Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has affirmed his commitment to enhancing the value and dignity of the civil service, ensuring a brighter future for its workers. Speaking at a prayer service held at the state secretariat complex in Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized the need to reposition the civil service for greater accountability and open the state to increased investment opportunities.
During the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa announced plans to settle all outstanding arrears owed to state workers, including the lingering 2017 salary backlog. He also urged public service employees to refrain from engaging in partisan politics and bitterness, especially in light of the upcoming 2024 governorship election.
Looking ahead, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed optimism about the prospects for the state in 2024, highlighting the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and integrity of the civil service. He assured workers of timely salary payments, promotions, settlement of outstanding arrears, continuous training, provision of necessary tools, and the creation of a conducive work environment.
The Head of Service, Mr. Kayode Ogundele, acknowledged the invaluable support of union leaders in advancing the government’s Renewed Hope agenda and pledged to prioritize the welfare of civil servants in the upcoming year.
Bishop Felix Adejumo, founder of the Agape Christian Ministries International, underscored the importance of leadership responsibility and urged everyone to pray for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s success in governance, emphasizing the need for a genuine commitment to repositioning the state for sustained growth and development.
Meanwhile, Mr. Sunday Adeleye, National Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, called on the Federal and State governments to reconsider their approach to mitigating the impact of subsidy in 2024. He stressed the urgency of implementing the new minimum wage and upholding the welfare of workers and citizens. Similarly, the State NLC Chairman, Victor Amoko, appealed to the state government to expedite the settlement of remaining salary arrears owed to civil servants.
The collective consensus from the prayer service reflects a shared aspiration for a more promising future for Ondo State’s civil service and a renewed dedication to fostering growth and prosperity in the region.
