EDO STATE GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO GRANTS 5,000 CONTRACT TEACHERS PERMANENT EMPLOYMENT STATUS

Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has fulfilled a significant promise to the state’s education sector by formally absorbing over 5,000 contract teachers into the Ministry of Education as permanent staff, marking a landmark development in Nigeria’s education landscape.

In a statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, Fred Itua, the Governor personally handed appointment letters to the teachers at a ceremony held at Government House, underscoring the administration’s commitment to valuing educators. Fred Itua highlighted the event’s significance reflecting Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to improving welfare of teachers which is pivotal to the state’s development.

“I am happy to see you. I wanted it this way, because, I had asked several times if you had received your letters. The answer was no. So, I decided to supervise the process myself. As you collect your appointment letters today, you will also receive transport fare because I know many of you have traveled long distances,” Governor Okpebholo said emphasizing the occasion’s importance.

Governor Okpebholo further acknowledged teachers’ vital role in shaping Edo State’s future noting, “You are very important to us. Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch.” Education Commissioner Dr. Paddy Iyamu lauded teachers’ perseverance expressing appreciation for their commitment to educating children despite contract challenges.

Dr. Iyamu said, “You have been suffering for years, yet you have stayed committed to educating our children, waking up at night to prepare lesson notes. Beautiful schools without teachers are useless. Today, an angel has come, a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night.” Fred Itua conveyed Okpebholo administration achievements in education including construction of over 68 schools within one year benefiting children of diverse backgrounds.

Highlighting developments, Dr. Iyamu noted Ambrose Alli University subvention rose from ₦41 million to ₦500 million under the Okpebholo tenure; facilities include 1,500-capacity lecture theatre, 600-capacity hostel underway. EDU-Rescue Programme launched aiding poor children to access quality education reflecting Okpebholo’s pledge to prioritize education, teacher welfare as backbone of state’s progress. Fred Itua confirmed the ceremony had in attendance key officials, Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Head of Service, Anthony Okugbonwa, Special Advisers amongst others.