobility and economic productivity.
Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship
The theme of this year’s Workers’ Day “Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship” couldn’t have come at a better time.
It emphasized the need for workers to have a voice in governance, especially during tough economic times.
Governor Okpebholo echoed this sentiment in his speech:
“It’s not just about raising wages. We must create an environment where workers feel heard, respected, and empowered.”
This perspective aligns with his broader agenda tied to the Edo State minimum wage policy, which goes beyond numbers to include dignity, respect, and reform.
A Hopeful Future for Edo’s Workforce
Governor Okpebholo ended his speech with a promise to continue improving workforce conditions.
He assured workers of more structured recruitment processes, prompt salary payments, pension disbursements, and training initiatives.
“As we celebrate today, I join President Tinubu and fellow governors in honoring the hard work of Nigerian workers,” he said.
As the sun set on the energetic May Day celebration, one thing stood out clearly Edo State minimum wage reform is more than just a figure.
It’s a signal that workers’ welfare is now at the heart of government policy.
What are your thoughts on Edo State’s new N75,000 minimum wage?
Should other states take a cue from this?
Let us know in the comments and follow NIGPOST for more updates on labor and governance across Nigeria.
Author: Adekunle Salawu
Date: May 1, 2025
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