Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken significant steps to bolster employment by approving the recruitment of 360 new civil service positions from the three senatorial districts.
In an announcement made on Friday, it was revealed that these newly appointed cleaners will be assigned to various ministries and parastatals, enhancing the state’s workforce. The State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, provided insights during a press briefing in Benin City, outlining the initiatives being implemented under the current administration’s people-centered approach.
Okungbowa highlighted the shortcomings of the previous administration, which relied heavily on contractors for cleaning services, resulting in job insecurity and meager wages for the workers. He emphasized that the newly employed cleaners will receive a minimum wage of N70,000, showcasing the Okpebholo administration’s commitment to equitable governance.
“Governor Monday Okpebholo has mandated that cleaners be directly employed within the state civil service instead of being outsourced to consultants and contractors,” Okungbowa stated. “The previous arrangement left these workers underpaid and vulnerable, with salaries falling between N20,000 and N30,000 due to the profit motives of contractors.”
The Head of Service reiterated the administration’s dedication to improving living standards for Edo citizens through direct employment, ensuring that they benefit from fair wages and practical governance. The current recruitment marks just the beginning, with plans to hire additional cleaners to adequately staff government offices.
The newly appointed cleaners have received their appointment letters and will serve across the three senatorial districts, reflecting the administration’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities in Edo State.