Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday presented cheques and scholarships to 47 families of deceased civil servants under the state’s Group Life Insurance Scheme. The event, which took place at the Government House in Benin City, included the distribution of over ₦200 million in insurance benefits and educational scholarships to one member from each family, in collaboration with Tangerine Life Insurance.
Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Okpebholo explained that the initiative was rooted in humanity and responsibility to families who lost their breadwinners while in service. He stated, “It is not just about insurance. It is about goodness. The important thing is that you receive your entitlements because of the painful loss you have suffered. Today, we are supporting you further by giving scholarships to one member of each family. This is our way of ensuring you are not left behind.”
He praised Tangerine Life Insurance for its support and efficiency, noting that the partnership has helped position Edo State among top states in Nigeria when it comes to pension and insurance reforms. Managing Director/CEO of Tangerine Life Insurance, Kehinde Borisade, applauded the governor for transforming Edo into a model for pension reform and staff welfare. He stated, “In implementing the Pension and Insurance Acts, Edo State stands out as one of the leading states, if not the leading state. Your Excellency has shown rare leadership by caring not only for active workers, but also for the families of those who have passed on. Few states in Nigeria do this.”
Borisade revealed that the firm had paid out benefits totalling more than ₦200 million to the affected families within the year, describing it as proof of the governor’s commitment to the welfare of workers and their dependents.
This latest gesture follows a previous welfare action under the Okpebholo administration in September 2025, when the state government authorised the payment of ₦47,881,801.08 to twelve families of deceased civil servants under the contributory pension scheme. During that exercise, officials stressed that the payments were not just routine procedures but a reflection of the administration’s dedication to supporting families who lost loved ones while serving the state.
