Deputy Governor’s Office Rewards Accounts Officer, Doris Chika, as Best Staff of the Month
The Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State has inaugurated a monthly Staff Engagement and Recognition Programme aimed at promoting excellence, professionalism and improved productivity in the state civil service, with Mrs. Emmanuel Doris Chika of the Accounts Department emerging as the maiden recipient of the Best Staff of the Month Award for June 2026.
The initiative, introduced in line with the policy directives of the Head of Service of Abia State, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, is designed to strengthen communication between management and staff while rewarding exceptional performance across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).
Speaking during the award presentation at the Office of the Deputy Governor in Government House, Umuahia, the Director of Administration, Mr. Morgan Nwazue, said the programme provides a platform for regular interaction between management and employees to identify workplace challenges and improve service delivery.
He explained that the initiative goes beyond recognising outstanding staff, noting that it also enables management to receive valuable feedback that will help create a more conducive working environment for civil servants.
According to him, six staff members were nominated for the June assessment, with management evaluating their performances based on four key criteria: attendance, punctuality, adherence to the official dress code and individual contributions to their respective departments.
Mr. Nwazue said Mrs. Emmanuel Doris Chika of the Accounts Department distinguished herself by recording exceptional scores in all the assessment areas, particularly in punctuality and commitment to duty.
He commended the award recipient for maintaining an impressive attendance record despite commuting daily from Aba to Umuahia, describing her dedication as a shining example of discipline and professionalism.
He noted that while some workers often cite distance as a reason for lateness, Mrs. Doris had consistently demonstrated that commitment and proper planning could overcome such challenges.
The Director further attributed the ease of commuting to the improved road infrastructure and transportation system provided by the administration of Governor Alex Otti, which has enhanced movement across the state.
Mr. Nwazue disclosed that the recipient’s name would be forwarded to the Office of the Head of Service for official documentation, a development that could positively influence her future career advancement within the Abia State Civil Service.
He described the recognition programme as a motivational initiative intended to encourage civil servants to improve their attendance, punctuality, appearance and overall commitment to efficient service delivery.
Also speaking, the Director of Finance in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Pastor Smart Nmecha Udo, described the monthly award as a strategic initiative of the Head of Service to inspire greater dedication and accountability among workers.
He explained that attendance carried the highest weighting of 50 per cent because regular presence at work remains fundamental to effective public service.
According to him, punctuality, compliance with the approved dress code and quality of work performance also formed part of the selection process.
Pastor Udo urged staff members to embrace the initiative positively and strive to distinguish themselves through diligence, discipline and excellent service.
He noted that the recognition programme would not only motivate workers but also encourage them to develop their talents and contribute more meaningfully to the growth of the civil service and the development of Abia State.
Responding, Mrs. Emmanuel Doris Chika of the Accounts Department, expressed profound gratitude to God and the management of the Office of the Deputy Governor for finding her worthy of the honour.
She described the recognition as a great source of encouragement and pledged to remain committed to excellence, professionalism and selfless service.
Mrs. Doris dedicated the award to her colleagues, stating that it would inspire her to work even harder in the discharge of her responsibilities.
She encouraged fellow civil servants to remain committed, punctual and hardworking, expressing confidence that consistent dedication to duty would earn them similar recognition in future.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Best Staff of the Month Award and a certificate of excellence to Mrs. Emmanuel Doris Chika of the Accounts Department by the management of the Office of the Deputy Governor, amid applause from staff members who described the initiative as a significant step towards fostering a culture of excellence, accountability and productivity in the Abia State Civil Service.
