In a significant move aimed at improving worker welfare and streamlining governance, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has officially employed 360 cleaners into the state civil service. The new hires, drawn from all three senatorial districts of the state, represent a departure from the previous administration’s reliance on consultants and contractors for cleaning services.
Direct Employment Initiative
Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, Edo State’s Head of Service (HOS), revealed this development during a press briefing on Friday in Benin City. He emphasized that the new employment strategy reflects the Okpebholo-led administration’s commitment to people-centered governance and equitable employment practices.
“Governor Okpebholo directed that cleaners be directly employed into the state civil service instead of relying on contractors and consultants,” Okungbowa stated.
Previously, cleaning services in government ministries and parastatals were managed by contractors, who hired cleaners on a temporary basis. These workers were paid low wages, ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦30,000, and had no job security.
Improved Wages and Job Security
Under the new arrangement, the employed cleaners will now receive a ₦70,000 minimum monthly wage, aligning with the state government’s standard for civil servants.
“The governor was displeased with the arrangement under the Obaseki administration, where contractors employed cleaners at poor wages and without any job security. This new initiative ensures they are directly employed and fairly compensated,” Okungbowa explained.
Each of the new hires has been issued an official appointment letter and has been deployed to various government offices across the state to boost workforce efficiency.
Statewide Impact and Future Plans
The initiative, which spans the entire state, aims to foster inclusivity and fairness. “The cleaners employed come from all three senatorial districts in Edo State,” Okungbowa added, highlighting the government’s intent to ensure representation and equal opportunities.
The HOS also announced that this is just the first phase of employment. “There will be additional batches of recruitment as the government continues to prioritize good governance and expand its workforce,” he said.
A Shift Toward People-Centered Governance
Governor Okpebholo’s decision underscores his administration’s dedication to reforming governance practices and addressing issues of worker exploitation. By transitioning from contractor-managed employment to direct civil service hiring, the government aims to provide stability and improved living conditions for its employees.
This latest move further demonstrates the governor’s commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of Edo citizens and setting a new standard for labor practices in the state.
