Edo Erupts In Jubilation As Governor Okpebholo Pays Workers 13th-Month Salary

The payment was confirmed on Tuesday, December 30, by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Mr. Patrick Ebojele. Speaking with PUNCH, Ebojele said the gesture reflects the governor’s pro-worker stance and is intended to ease financial pressure on public servants, especially during the festive season.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

He explained that Governor Okpebholo introduced the 13th-month salary initiative shortly after assuming office last year and has sustained the policy this year to enhance workers’ morale and productivity. According to him, the administration remains resolute in placing workers’ welfare at the heart of its governance agenda.

Civil servants across various ministries and agencies have welcomed the development, describing it as timely and uplifting. The Director of Orientation at the Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mrs. Rose Imonikhe, told journalists she was pleasantly surprised after receiving the payment early in the day.

“I woke up this morning to the alert — the 13th-month salary. I’m truly grateful to the governor. You can see the joy on my face, and that’s how many Edo civil servants are feeling,” she said.

Imonikhe noted that the payment would help cushion the financial strain many workers face after Christmas spending.

“Most people would have exhausted their December salaries during the festive period, so this will help them start the new year with some relief,” she added.

She further explained that the extra income would assist workers in meeting key obligations such as school fees and rent.

“Those with children’s school fees or rent renewals will find this very helpful. This 13th-month salary will make a significant difference,” she said.

Commending the governor, Imonikhe urged civil servants to reciprocate the gesture through greater commitment to their duties.

“The governor has done his part. It is now up to civil servants to respond with dedication and efficiency. He is eager to deliver the dividends of democracy, and the civil service is central to achieving that goal,” she stated.

Similarly, the Director of Administration at the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Egbe Jocy, praised the initiative, saying it would further boost morale and productivity within the service.

Many other civil servants who spoke to the media echoed similar sentiments, describing the payment as a relief and a reaffirmation of the government’s people-focused approach.

Governor Okpebholo introduced the 13th-month salary payment for Edo State civil servants shortly after assuming office in November 2024, and the policy has remained a key feature of his administration.