His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has undertaken bold reforms that are transforming Edo State’s civil service into one of the most efficient in Nigeria within just nine months of office.
The Edo State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, is championing the reforms. He commended the Governor’s “visionary commitment to the civil service,” describing it as “the engine room of governance.” He noted that Governor Okpebholo has shown “unusual attention to the workforce,” making it clear that the state’s promise of renewal needs a motivated and professional civil service.
One of the most remarkable changes is the decision to end outsourced cleaning contracts. Instead, the government will directly employ 1,000 cleaners as full civil servants. This move guarantees them dignity, job security, and full protection under civil service rules. Governor Okpebholo insisted that funds previously spent on contractors could sustainably cover direct employment at the new minimum wage of ₦75,000.
In addition, close to 2,000 new staff have been recruited in critical sectors like health, education, and agriculture. This brings the total number of new employees to over 3,000 in less than a year. Furthermore, more than 1,300 health workers have been absorbed into the Hospitals Management Agency, and over 4,000 EdoSTAR teachers have been made permanent staff.
On welfare, the administration has sustained prompt salary payments on or before the 26th of every month. It also paid a 13th-month wage in December 2024. Edo is now one of only three states in Nigeria paying a ₦75,000 minimum wage, a policy described as life-changing for workers.
Pensioners have also benefited, with ₦300 million released monthly for gratuities and ₦1 billion dedicated to clearing arrears from as far back as 2012.
Significant investments have been directed into infrastructure and institutional renewal. The government is renovating buildings to house ministries and rehabilitating doctors’ quarters. Reforms like a new Civil Service Anthem and a dress code have also helped to rekindle pride within the service.
“Governor Okpebholo sees, he acts, and he takes responsibility. He is not only reforming structures but rebuilding confidence and restoring value in public service,” Dr. Okungbowa stated. He added that with the Governor’s vision, these reforms are achievable, noting that “the nation is watching, and Edo is setting the pace.”
The Edo State Government assures its workers and the public of its unwavering commitment to its SHINE Agenda.
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