Civil servants in Edo State have commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for the payment of the 13th-month salary, describing the gesture as timely, thoughtful, and a significant boost to workers’ morale.
A visit by journalists to the Edo State Secretariat and key ministries including the Ministry of Information and Strategy; Ministry of Lands and Housing; Ministry of Environment and Sustainability; and the Ministry of Education, Iyaro revealed widespread appreciation among workers who confirmed receiving the payment.
At the Ministry of Information and Strategy, the Director of Orientation, Mrs. Rose Imonikhe, described the payment as a pleasant surprise, noting that it brought visible joy to civil servants across the state.
She said the additional income would ease financial pressures during the festive period and help workers meet obligations such as school fees and rent renewals as they enter the new year.
Mrs. Imonikhe added that the gesture demonstrated the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare and urged civil servants to reciprocate by showing greater dedication to duty, emphasizing that the civil service remains central to the delivery of democratic dividends.
Similar views were shared by staff of the Ministry of Lands and Housing, including Beatrice Ihulde, Precious Abu, Bridget Igbinovia, and Onyinyechi Florence, who described the payment as a clear sign of a people-focused administration.
At the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, the Director of Administration, Mrs. Egbe Jocy, said the initiative would enhance morale and productivity within the civil service.
Many workers agreed that the payment has brought relief and renewed confidence in the state government’s commitment to inclusive and welfare-driven governance.
Okpebholo had announced the implementation of the 13th-month salary shortly after assuming office in November 2024.
