Edo Workers Celebrate as Governor Okpebholo Authorizes Instant 13th-Month Salary Payment for Civil Servants and Pensioners

It is a season of double celebration for civil servants in Edo State as Governor Monday Okpebholo has officially approved and commenced the disbursement of a 13th-month salary to the entire state workforce.

The announcement, which was confirmed by several workers who received credit alerts today, Tuesday, December 30, 2025, fulfills a key welfare pledge made by the Governor during his inaugural month in office. The gesture covers all categories of state employees, including local government workers and pensioners.

In a statement released by the Governor’s spokesperson, the administration emphasized that the “13th-month bonus” is a recognition of the hard work and resilience of Edo workers throughout the 2025 fiscal year. “Governor Okpebholo believes that a motivated workforce is the engine of state development. This payment is to ensure that our workers and their families enter 2026 with dignity and joy,” the statement read.

The leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State has hailed the development as a “historic milestone.” Speaking at the Labor House in Benin, the state chairman expressed gratitude, noting that the timely payment has significantly eased the financial pressure on families during the holiday season.

“We have seen many promises in the past, but the speed and sincerity of the Okpebholo administration are refreshing,” the NLC Chairman stated. “This 13th-month salary will go a long way in helping our members manage the current economic realities.”

The bonus comes at a critical time as the nation prepares for the full rollout of the 2025 Tax Reform Acts on January 1st. By providing this liquidity injection, the Edo State Government has effectively created a temporary buffer for its citizens against the anticipated price adjustments in the market.

Beyond the financial reward, Governor Okpebholo also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to industrial peace, promising that 2026 will see further investments in civil service training and the modernization of state secretariats. For the workers of the “Heartbeat of the Nation,” the year is ending on a high note of renewed hope and financial stability.