Gov. Okpebholo Increases Edo Minimum Wage to N75,000: A New Chapter for Workers

In a move that delighted many across Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo made a bold announcement this Workers’ Day — the state’s minimum wage has officially been increased from N70,000 to N75,000. The declaration came during his May Day address at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, marking a significant step in his administration’s commitment to prioritizing worker welfare.

A Thank-You to Edo Workers

Governor Okpebholo expressed deep gratitude to the state’s workers, acknowledging their relentless contributions to development across Edo. “Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of N75,000 per month for all Edo workers,” he said. “It’s our way of saying thank you. We believe this makes a real difference.”

For many in the crowd, the announcement felt like more than a raise — it was validation. In an era of economic uncertainty, that extra N5,000 represents hope, and more importantly, trust that leadership is listening.

Backing Words with Action

Since assuming office, Okpebholo’s administration has taken several concrete steps to enhance the lives of civil servants. Early in his tenure, over 1,000 casual workers, including cleaners, were converted into permanent staff. He also announced the recruitment of 500 new teachers, and an ongoing review that could lead to the full employment of over 3,000 casual teachers.

In the healthcare sector, the state greenlit the recruitment of 450 hospital staff — both clinical and non-clinical — and regularized the status of 126 contract workers at the Edo State Specialist Hospital. According to the governor, this was done in the interest of “stability and growth.”

Clearing Debts, Empowering the Judiciary

The administration hasn’t just focused on new hires. Outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff have been cleared. In the judiciary, long-delayed appointments of judges were finalized, allowing them to begin their constitutional duties without administrative bottlenecks.

Okpebholo also announced a new health insurance scheme for retirees — a move applauded by many as forward-thinking. “Support must continue after workers leave active service,” he noted.

A Promising Collaboration with the Federal Government

Speaking on broader developments, Acting NLC Chairman, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, praised the governor’s efforts, stating that Okpebholo had outperformed expectations within just six months in office. He highlighted not just state-level reforms, but also key partnerships with the Federal Government.

One major milestone: the construction of Edo’s first flyover is underway, with a second already approved. Additionally, long-neglected federal roads are finally being rehabilitated, thanks to collaboration between Edo State and the Tinubu-led Federal Government.

Egwekhide, echoing the May Day theme, “Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship,” emphasized the importance of governance that genuinely serves the people. “Your achievements show real commitment to the needs of workers,” he told the governor.

A New Era of Accountability and Compassion

While Edo’s economic landscape remains challenging, the tone from government this May Day feels different — not just celebratory, but personal. The actions taken so far paint a picture of an administration aware of its responsibilities and willing to deliver.

By pushing the minimum wage to N75,000 and backing that with systemic improvements, Governor Okpebholo is setting a new bar. Whether this momentum continues will depend on follow-through, but for now, workers across Edo have more reason to believe — and more cash in their pockets to show for it.