Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has increased the state’s minimum wage from N70,000 to N75,000 in a move aimed at improving the living standards of workers.
The announcement was made during the 2024 Workers’ Day celebration held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Thursday. Governor Okpebholo praised the contributions of Edo workers and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to their welfare.
“Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 per month for Edo workers,” the governor said. “It’s our way of saying thank you. We believe this will make a real difference.”
Okpebholo highlighted key actions taken to improve worker conditions, including the regularization of over 1,000 casual cleaners into the civil service, the recruitment of 500 teachers, and efforts to absorb over 3,000 more. He also noted the hiring of 450 healthcare workers and the regularization of contract staff at the Edo State Specialist Hospital.
In the judiciary, delayed judicial appointments have been resolved, and health insurance coverage has been extended to retirees, this is part of a broader push to support workers even after retirement.
The governor pledged to continue timely salary and pension payments, steady recruitment, and policies that uphold the dignity and rights of workers in Edo State.
Speaking at the event, Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State chapter, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, commended the governor for prioritising workers’ welfare, especially amid economic challenges. He lauded the administration’s achievements in just six months, describing them as “beyond expectations.”
Dignitaries present included Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, House Speaker Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, SSG Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Gani Audu, Head of Service Anthony Okungbowa, and labour leaders, among others.
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