It was a day of tears, joy, and thunderous applause on Wednesday as Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, fulfilled a long-awaited promise by issuing permanent employment letters to over 5,000 contract teachers across the state.
The landmark ceremony, held at the Government House in Benin City, marked a defining moment in the state’s education history — officially absorbing thousands of teachers who had labored for years under contract conditions into the Edo State Ministry of Education as permanent staff.
For years, the teachers received monthly stipends of ₦65,000 under the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki, but lacked formal employment status. On Wednesday, that narrative changed.
Governor Okpebholo, visibly elated as he personally handed out the letters, said he wanted to be physically present to ensure every deserving teacher received what was rightfully theirs.
“Teachers, I am happy to see you,” the Governor said. “I had asked several times if you had received your letters, and the answer was always 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.”
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education and the welfare of teachers, describing them as the “foundation of every great society.”
“You are very important to us. Your reward is no longer in heaven; it is here, under our watch,” Okpebholo declared to roaring applause.
Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, praised the resilience of the teachers, who he said had endured years of uncertainty yet remained steadfast in their calling.
“You have suffered, yet you stayed committed to educating our children. Beautiful schools without teachers are useless. Today, an angel has come — a leader who thinks about your welfare day and night,” he said.
Dr. Iyamu highlighted the strides made under Okpebholo’s administration, including the construction of 68 new schools in one year and the revitalization of Ambrose Alli University, whose monthly subvention was raised from ₦41 million to ₦500 million. He also cited ongoing projects such as a 1,500-capacity lecture theatre and a 600-capacity hostel, as well as the EDU-Rescue Programme, which aims to give children from poor backgrounds access to quality education.
The event was graced by top government officials including the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., Head of Service, Anthony Okugbonwa, Esq., and several Special Advisers.
As the newly confirmed teachers danced and sang in gratitude, one thing was clear: the Okpebholo administration had not only given them jobs — it had restored their dignity.
