The Delta State Executive Council has approved the institutionalisation of a 13th-month salary for civil servants, making it a permanent statutory benefit subject to legislative approval.

The council also approved the recruitment of additional secondary school teachers and the equipping of technical colleges to strengthen education and workers’ welfare across the state.

The state Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Charles Aniagwu, disclosed the decision on Friday after the council meeting chaired by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in Asaba.

Mr Aniagwu said the council approved a memo presented by the governor to make payment of the 13th-month salary a permanent legal entitlement for civil servants.

He said an executive bill would be transmitted to the Delta State House of Assembly to provide legislative backing for the landmark welfare initiative.

According to him, the proposed law will ensure the payment no longer depended on the discretion of any administration but became a guaranteed workers’ right.

“Once the bill is passed into law, workers in the state will continue to enjoy the benefit beyond the tenure of the present administration,” Mr Aniagwu said.

He said the council also examined the shortage of teachers, particularly in science subjects, and expressed concern over its effect on educational standards.

Mr Aniagwu said the ministry of secondary education had been directed to prepare a memo specifying the number of teachers required for immediate recruitment.

He said the council in principle approved the employment of additional teachers to bridge manpower shortages in public secondary schools across the state.

The commissioner said the council approved the procurement and installation of equipment for the Technical College in Oghareki, Ethiope West Local Government Area.

He added that approval was also granted to equip the Technical College in Irri after the completion of ongoing construction works.

According to Mr Aniagwu, the approvals demonstrated the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to revitalising technical education and promoting practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.

He said the council also approved several matters concerning the health and transport sectors, including the creation of new transport routes across the state.

Mr Aniagwu further confirmed the approval of the appointment of Dr Goodnews Goodman Agbi, Athuaro I, as the Ovie of Oyede Kingdom in the Isoko North Local Government Area.

“The decisions reflect our administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, expanding quality education, strengthening healthcare delivery and enhancing public services across Delta,” he said. (NAN)