The acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Edo State chapter, Bernard Joman, has commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his proactive approach to workers’ welfare, describing him as a “worker-friendly governor.”
Joman’s remarks came in response to the payment of the 13th-month salary to public servants in the state, a gesture he said was made without any prompting from the NLC.
“What the governor has done shows that he is truly worker-friendly,” Joman noted. “He paid the 13th-month salary voluntarily and without pressure from the NLC. This act of goodwill deserves recognition, and I urge workers to reciprocate by redoubling their efforts on the job.”
The labour leader expressed confidence that the initiative, aimed at boosting morale during the festive period, would become a permanent feature of Governor Okpebholo’s administration.
The Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, applauded the prompt payment of both November salaries and the 13th-month salary, noting that the move reflected the governor’s commitment to improving the productivity and dedication of the workforce.
On Monday, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, announced that Okpebholo had fulfilled his promise to pay workers 13th-month salary.
He said, “Governor Okpebholo has fulfilled one of his promises to Edo State workers by paying the 13th-month salary to make the festive period more enjoyable. This underscores his commitment to ensuring the welfare of workers is a top priority.”
Joman expressed optimism that Governor Okpebholo’s administration would continue to set a positive example in labour relations, ensuring a harmonious and productive working environment in Edo State.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo, who was sworn in on the 12th of November 2024, paid civil and public servants in the state on the 27th of November amidst criticism by the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, telling workers in the state that they will not get their salaries on time.
“Governor Okpebholo is not an accidental governor but he came prepared for governance as such within two weeks of assuming office as governor of Edo State fulfilled his promises to Edo State workers as he paid their November salaries without any delay,” Joman said.
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