The Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, has assured civil servants that the ongoing reforms in the Public Service are not aimed at victimising, witch-hunting or punishing workers. Rather, he said the reforms are designed to strengthen the capacity of workers, improve institutional performance and promote professional development.
Ojeikere gave the assurance in Umuahia during a mentorship session with public servants. He urged workers to see the reforms as an opportunity to improve themselves, develop new skills, embrace innovation and advance their careers.
He charged civil servants to demonstrate hard work, commitment, discipline and sacrifice in carrying out their official duties. According to him, these qualities are necessary for building a more efficient, productive and responsive Public Service that can meet the needs of the people.
The Head of Service also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to recognising and rewarding excellence and innovation among workers. He described both qualities as important to increasing productivity and improving the quality of service delivered to the public.
Ojeikere advised civil servants to avoid idleness and remain fully committed to their assigned responsibilities. He also encouraged them to make continuous learning a priority by acquiring new knowledge, skills and professional competencies.
He further cautioned supervisors against protecting or covering up for officers who fail to perform their duties properly. He explained that shielding erring workers could weaken accountability and prevent such officers from identifying their weaknesses and taking steps to improve.
The Head of Service also encouraged workers to willingly accept challenging assignments and responsibilities. He said exposure to new tasks would help civil servants gain more experience, develop their abilities and prepare themselves for greater responsibilities in the future.
He urged public servants to approach the ongoing reforms with a positive mindset and see them as part of efforts to build a stronger and more effective Public Service.
