The Delta State Executive Council (EXCO) has approved the permanent payment of the 13th-month salary for civil servants, alongside plans to recruit more teachers for public secondary schools and upgrade technical colleges across the state.
The landmark decisions were reached on Friday during the Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, quality education and improved public service delivery.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, said the council approved a proposal by the governor to institutionalise the 13th-month salary as a statutory entitlement for workers in the state.
He disclosed that an executive bill would soon be transmitted to the State House of Assembly to provide legal backing for the policy, ensuring that future administrations cannot discontinue the annual benefit.
According to Aniagwu, once the bill becomes law, every eligible civil servant in Delta State will continue to receive the 13th-month salary regardless of any change in government.
The council also addressed the shortage of teachers in public secondary schools, especially in science-related subjects, which has affected effective teaching and learning in many schools.
To bridge the gap, EXCO directed the Ministry of Secondary Education to submit the number of teachers required for immediate recruitment, while granting approval in principle for the employment of additional qualified teachers.
In a move to strengthen technical and vocational education, the council approved the procurement and installation of modern equipment for the Technical College in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area.
It also gave approval for the Technical College in Irri to be fully equipped upon completion.
Aniagwu said the investments were designed to provide students with practical skills that will enhance employment opportunities and promote entrepreneurship across the state.
The Executive Council further considered and approved key initiatives in the health and transport sectors, including the introduction of new transport routes to improve connectivity and ease movement across Delta.
In addition, EXCO approved the appointment of HRM Goodnews Goodman Agbi, PhD, Athuaro I, as the new Ovie of Oyede Kingdom in Isoko North Local Government Area.
Aniagwu noted that the approvals demonstrate Governor Oborevwori’s resolve to improve the welfare of workers, strengthen the education sector, enhance healthcare services and deliver policies that would positively impact the lives of Deltans.
