Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 for all workers in the state’s civil service, raising the bar from the previous ₦70,000. The announcement was made during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Addressing thousands of workers and union leaders at the event, Okpebholo said the decision was aimed at improving the living conditions of Edo workers amid the current economic hardship.
“Today, I am proud to announce that our administration has approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 per month for all Edo workers,” he declared. “This is our way of saying thank you for your dedication and commitment to building a better Edo.”
The governor used the occasion to highlight several of his administration’s recent achievements in the area of workers’ welfare, including the regularisation of over 1,000 casual workers and the recruitment of 500 new teachers. He also stated that a review is ongoing to absorb over 3,000 casual teachers into full-time positions.
In the healthcare sector, Okpebholo revealed that 450 clinical and non-clinical staff had been recruited, and 126 contract workers at the Edo State Specialist Hospital were recently made permanent staff.
“We’ve also cleared all salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff and ensured that all newly appointed judges are sworn in and actively discharging their duties,” he said.
The governor highlighted that prompt salary and pension payments, structured recruitment, and professional development remain top priorities for his government. He also mentioned that retirees now benefit from the state’s health insurance scheme, underscoring a long-term approach to workers’ welfare even after service.
The acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, praised the governor’s leadership and proactive policies. He described the increase in minimum wage as a welcome relief during challenging economic times and lauded the administration for its responsiveness to workers’ needs.
“Within six months in office, you have performed excellently. Your achievements surpass our expectations and reflect a real commitment to the welfare of workers,” Egwekhide said.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting development in Edo State, pointing to ongoing federal road projects and the construction of the first flyover in the state, with another one recently approved.
This wage increase positions Edo as one of the few states in Nigeria currently offering workers above the national minimum wage, which remains ₦30,000 officially, pending ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and labour unions.
The theme for this year’s May Day celebration was “Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship”, which the NLC said reflects the daily struggles of workers and the urgent need for responsive governance at all levels.
