The Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT), Edo State Wing, has honoured Governor Monday Okpebholo with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his sweeping reforms and steadfast commitment to repositioning the education sector in Edo State.
The award was presented to the Governor at the Government House, Benin City, during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the NUT, led by its State Chairman, Comrade Bernard Ajobiewe, alongside the Acting Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Bernard Jormah Egwahide.
Speaking after receiving the award, Governor Okpebholo expressed profound appreciation to Edo teachers for their dedication and patriotism, describing them as “the backbone of the State’s development.”
He reaffirmed education as the cornerstone of his administration’s human capital agenda, announcing plans to recruit 3,000 additional teachers to strengthen classroom delivery and improve learning outcomes across public schools.
“Teachers remain a top priority in our development agenda. We are building and renovating schools across Edo, and as infrastructure improves, so must manpower. Our goal is to ensure that no school lacks qualified teachers and that every child receives quality education in a conducive learning environment,” the Governor said.
Governor Okpebholo declared that the era of overcrowded classrooms and combined lessons had ended, stressing that his reforms were restoring public confidence in the education system. He also stated that his government would focus on performance and measurable results rather than political rhetoric.
“If the last administration had performed well, Edo people would have felt it. We are rebuilding the system and restoring pride in our schools. My administration is committed to results, not rhetoric,” he added.
The Governor further assured continued collaboration with labour unions to sustain industrial harmony and promote collective progress. He pledged to donate a new operational bus to the NUT to support its statewide monitoring and coordination across Edo’s 18 local government areas.
“We will continue to maintain a strong working relationship with the NUT and all labour unions. The welfare of teachers remains at the heart of our education reforms,” he emphasized.
In his remarks, NUT Chairman, Comrade Bernard Ajobiewe, lauded the Governor for regularising the employment of over 5,000 Edo-Star teachers, who had remained on contract for more than three years under the previous administration.
“In less than a year, our story as teachers has changed from frustration to fulfilment. Governor Okpebholo has not only restored dignity to the teaching profession but rekindled hope in public education. His actions demonstrate true leadership and empathy,” Ajobiewe said.
Similarly, Acting NLC Chairman, Comrade Bernard Jormah Egwahide, commended the Governor’s people-oriented leadership and pledged continued union support for his administration.
“We are grateful to a governor who listens, acts, and delivers. The workers of Edo State will stand by you as you continue to transform our education sector and fulfil your promises,” he affirmed.