Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially absorbed more than 5,000 contract teachers into the state’s Ministry of Education as permanent staff members.
According to a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the teachers had been on contract during the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki and were receiving a monthly stipend of ₦65,000.
During a ceremony held on Wednesday at the Government House in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo personally distributed the appointment letters to the teachers. He emphasized his administration’s dedication to improving the welfare of educators and recognizing their importance in building a better educational system in Edo State.
“Teachers, I am happy to see you. I wanted it this way because I had asked several times if you had received your letters. The answer was no. So, I decided to supervise the process myself. As you collect your appointment letters today, you will also receive transport fare because I know many of you have travelled long distances,” the governor was quoted as saying.
Governor Okpebholo further highlighted the government’s commitment to teachers, describing them as vital contributors to the state’s progress. “You are very important to us. Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch,” he said, reinforcing his pledge to ensure better working conditions for educators across the state.
Addressing the teachers earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, praised their resilience and dedication despite the difficulties of working as contract staff for over three years. “You have been suffering for years, yet you have stayed committed to educating our children, waking up at night to prepare lesson notes. Beautiful schools without teachers are useless. Today, an angel has come, a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night,” Iyamu stated.
Iyamu also spoke on the achievements of Governor Okpebholo’s administration in the education sector, noting that over 68 schools have been constructed within one year to serve children across different communities. “He met Ambrose Alli University with a ₦41 million subvention and increased it to ₦500 million. Right now, a 1,500-capacity lecture theatre and a 600-capacity hostel are under construction,” he added.
The commissioner further announced the launch of the EDU-Rescue Programme, designed to provide children from low-income families with access to quality education.
“This historic regularisation marks a new chapter for Edo State’s education workforce, reflecting Governor Okpebholo’s pledge to prioritise education and the welfare of teachers who remain the backbone of the state’s development,” the statement concluded.