Governor personally presents letters to 5,000 newly employed teachers
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has assured teachers in the state that their contributions to nation-building will be rewarded during their lifetime, not deferred to the afterlife.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday during the official presentation of appointment letters to 5,000 newly employed teachers across the state. The event, which took place in Benin City, marked a significant step in the state government’s effort to strengthen its education system and improve the welfare of teachers.
Governor Okpebholo personally presented the letters to the teachers, underscoring the importance of the ceremony and his administration’s commitment to ensuring that educators receive the recognition they deserve.
“Teachers, 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,” he said.
“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. You are very important to us. Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch.”
Teachers officially absorbed into the civil service
With the presentation of appointment letters, teachers who had previously been engaged on contract have now been officially absorbed into the Edo State civil service as permanent staff under the Ministry of Education.
Governor Okpebholo described teachers as the backbone of the education system and emphasized their vital role in shaping the future of the state.
“Our teachers are builders of society. The quality of education our children receive depends on their dedication and well-being. This is why we must prioritize their welfare,” the governor stated.
The governor explained that his administration will continue to invest in education infrastructure, teacher training, and welfare packages to create a more supportive environment for educators and students alike.
4,500 EdoStar teachers absorbed, 500 newly recruited
According to reports, 4,500 of the teachers receiving appointment letters were previously engaged under the EdoStar programme, which was introduced by the former administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. An additional 500 teachers were newly recruited through the state government’s employment drive.
The integration of these teachers into the state’s workforce is expected to reduce the teacher deficit in schools, especially in rural communities where manpower shortages have been a persistent challenge.
Commissioner for Education praises teachers’ resilience
Speaking earlier at the event, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, commended the teachers for their resilience and commitment over the past three years, despite the uncertainties of being contract staff.
“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,” he said.
“Today, an angel has come, a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night.”
Iyamu also used the occasion to highlight some of the achievements of Okpebholo’s administration in the education sector.
Education infrastructure and access receive boost
The Commissioner disclosed that over 68 new schools have been constructed within the governor’s first year in office, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving learning environments for children across all communities in Edo State.
In addition to infrastructure, the government has launched the EDU-Rescue Programme, which aims to provide access to quality education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. The initiative seeks to ensure that no child in Edo State is left behind due to financial or social barriers.
“Education is the foundation of development. When we build schools and empower teachers, we are investing in a future where every Edo child has the chance to succeed,” Iyamu added.
Strengthening the teaching workforce
The mass employment and absorption of teachers represent a major step toward achieving the government’s broader education reform goals. With more teachers on board, the state hopes to improve pupil-to-teacher ratios, enhance learning outcomes, and ensure equal access to education across both urban and rural communities.
Governor Okpebholo also reassured the teachers that his administration would continue to prioritize their welfare through prompt payment of salaries, training opportunities, and an enabling work environment.
A new chapter for education in Edo State
The presentation of appointment letters has been widely praised as a positive move toward revitalizing education in Edo State. Education stakeholders, parents, and community leaders have described the development as a turning point for the state’s education sector, especially at the basic education level.
As the state prepares to implement more education-focused initiatives, many teachers expressed optimism that the new administration will match its words with action, ensuring lasting improvements in their conditions of service.
