BY RICHARD EWEKA
In a gesture underscoring his administration’s commitment to public sector welfare, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has reiterated his resolve to prioritise the wellbeing of the state’s civil servants, vowing to ensure they remain at the centre of his governance strategy.
The governor made this assurance during a meeting with the Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), led by Acting State Chairman, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide.
The union leaders visited Government House to formally congratulate Governor Okpebholo on his victory at the tribunal following the September 2024 polls.
Okpebholo described worker-centred governance not as charity, but as an obligation.
“Whatever we are doing that benefits Edo workers, we are doing because it is our responsibility. Our people entrusted us with their mandate to serve them, and it is only proper that we justify that trust through action,” he stated.
He highlighted transparency as the foundation of his administration, expressing openness to constructive criticism and dialogue, which he said only serves to enhance accountability and deepen public trust.
“We are not afraid of being held accountable. On the contrary, positive criticism is a catalyst that drives us to do more.”
The governor further praised the national government’s policy direction under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, crediting it with creating a conducive environment for grassroots-focused governance in Edo.
Addressing broader governance, he emphasised the need for cohesion across all levels and zones of the state.
“We are deliberate in ensuring that the three senatorial districts feel equally represented. Unity, peace and development remain our guiding principles,” he added.
Speaking on behalf of Edo workers, Comrade Egwekhide lauded the governor’s track record so far, citing specific interventions such as the prompt disbursement of a 13th-month salary without union agitation, increased subvention to Ambrose Alli University from N41 million to N500 million, and the regularization of casual workers.
He also noted the significant rise in monthly pensions from N50 million to N1 billion for both state and local government retirees.
The union leader also disclosed the ongoing work of a committee tasked with evaluating the compulsory pension scheme, a longstanding source of anxiety among retired civil servants.
“Once concluded, the findings will be submitted for your consideration,” he told the governor.
In a separate engagement, the Governor Okpebholo welcomed the new Edo State branch controller of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Apanke Utande.
In their brief meeting, the governor called for strategic cooperation between the apex bank and the state government, particularly in efforts aimed at improving economic conditions and financial inclusion across the state.
