FIC Report (Edo State) – Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated that the welfare of workers remains a major priority of his administration, as he joined workers across the state to celebrate the 2026 Workers’ Day.
Speaking during the May Day celebration, the governor praised the dedication and contributions of Edo workers to the development of the state, describing them as the backbone of progress and growth.
According to him, his administration has continued to place workers first through policies aimed at improving their living conditions and ensuring better service delivery.
“I am delighted to celebrate with the hardworking men and women of Edo State on this special Workers’ Day occasion. From teachers and health workers to civil servants, artisans, traders, and security personnel, your daily sacrifices keep Edo moving forward,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo also commended labour leaders in the state for maintaining a cordial and productive relationship with the government through constructive engagement and cooperation.
Highlighting achievements recorded by his administration, the governor noted that salaries have been paid promptly while the payment of 13th-month salary has been sustained. He added that the state government approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 to improve workers’ welfare.
The governor further disclosed that the government released ₦1 billion as the first tranche for the payment of salary arrears owed staff of Ambrose Alli University. Another ₦1 billion, he said, was approved for the settlement of outstanding gratuities owed retired local government pensioners.
According to him, the administration has also created employment opportunities for over 10,000 people, including 5,000 teachers, 1,300 healthcare workers, and 2,500 local vigilantes.
He stated that efforts are ongoing to strengthen the civil service through the appointment of competent officials into the Civil Service Commission and the Local Government Service Commission, while the Local Government Training Institute in Akpako-Edo is being upgraded to improve manpower development.
To support small businesses and entrepreneurs, the governor said the state government launched a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme targeted at traders, artisans, and small-scale business owners.
Governor Okpebholo noted that Edo State has become a hub of infrastructural development, with road construction and other projects ongoing across the three senatorial districts to improve transportation, ease business activities, and enhance access to markets.
On security, he said the government’s interventions have significantly reduced cult-related violence in the state, adding that security agencies have been equipped with operational vehicles, motorcycles, and other logistics support.
The governor attributed many of the administration’s achievements to the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda, urging citizens to continue supporting the federal government.
He also addressed concerns raised by workers over the contributory pension scheme, revealing that a high-powered committee has been set up to review the matter and make recommendations within a short period.
Governor Okpebholo assured workers that his administration would continue to engage labour unions in mutual respect and partnership, stressing that governance must be measured by impact and not mere promises.
Signed:
Omoluogbe Ruth
FIC Benin city
May 1st ,2026
