Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has announced an upward revision of the state’s minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦75,000. The announcement was made during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

The governor, while addressing the gathering, praised Edo workers for their dedication to the state's growth and emphasized that the wage increase was a demonstration of his administration’s appreciation and commitment to improving their standard of living. He described the wage adjustment as a meaningful step towards alleviating the economic pressure faced by workers.

The celebration also featured remarks by the Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State chapter, Comrade Bernard Egwekhide, who lauded Governor Okpebholo’s worker-centered initiatives. He noted that in just six months in office, the governor had exceeded expectations in addressing workers’ welfare and rights. Egwekhide also highlighted the significance of this year’s Workers’ Day theme, “Reclaiming the Civil Space Amid Economic Hardship,” stating that it accurately reflected the present challenges faced by Nigerian workers.

In his address, the governor outlined several reforms implemented by his administration to strengthen the state workforce. These include the conversion of over 1,000 casual workers into permanent staff, the recruitment of 500 new teachers, and an ongoing review of over 3,000 casual teachers for full employment. Additionally, the government approved the hiring of 450 clinical and non-clinical health workers and regularized 126 contract staff at the Edo State Specialist Hospital.

Governor Okpebholo also announced that his administration had cleared outstanding salary arrears owed to Edo Polytechnic staff. He confirmed that judicial appointments previously delayed had now been regularized, allowing judges to fully assume their constitutional roles. Furthermore, his administration approved health insurance coverage for retirees, signaling a commitment to supporting workers even after they leave active service.

Comrade Egwekhide expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu. He acknowledged the progress on the state’s first flyover currently under construction and the approval of a second. He also commended the rehabilitation of several federal roads across the state, which he said had long required attention.

Governor Okpebholo concluded his remarks by reaffirming his administration’s focus on prompt salary and pension payments, transparent recruitment processes, and the professional development of public servants. He joined President Tinubu and fellow governors in wishing Nigerian workers a peaceful and fulfilling May Day celebration.