Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has assured teachers in the state that their contributions will now be duly recognized and rewarded under his administration.
The governor made the remarks on Wednesday while personally presenting appointment letters to 5,000 newly employed teachers, NAN reports.
“Teachers, I am happy to see you. I wanted it this way because I had asked several times if you had received your letters, and the answer was no. So, I decided to supervise the process myself,” Okpebholo said. “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.”
The presentation formally absorbed teachers who had been on contracts into the State Ministry of Education as permanent staff. Of the 5,000 teachers, 4,500 were employed under the EdoStar programme initiated by former Governor Godwin Obaseki, while 500 were newly recruited by the current administration.
Governor Okpebholo emphasized the critical role teachers play in shaping the state’s future, noting that the move reflects his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of educators.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, praised the teachers for their dedication over the past three years despite contract uncertainties. “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,” he said.
Iyamu also highlighted key achievements of the Okpebholo administration in education, including the construction of over 68 schools within one year to benefit children across Edo State.
He further noted the launch of the EDU-Rescue Programme, aimed at providing children from disadvantaged backgrounds with access to quality education.
