BY TOBORE JEROME
In the evolving landscape of Nigerian governance, true leadership is measured not only by infrastructure and policy reforms but also by the welfare of the people.
His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, has steadily earned a reputation as a leader who places the dignity and wellbeing of workers at the heart of his administration.
From the outset, Governor Okpebholo recognised that Edo’s productivity depends on the strength and motivation of its workforce. His administration has ensured prompt salary payments, addressed pension arrears, and improved working conditions across ministries, agencies, and departments. In doing so, he has restored confidence among civil servants who, for the past eight years, had struggled under contractual uncertainty.
Governor Okpebholo understands that workers thrive when their environment supports growth. His policies target improved healthcare, education, and housing, recognising that these directly affect workers and their families. Investments in digital tools and training programmes further reflect his vision for a modern Edo workforce capable of competing in the 21st-century economy.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, in a statement on Monday, September 8, 2025, said Governor Okpebholo, within just nine months in office, has undertaken bold and historic reforms that are transforming Edo’s civil and public service into one of the most efficient and professional in the country.
According to him, the governor has shown unusual attention to the workforce, making it clear that the administration’s promise of renewal cannot be realised without a motivated, professional, and well-resourced civil service.
One of the most remarkable reforms, the statement noted, is the governor’s decision to end outsourced cleaning contracts and directly employ 1,000 cleaners as civil servants.
“This move, which guarantees dignity, job security, and full protection under civil service rules, was taken after Governor Okpebholo insisted that funds previously spent on contractors could sustainably cover direct employment at the new minimum wage of ₦75,000,” Itua said.
He added that nearly 2,000 new staff have been recruited across critical sectors—health, education, and agriculture—bringing the total number of new employees to over 3,000 in less than a year. More than 1,300 health workers have been absorbed into the Hospitals Management Agency, while over 4,000 EdoSTAR teachers have been made permanent staff, giving them stability and recognition.
The governor has also approved the recruitment of graduate doctors, health personnel, and agricultural extension officers to close workforce gaps, while continuing fresh recruitment in education to complement the state’s unprecedented investment in school infrastructure.
The Civil Service Commission, now reconstituted, is set to clear the backlog of promotions, which will be merit-based through the Edo-PREP system—a reform designed to retool officers and ensure that competence and excellence are rewarded.
On welfare, Governor Okpebholo has sustained prompt salary payments on or before the 26th of every month and ensured payment of a 13th-month wage in December 2024. Edo is now one of only three states in Nigeria paying a ₦75,000 minimum wage, a policy described as life-changing for workers and their families.
Pensioners have also benefited, with ₦300 million released monthly for gratuities, ₦1 billion dedicated to clearing arrears dating back to 2012, and over ₦65 million paid in insurance claims to families of deceased staff.
“The Edo State Government assures workers, pensioners, and the public of its unwavering commitment to the SHINE Agenda, ensuring that Edo people continue to reap the dividends of purposeful, people-centred governance,” Itua added.
In a political climate where many leaders prioritise short-term projects for visibility, Governor Okpebholo is distinguishing himself by building a legacy of care. By safeguarding the welfare of workers, he is not only strengthening Edo’s public service but also laying the foundation for sustainable development.
Governor Monday Okpebholo stands out as a leader attuned to the struggles and aspirations of Edo workers. His policies reflect an understanding that workers’ welfare is not an act of generosity but a necessary investment in the state’s growth and stability. In doing so, he is redefining leadership in Edo State as one that listens, cares, and delivers.
