Benin City — Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday announced a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 for workers in the state, as part of activities marking the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration.
The announcement was made at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, where workers from various unions and associations gathered to commemorate this year’s May Day, themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”
Addressing the workers as the Special Guest of Honour, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of workers and citizens across the state.
Highlighting some of his administration’s achievements, he cited the recruitment of new civil servants, regularisation of contract staff in the health sector, and payment of outstanding salary arrears as part of his broader reforms aimed at enriching the lives of Edo residents.
The governor’s ₦75,000 minimum wage announcement was met with loud applause and described by many as a significant gesture of support for workers amidst rising economic challenges.
Acting Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Bernard Joman, and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Peter Asemota, in their separate speeches, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for being a worker-friendly leader. While appreciating his strides so far, they also tabled new demands on behalf of Edo workers.
The new minimum wage was hailed as a “May Day gift” that aligns with the governor’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at building a more prosperous and inclusive Edo State where the well-being of workers remains a top priority.
