In a bold May Day move, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced an increase in the minimum wage to ₦75,000, reinforcing his administration’s focus on worker welfare and economic upliftment.

• Edo workers’ minimum wage raised to ₦75,000, highest among Nigerian states.

• Okpebholo reveals employment of new teachers, healthcare staff, and regularization of casual workers.

• Retirees to receive health insurance, and judiciary appointments have been fully regularized.

A May Day to Remember in Edo State

Edo State workers got more than just words of appreciation this May 1st. Governor Monday Okpebholo used the Workers’ Day celebration to announce a wage increase that’s making headlines across Nigeria.

Speaking at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the governor declared a ₦5,000 raise, bumping the state’s minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦75,000 per month.

“Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 per month for Edo workers,” Okpebholo said, drawing applause from the crowd.

More Than Just a Pay Raise

But the announcement didn’t stop at salaries. The governor detailed several other worker-focused initiatives.

Upon taking office, his administration converted over 1,000 casual cleaners into full-time civil servants, offering them job security and peace of mind.

“Since assuming office, my administration has remained fully committed to the welfare of our workers,” he said.

To improve education, 500 new teachers were recruited, and the government is currently reviewing the employment status of over 3,000 additional educators for potential full integration.

Boosting Health and Judiciary Sectors

In the health sector, 450 clinical and non-clinical workers were hired, while 126 contract staff at the Edo State Specialist Hospital were regularized.

“These steps not only strengthen our health system but also improve job stability for health professionals,” Okpebholo explained.

Meanwhile, in the judiciary, judges whose appointments had been stalled were finally sworn in, ensuring a more effective justice delivery system.

Caring Beyond Retirement

Perhaps one of the most impactful announcements was the introduction of health insurance coverage for retirees.

“To show our commitment doesn’t end at retirement, we have approved health insurance coverage for our retirees,” the governor said. “We believe that our responsibility to workers doesn’t end when they leave active service.”

Edo’s recent wage hike places it among the states offering the highest minimum wage in Nigeria, sending a clear message about the governor’s priorities.

As the state marks May Day, workers now have more than just hope they have tangible gains.