Okpebholo Cites 10,000 Jobs, Reduced Cult Violence In Edo

Edo State governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Friday declared that his administration has created over 10,000 jobs and drastically curbed cult-related killings, which he said have dropped from over 300 annually to almost zero.

The governor made the assertions in Benin City during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, where he addressed workers across the State.

“We have created jobs by employing over 10,000 workers, including 5,000 teachers, 1,300 healthcare workers, and 2,500 local vigilantes,” Okpebholo said, highlighting employment as a cornerstone of his administration’s strategy.

He added that the government is investing in workforce development, noting that the Local Government Training Institute in Akpako-Edo has been upgraded, with enrolment rising sharply from about 30 to over 400 trainees.

In a wide-ranging address, the governor emphasised workers’ welfare, stating that his administration has maintained prompt salary payments and sustained the 13th-month salary tradition. He also pointed to the approval of a ₦75,000 minimum wage as evidence of his commitment to improving workers’ living standards.

Okpebholo disclosed that the state has released the first tranche of ₦1billion each for the payment of outstanding salary arrears owed to staff of Ambrose Alli University and gratuities for retired local government pensioners.

On infrastructure, he said Edo has effectively become “a construction site,” with major road projects ongoing across the three senatorial districts to boost economic activity and ease movement.

The governor also announced a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme targeting traders, artisans, and small-scale entrepreneurs to stimulate the local economy.

On security, he credited decisive government action for the sharp decline in cult-related violence, adding that security agencies have been strengthened with vehicles, motorcycles, and other logistics support.

Addressing lingering concerns over the contributory pension scheme, Okpebholo revealed that a high-powered committee has been set up to review the matter and recommend solutions.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to governance driven by measurable impact, pledging continued collaboration with labour unions to build “a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Edo State.”