Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary for state workers, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
In addition, the governor announced an automatic employment policy for First Class graduates of Edo extraction from universities within and outside Nigeria.
This initiative aims to inspire Edo youths, enhance public service excellence, and provide a platform for the state’s best minds to thrive in the public space.
The announcement was made by the Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa, through a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Red Itua.
Okungbowa praised the governor’s unwavering dedication to attracting top-tier talent into the state’s workforce, positioning Edo State as a model for excellence among sub-national governments.

He said Governor Okpebholo also approved the Graduate Development Programme (GDP), a policy designed to recruit First Class graduates and other high-achieving individuals into the Edo State Civil and Public Service.
“Mr Governor has approved the policy of bringing in First Class graduates into the Edo State Civil and Public Service,” Okungbowa stated. This policy will not only attract top talents but also ensure their retention, addressing one of the key challenges in workforce development.”
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Okungbowa encouraged First Class graduates of Edo origin, from both Nigerian and international universities, to seize this opportunity for automatic employment.
While the focus is currently on recent graduates from 2020 onwards, he added that Okpebholo is considering extending eligibility to earlier years.
Okungbowa highlighted that recruits under the Graduate Development Programme would gain valuable experience by rotating across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
Plans are also in place to second participants to private sector organizations, enabling them to acquire diverse skills and knowledge that they can later apply to advance the state’s development.
“This initiative ensures that the service is enriched with quality talent,” Okungbowa said. “It’s not just about recruitment; it’s about creating a sustainable system that fosters continuous growth and improvement for the benefit of Edo State.”
He noted that the governor further partnered with Edo Innovate to enhance the programme’s efficiency and sustainability.
Okungbowa expressed optimism about the initiative’s long-term impact, stating, “The political will is there, and with our collective support, this programme will significantly contribute to the state’s progress.”