Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged newly sworn-in Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service to uphold professionalism, integrity, and accountability, while warning them against colluding with politicians to engage in corrupt practices.
The governor gave the charge on Wednesday during the swearing-in of 11 Permanent Secretaries at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, where he stressed that their appointments were based strictly on merit, seniority, professionalism, and proven records of service.
Key Highlights:
- Sheriff Oborevwori urged new Permanent Secretaries to uphold integrity and professionalism.
- He warned them against corruption and unlawful political influence.
- The appointments were based on merit and statewide representation.
- Permanent Secretaries were told to ensure accountability and proper governance.
- A new policy now requires future Heads of Service to gain experience in the Office of the Head of Service before appointment.
Oborevwori explained that the appointments were made to fill existing vacancies and were drawn from a pool of competent officers across the state, noting that every local government area in Delta State is now represented at the level of Permanent Secretary. He said the move underscores his administration’s commitment to inclusiveness, fairness, and balanced representation in public service.
According to him, the exercise aligns with Section 208(4) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which mandates that such appointments reflect the diversity of the state and promote a sense of belonging among the people.
The governor assured that more qualified officers would be elevated as vacancies arise, maintaining that competence, ethical conduct, integrity, and professionalism would remain the guiding criteria. He also disclosed that his administration recently approved the promotion of several deserving civil servants as part of ongoing efforts to boost morale, strengthen welfare, and enhance career progression within the service.
Describing their elevation as a reward for years of dedication, perseverance, and hard work, Oborevwori cautioned the new Permanent Secretaries against complacency, stressing that their new roles come with increased responsibility and expectations.
“The reward for hard work is more work,” he said, urging them to remain disciplined, dynamic, and committed to efficient service delivery.
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He reminded them that as accounting officers in their respective ministries, they would be held directly responsible for any lapses, urging them to provide sound professional advice and institutional guidance to commissioners to ensure effective policy implementation.
In a strong warning against corruption, the governor advised the officials not to allow themselves to be misled by political office holders into taking decisions that could implicate them.
“The Commissioner is the chief executive officer of that ministry. Work with the Commissioner and advise them accordingly. Don’t let them deceive you into something that is not right,” he said.
“The politician may leave office and travel abroad, but you remain in the system. When issues arise, you will be held accountable. Do not sign documents that will put you into trouble—let those giving the directives take responsibility,” he added.
Oborevwori further reaffirmed the central role of the civil service as the engine room of government, emphasizing that effective governance depends largely on the competence and integrity of its workforce.
He also announced a new policy requiring that any officer to be appointed as Head of Service must have spent a minimum of six months in the Office of the Head of Service as a Permanent Secretary, explaining that the measure is aimed at deepening administrative knowledge and improving leadership capacity within the system.
The newly sworn-in Permanent Secretaries are Dr. Yinkore Paul, Dr. Okwunze Chukwuemeka, Amadubogha Peters, Nkenchor Onyeisi, Akambe Henry, Engr. Aghagba Solomon, Ogbugo Victor Chike, Ighoyota Rocky, Itawansa Augustine, Onobraekpeyan Edwin, and Nkemachor Lucky.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Dr. Yinkore expressed appreciation to the governor for the confidence reposed in them and pledged their collective commitment to supporting the administration’s development agenda and delivering quality service to the people of Delta State.
