Workers Day: Gov Okpebholo Celebrates Edo Worker's ’ Resilience, Contributions To State’s Development----- Increases Minimum Wage To 75,000.

By Favour Percy-Idubor 

Edo state Governor,  Senator Monday Okpebholo has  applauded the hard work, resilience, and invaluable contributions of the workforce, who he said are the pillars of the society. 

The governor also raised the minimum wage for Edo workers from #70,000.00 to #75,000.00, to improve their standard of living 

Speaking at the workers Day celebration held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, the governor said, "Your dedication drives the State’s economy, shapes our communities, and influences the future of our State".

Okpebholo acknowledged the sacrifices made by workers across various sectors, from civil servants and healthcare professionals to teachers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. And, appreciated wirkers commitment to excellence and their role in advancing progress and development.

The governor stated that inline with his administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare, he has  consistently prioritized the enhancement of Working Conditions, Created safe and conducive work environments to enhance productivity and well-being.

Speaking further the governor said,  " Since assuming office, my administration has remained fully committed to the welfare of our workers.

"One of our first actions was converting many casual workers, including over 1,000 cleaners who for for years had no job, security into permanent employees, giving them stability and peace of mind.

"In education center, we hired 500 teachers to ease classroom pressure and help students learn better. We are also redeeming over 3,000 Edusat workers to incorporate them into civil service. Because of every effort to shaping our children's future, it matters. We are taking similar stand in the health centers. We approved recruitment of 450 clinical and non-clinical staff for our state hospitals. I regularize 126 contract staff at Edo Specialist Hospital".

"Going forward, we remain committed timely payment of salary, steady recruitment when needed to improve service delivery, staff welfare and development. I ensure that those workers are treated with dignity and fairness. Today, I am proud to announce our administration has approved a new minimum wages of 75,000 naira.

"It is our way of saying thank you. We believe this we make a real difference And in return, we can count on your renewed dedication as we build a better Edo together".

The Governor commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their advocacy for workers’ rights and social justice. And, encouraged all workers to remain dedicated to service and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the state. 

Earlier in his speech,  the acting chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State chapter, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide commended the governor of Edo State senator Monday Okpebholo for the formations and implementation of laudable policies and programmes towards alleviating the suffering and hardships faced by Edo workers and pensioners.