The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Delta State Council, has called on Sheriff Oborevwori to appoint substantive Permanent Secretaries, warning that prolonged reliance on acting officials is creating uncertainty within the state civil service.
In a statement signed by Chairman Churchill Oyowe and Acting Secretary Josephine Omodior, the union acknowledged that the power to appoint Permanent Secretaries rests with the governor, but stressed that such appointments remain vital to the stability and efficiency of the public service in Delta State.
The council noted that many Ministries, Departments and Agencies are currently being managed by officials in acting capacities, a situation that has persisted since the beginning of the present administration. It expressed concern that several senior officers have served in acting roles and exited without confirmation, while others continue under similar conditions, creating uncertainty at the top level of the service.
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According to the union, appointing substantive Permanent Secretaries would strengthen administrative stability, preserve institutional memory, and enhance accountability in policy implementation. It added that such appointments would provide clear leadership across MDAs and improve morale among senior civil servants by recognising merit and years of service.
The NUJ further argued that ending prolonged acting appointments would ensure continuity in governance and reinforce professionalism within the Delta State Civil Service, which it described as one of the most respected in the country.
While making its appeal, the council commended the Oborevwori administration for improvements in workers’ welfare, including the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, payment of promotion arrears, and regular salary disbursement. It also praised palliative measures introduced to cushion the effects of subsidy removal, as well as enhanced loan schemes and provision of official vehicles for senior officers.
The union expressed confidence that the governor would give due consideration to its request, noting that timely appointments would consolidate ongoing reforms and strengthen governance structures across the state.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the union’s support for policies that promote efficiency, professionalism, and good governance in Delta State.
