Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, has approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 for all state workers.
The governor made the announcement during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where he was addressing thousands of jubilant workers and labour union representatives.
“Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of Seventy-Five Thousand Naira (₦75,000). This is not just a policy decision—it is a statement of gratitude and a commitment to shared prosperity,” Governor Okpebholo declared to thunderous applause.
He further emphasized: “We believe this adjustment will significantly ease the burden on Edo workers amid rising living costs. In return, we count on your renewed dedication as partners in building a greater, more prosperous Edo.”
“Since assuming office, my administration has remained fully committed to the welfare of our workers. One of our first actions in office was to convert many casual workers, including over 1,000 cleaners who, for years, had no job security into the core civil service, giving them stability and peace of mind.
“We hired 500 new teachers to ease classroom pressure and help students learn better. We are also reviewing the casual position of over 3,000 Edo State teachers for possible full employment because their effort will shape our children’s future,” he said.
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Continuing, Okpebholo said, “We approved the recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical staff for our State hospitals and regularized 126 contract staff at Edo State Specialist hospital. These steps not only strengthen our health system but also improve job stability for health professionals.”
The Governor also used the medium to inform the public that his administration has cleared outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo State polytechnic staff. “In the judiciary, we made sure that judges who had been delayed in their appointments were properly sworn in and now fully carrying out their duties.
“To show our commitment doesn’t end at retirement, we have also approved health insurance coverage for our retirees because we believed that our responsibility to workers doesn’t end when they leave active service.”
Governor Okpebholo said his administration is committed to timely payment of salaries and pension; steady recruitment where needed to improve service delivery; staff welfare and development and ensuring that Edo workers are treated with dignity and fairness.
“As we mark this day, I joined His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and my fellow governor’s in wishing all Nigerian workers a peaceful and fulfilling celebration. Your efforts shaped our nation and laid the foundation for a better tomorrow.”
