Gov Okpebholo Revolutionizes Edo Civil Service with 13th-Month Salary

In a groundbreaking move, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced two major initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of workers and attracting top talent to the state’s civil service.

These include the approval of a “13th month” salary for state employees and a new policy granting automatic employment to First Class graduates of Edo State origin from universities worldwide.

The announcement was made by the state’s Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, during a media briefing, where he described the measures as transformative steps toward building a more efficient and motivated civil service.

The new Graduate Development Programme (GDP) is designed to bring high-quality graduates into the workforce, fostering innovation and improving service delivery across government departments.

According to Okungbowa, this initiative will target graduates from 2020 onward, creating opportunities for the state’s brightest minds to contribute to its development.

“Governor Okpebholo’s policy aims to attract top-level talent and retain them in Edo State’s workforce.

This is not just about employment but about creating a system where excellence is recognized and rewarded,” Okungbowa stated.

The approval of the 13th-month salary is expected to boost morale among state workers, motivating them to deliver their best in service.

The move is part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader strategy to prioritize worker welfare and foster a culture of appreciation and dedication in the civil service.

“These initiatives are a testament to the Governor’s commitment to improving the lives of workers and ensuring that Edo State becomes a model for governance and development,” Okungbowa added.

The automatic employment policy is set to position Edo State as a destination for highly talented professionals.

By focusing on First Class graduates of Edo origin, the government is aiming to reverse brain drain and encourage the state’s brightest to stay and contribute to its progress.

The Head of Service urged eligible graduates to seize the opportunity, emphasizing the importance of their skills in driving the state’s growth.

Governor Okpebholo’s initiatives come at a time when many states in Nigeria face challenges in retaining talent and ensuring workforce motivation.

By linking welfare improvements with talent recruitment, Edo State is setting an example for innovative governance.

As these policies are implemented, all eyes will be on Edo State to see how these reforms translate into improved service delivery and economic development.

For now, the Governor’s bold steps have generated optimism and a renewed sense of purpose among workers and aspiring professionals in the state.