The Edo State Head of Service (HOS), Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, has hailed Governor Monday Okpebholo for sustaining regular and timely payment of workers’ salaries, including the 13th-month wage in December 2024, describing the gesture as a huge relief for civil and public servants in the State.
Dr. Okungbowa, who spoke when he received a delegation of First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) at the Government House, Benin City, said that the Governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare had brought stability and comfort in the face of post-transition challenges.
“Our people are burdened with many commitments given the economic downturn in the country, but salaries have been regular.
“Many of the things we did not expect immediately because of the turbulent transition have been delivered. We thank His Excellency for all he has done, specifically the 13th-month salary and consistent payment as and when due,” he said.
He described First Bank as a trusted institution and welcomed its proposal to provide loan facilities to Edo workers.
He, however, stressed that the government would continue to regulate borrowing to protect workers from excessive indebtedness.
Earlier, the Business Manager of First Bank, Mrs. Josephine Darlington-Ogie, commended the cordial relationship between the bank and the Edo State Government, noting that the visit was to strengthen workplace banking services for civil servants.
She explained that FBN was providing seamless financial solutions, including personal loans, mortgage and auto financing, structured to ease repayment through direct salary deductions.
