Oborevwori Tasks New Head of Service on Fairness, Accountability and Workers’ Welfare
Delta Governor Reaffirms Commitment to Training, Improved Staff Welfare and Incentives for Civil Servants
By PINAIBA BOLOUERE FIRSTLADY
Reporter, GlobalEgberi Media International Ltd.
ASABA, DELTA STATE — Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged the newly appointed Head of Service (HOS), Mrs. Charity Babigha-Ehimen, to uphold fairness, humility, integrity and accountability in the administration of the state civil service.
The governor gave the charge on Thursday during the swearing-in ceremony of Babigha-Ehimen, urging her to deploy her wealth of experience to improve the performance of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) while promoting discipline, professionalism and efficient service delivery.
Congratulating the new Head of Service, Oborevwori recalled that she joined the Delta State Civil Service in 1993 and served in various capacities, rising through the ranks to become a director before her appointment as Permanent Secretary in 2019.
He expressed confidence that her experience would strengthen administrative coordination and improve service delivery across government institutions.
“I expect you to put that experience to good use in your new role,” the governor said, urging her to work closely with Permanent Secretaries and heads of agencies to promote discipline, accountability and prudent management of public resources.
Leadership Beyond Supervision
Oborevwori emphasised that leadership in the civil service must go beyond routine supervision. He stressed the importance of motivating workers, supporting their professional development and creating an environment where public servants can perform their duties effectively.
According to the governor, the new Head of Service must lead by example and encourage civil servants to serve the people with dedication, dignity and a strong sense of responsibility.
“Your responsibility is not just to supervise the service, but to help our people work better and serve the public with pride,” he said.
He also called on Permanent Secretaries, directors and heads of MDAs to cooperate fully with Babigha-Ehimen, noting that collective responsibility, effective communication and teamwork were essential to building a responsive and productive civil service.
Oborevwori Reaffirms Commitment to Workers’ Welfare
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of Delta State workers, highlighting regular salary payments, investment in capacity-building programmes and incentives designed to improve staff morale and productivity.
He explained that the 13th-month salary initiative was introduced to provide civil servants with a substantial financial benefit at the end of the year rather than relying on the traditional distribution of food items.
Oborevwori further disclosed that his administration had approved the construction of 12 additional duplexes for Permanent Secretaries as part of efforts to improve their welfare.
He also announced plans for a clubhouse for civil servants, stating that the contract for the project was expected to be awarded soon.
The governor maintained that investing in workers’ welfare, professional development and a supportive working environment remained important to improving productivity and strengthening public institutions.
Governor Commends Outgoing Head of Service
Oborevwori commended the immediate past Head of Service, Dr. Minimie Oseji, for her dedication and contributions to the state civil service.
He wished her a peaceful and fulfilling retirement, acknowledging her service to the government and people of Delta State.
The governor also urged civil servants to remain honest, diligent and committed to their responsibilities, irrespective of the prevailing political atmosphere.
With the 2027 general elections approaching, he appealed to political leaders and their supporters to shun intimidation and violence, stressing the importance of peace and responsible conduct.
New Head of Service Unveils Four-Point Strategic Action Plan
In her response, Babigha-Ehimen expressed appreciation to Governor Oborevwori for finding her worthy of the appointment and pledged to discharge her responsibilities with dedication, fairness and integrity.
She promised to work towards the effective implementation of the administration’s MORE Agenda, with a focus on improving administrative efficiency and service delivery across the state.
The new Head of Service unveiled a four-point strategic action plan designed to build a competent, digitally empowered, disciplined and productive civil service.
The plan focuses on:
- Human Capital Development and Digitalisation: Strengthening workers’ skills, embracing modern technology and improving administrative processes.
- Workers’ Welfare: Promoting staff well-being, motivation and a supportive working environment.
- Internal Collaboration: Improving communication and coordination across government institutions.
- Teamwork and Institutional Cooperation: Strengthening partnerships with Permanent Secretaries, directors and heads of departments to achieve common goals.
Babigha-Ehimen also acknowledged the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare, citing the 13th-month salary, capacity-building initiatives, pension and retirement benefits, and prompt payment of salaries.
A New Chapter for Delta’s Civil Service
The appointment of Babigha-Ehimen places renewed emphasis on administrative accountability, digital transformation, staff development and institutional cooperation within the Delta State Civil Service.
As she assumes office, the expectations outlined by the governor and the priorities contained in her four-point action plan will be central to efforts to improve productivity, strengthen public confidence and ensure that government services respond more effectively to the needs of Delta residents.
The key challenge will be translating these commitments into measurable improvements in workers’ welfare, administrative efficiency and public service delivery.
GlobalEgberi Media International Ltd.
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