Workers’ Day: Labour talks aiding development in Edo, says Okpebholo

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said constructive engagement with workers has enabled his administration to maintain focus on development.

Okpebholo stated this on Friday in his address at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, noting that workers’ welfare has remained a top priority since he assumed office.

He said his administration increased the minimum wage to ₦75,000, sustained the payment of the 13th-month salary and ensured prompt payment of salaries.

“I am delighted to join the hardworking men and women of Edo State on this special occasion of Workers’ Day 2026.

“Today, we celebrate those whose daily efforts keep our state moving forward. From teachers to health workers, civil servants, artisans, traders and security personnel, you are the backbone of Edo’s progress,” he said.

The governor also commended labour leaders for maintaining a cordial relationship with the government.

“Let me appreciate our labour leaders for their support and cooperation. Your constructive engagement has helped us focus on development,” he added.

He disclosed that the state government released ₦1bn for the payment of salary arrears at Ambrose Alli University and another ₦1bn for the payment of outstanding gratuities to retired local government pensioners.

According to him, over 10,000 workers have been employed under his administration, including 5,000 teachers, 1,300 healthcare workers and 2,500 local vigilantes.

He also said the government was upgrading the Local Government Training Institute, Okpako-Edo, where enrolment had increased significantly.

“To strengthen personnel administration, we have appointed credible and competent individuals into the Civil Service Commission and the Local Government Service Commission,” he said.

Okpebholo further stated that the government launched a ₦1bn interest-free loan scheme for traders, artisans and entrepreneurs to boost economic activities.

He added that the state had become a construction hub due to ongoing infrastructure projects across the three senatorial districts aimed at improving mobility and access to markets.

On security, the governor said cult-related killings had dropped significantly due to proactive measures, adding that security agencies had been equipped with vehicles, motorcycles and other logistics.

“These achievements were made possible by the economic reforms of our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Let us continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

He also addressed concerns over the contributory pension scheme, stating that a high-powered committee had been set up to review the issue and make recommendations.

Okpebholo reiterated that his administration would continue to work with labour in mutual respect and good faith.

“We believe governance must be measured by impact, not promises. We will continue to work with labour to build a stronger, safer and more prosperous Edo State,” he said.