Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo
In a landmark move to boost education in Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo has officially confirmed the permanent employment of 5,000 contract teachers, transitioning them into full-time staff under the state’s Ministry of Education.
The teachers, who had worked for years under contract terms earning a ₦65,000 monthly stipend since the last administration, were handed their appointment letters during a well-attended event at the Government House in Benin on Wednesday.
Governor Okpebholo personally oversaw the distribution of the letters and used the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s dedication to improving the welfare of educators across the 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. But the answer I received was no, and so I decided to supervise the process myself,” the governor told the excited crowd.
He further announced that each teacher would receive transport allowances to ease the burden of travel, acknowledging that many had come from distant locations.
“As you collect your appointment letters today, you will also receive transport fare because I know many of you have had to travel long distances,” he said.
In a heartwarming remark that drew loud applause, Okpebholo told the teachers: “Your reward is not in heaven. Your reward is here on earth.”
Speaking earlier, Commissioner for Education Dr. Paddy Iyamu outlined the strides made by the current administration in transforming the education landscape of the state.
He revealed that over 68 new schools had been built in the last year alone, part of a broader plan to enhance learning environments.
Iyamu also spoke about the launch of the EDU-Rescue Programme, a state-led initiative aimed at reducing the number of out-of-school children and ensuring that even those from low-income families have access to quality education.
Commending the teachers for their dedication despite difficult conditions, he said, “You have been suffering for years, yet you have stayed committed to educating our children, waking up at night to prepare lesson notes.”
He added: “Beautiful schools without teachers are useless. Today, an angel has come—a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night.”
The event drew key figures from the state’s leadership, including Secretary to the State Government Umar Ikhilor, Head of Service Anthony Okugbonwa, and several special advisers and senior government officials.
NAN
