Jubilation in Edo as governor Okpebholo approves 13th month salary for workers, automatic employment for first class graduates

From Moshood Karim

Jubilation has erupted across Edo State as Governor Monday Okpebholo announced two major initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of workers and empowering young graduates.

The governor has approved the payment of a “13th month” salary for civil servants and introduced automatic employment for First Class graduates of Edo origin.

The announcement was made in a statement released to Uptown Press by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, and has since been hailed as a transformative step in workforce development and governance.

Governor Okpebholo’s administration has launched the Graduate Development Programme (GDP), an initiative aimed at recruiting top-tier talent into the State’s civil service.

Speaking on the initiative, the Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, stated that the policy is designed to attract and retain First Class graduates from Nigerian and foreign universities.

“By employing First Class graduates, we aim to infuse innovation and professionalism into the civil service, ensuring it operates with world-class standards,” Okungbowa said. He added that participants in the GDP will undergo rotations across various ministries, departments, and agencies to gain versatile experience. Plans are also underway to expose them to private-sector opportunities to further refine their skills.

The approval of the 13th month salary is expected to boost the morale of civil servants and enhance productivity. Dr. Okungbowa praised the governor’s foresight, emphasising that the move will motivate workers to deliver their best.

“Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to both workers’ welfare and the recruitment of exceptional talent is a clear signal of his vision to build a dynamic and responsive civil service,” he said.

The automatic employment policy is a significant opportunity for young professionals from Edo State. The initiative currently targets graduates from 2020 onwards, with potential extensions being considered. The administration is also collaborating with Edo Innovate to ensure sustainability and continuous improvement of the programme.

Edo residents have expressed widespread support for the initiatives. “This is the kind of leadership we need,” said Evelyn Osaretin, a civil servant in Benin City. “It shows the governor values both the present workforce and the future leaders of the state.”

Governor Okpebholo called on First Class graduates from Edo State to take advantage of the opportunity, stressing the importance of building a robust and highly skilled workforce to drive the state’s development agenda.

With these bold policies, the governor has further solidified his administration’s commitment to enhancing governance, empowering young talents, and creating a thriving workforce in Edo State.