In a bold move to motivate civil servants and attract top talent, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary for workers in the state.
The governor has also rolled out an initiative guaranteeing automatic employment for all first-class graduates of Edo origin in the state’s civil service, regardless of where they obtained their degrees, within Nigeria or abroad.
This landmark initiative was announced by Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, Edo State Head of Service, who emphasized its potential to transform the state’s workforce. According to him, the move is designed to foster a culture of excellence and efficiency within the public service while addressing the challenge of retaining top-tier talents.
“Mr. Governor has approved the Graduate Development Programme (GDP), which brings together first-class graduates and high-grade degree holders into the service,” Dr. Okungbowa stated. “This policy is not just about recruitment but retention. We want to ensure that these bright minds stay in the system and contribute meaningfully to Edo State’s development.”
Okungbowa revealed that the governor is deliberate about nurturing young talents, particularly those who graduated from 2020 onward, although plans are underway to extend the policy to earlier graduates. He called on qualified Edo indigenes to seize the opportunity.
“Mr. Governor is intentional about this. He wants the best for Edo State. We urge all first-class graduates of Edo extraction, from any university worldwide, to come forward. They will have automatic employment,” Okungbowa reiterated.
The programme, according to the Head of Service, goes beyond employing first-class graduates. It includes rotations across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and partnerships with Edo Innovate to ensure skill development and exposure. Participants will also gain private sector experience before returning to public service, enriching the system with diverse perspectives and expertise.
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, highlighted the governor’s commitment to workforce transformation in a press release. “This policy reflects Mr. Governor’s vision of a dynamic and efficient civil service,” Itua noted. “By incentivizing excellence and rewarding diligence, the administration is setting the foundation for sustainable development in Edo State.”
Edo workers have lauded the governor’s 13th-month salary initiative, viewing it as a morale booster amid rising economic challenges. “This is a welcome development,” a civil servant remarked. “Governor Okpebholo is setting an example that other states should emulate.”
As the administration rolls out these ambitious reforms, the focus remains on ensuring effective service delivery, enhanced productivity, and sustained growth across Edo State.
