Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary bonus for civil servants across the state, a historic decision that makes him the first governor in Delta's history to grant such a benefit to public workers. The announcement was made on Tuesday, July 1, 2026, during the 2026 Public Service Week Dinner and Awards Night held in Asaba, the state capital, and was met with thunderous applause from civil servants and other guests in attendance.
The approval is part of the governor's broader commitment to workers' welfare under his administration's MORE Agenda, which prioritises reforms, resilience, and results. Oborevwori described the event as an opportunity to celebrate excellence, review the progress of the public service, and inspire greater productivity. He emphasised that meaningful reforms can only succeed when workers are properly motivated, equipped, and supported through policies that promote their welfare and professional growth.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori explained that the 13th-month salary bonus is being introduced to appreciate the dedication, commitment, and efforts of workers who have continued to contribute to the development and progress of Delta State through the public service. He said the payment is expected to improve the welfare of workers and encourage them to remain committed to their duties. "When I see any memo concerning the welfare of civil servants, I always approve it because I know the importance of having over 60,000 workers standing with this administration," the governor stated.
In addition to the 13th-month salary, Oborevwori approved over a 50 per cent increment in the salaries of the Head of Service and Permanent Secretaries, as well as a threefold increase in the cash prizes for outstanding public servants. He also announced that the Permanent Secretaries' Quarters have been completed and will soon be commissioned after the internal roads are tarred, while official vehicles for the 11 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries had already been procured. The governor assured workers that affordable housing remains a priority and that his administration would continue to pursue practical solutions and strategic partnerships to improve access to housing.
The State Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, commended Governor Oborevwori for his sustained support for the public service, noting that the administration's interventions had improved workers' morale and performance. She urged civil servants to embrace ongoing reforms, stressing that integrity, innovation, and dedication remain essential for a productive and efficient public service.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to outstanding civil servants. Mr. Abuga Dennis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources was named the Best Civil Servant Farmer, while Chinwe Atisele of the Hospitals Management Board and Mr. Reuben Udolu of the Ministry of Women Affairs received awards as the most punctual staff. The recipients were presented with cash prizes and plaques by the governor in recognition of their exemplary service.
Governor Oborevwori also used the occasion to address the Permanent Secretaries, describing them as the institutional memory of government. "You are the landlords in the system while commissioners are tenants. Commissioners come and go, but the public service remains. Protect the system and always do the right thing," he advised.
The approval of the 13th-month salary bonus has been widely celebrated by civil servants across Delta State, with many describing it as a well-deserved recognition of their hard work and dedication. The governor's decision is expected to boost morale and productivity across the state civil service, further solidifying his administration's pro-worker stance and commitment to the welfare of public servants.
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