By Amgbare Prince, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has called on civil servants, particularly permanent secretaries, to collaborate with the government to ensure the effective implementation of policies and programmes for the state’s development.
The deputy governor made this appeal on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Bayelsa State Permanent Secretaries Forum, led by its Chairman, Dr. Wisdom Sawyer, at Government House, Yenagoa.
In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, Senator Ewhrudjakpo emphasized the pivotal role permanent secretaries’ play in driving government success through a functional civil service.
He encouraged them to foster harmonious relationships with commissioners to improve productivity and efficiency.
While congratulating the recently appointed permanent secretaries, the Deputy Governor urged them to remain diligent, maintain decorum, and avoid unethical practices that could tarnish the government’s image.
“You are partial representatives of the government, and your actions, whether official or unofficial, impact its reputation,” he remarked.
Addressing the forum’s concerns, Senator Ewhrudjakpo pledged to discuss their requests with the governor, including the completion of access roads to allocated lands in Agbura and the provision of official vehicles.
He also proposed exploring an owner-occupier housing model for permanent secretaries, similar to that used for commissioners and legislators.
Dr. Wisdom Sawyer, Chairman of the Permanent Secretaries Forum, commended the state government for its continued support, including the periodic appointment of permanent secretaries, retreats for senior officials, and financial benefits such as wage awards.
He expressed optimism about the implementation of the consequential adjustment to the national minimum wage and urged the government to address other pressing needs, including road construction and the provision of official cars.
The deputy governor reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and strengthening the collaboration needed for effective governance.
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