Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged the newly sworn-in Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, to lead a renewed drive toward ethical reforms, professionalism, and transparency in the state civil service.
The Governor gave the charge on Thursday during the official swearing-in ceremony held at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori described the appointment of Dr. Oseji as well-deserved, noting her sterling qualities, dedication, and track record of excellence. He expressed confidence in her ability to lead the civil service with distinction, emphasizing that her appointment comes at a critical time when a disciplined and performance-driven public service is key to delivering on the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
“We believe she brings to this new office decades of exceptional stewardship, outstanding leadership, and an undiluted passion for excellence. Her strong work ethic, sincerity of purpose, and professionalism are indeed worthy of recognition,” the Governor stated.
Governor Oborevwori also used the occasion to express his deep appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service, Mr. Reginald Bayoko Kmenari, who retired after years of meritorious service. The Governor commended Bayoko for his guidance during the Nican reform and his commitment to civil service improvement.
“Working with him as Head of Service over the past 22 months has been both a joy and a privilege. His wisdom, dedication and memorable counsel — like the one he shared during our retreat — will always be remembered,” he said.
Addressing the civil service as the “major vehicle” for implementing government policies, the Governor reiterated the administration’s resolve to leave behind a legacy of a capable, accountable, and citizen-focused workforce. He highlighted the need for attitudinal change, greater commitment, and ethical conduct across the ranks.
“There will be a major improvement in service delivery when every government worker sees themselves as a representative of the government and accepts responsibility for its success or failure,” he said. “We must shift from the mindset of ‘I’m going to work’ to ‘I’m going to serve.’”
He also issued a firm reminder to civil servants nearing retirement to give way for younger professionals, stressing the importance of continuity and fresh energy in the service.
In her response, Dr. Oseji, a seasoned medical consultant and long-serving civil servant, described her swearing-in as a solemn and humbling moment. She expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for entrusting her with what she called a “divine assignment.”
“It is not just an elevation in my professional journey, it is a divine assignment to lead the entire Delta State Civil Service,” she said.
Dr. Oseji, who becomes the 12th Head of Service and only the second woman to occupy the position since 1991, pledged to key into the Governor’s vision of transparent governance. She announced plans to immediately orient civil servants on the Delta State Financial Regulations and spearhead digitization of the service database.
“This will enable us to promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,” she said.
Reflecting on her transition from a medical career spanning over 35 years to top-tier administrative leadership, Dr. Oseji noted that she was ready to build on the legacies of her predecessors.
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“I will be standing on the shoulders of 11 giants, from Mr. Jackson Adjogri to Mr. Reginald Bayoko, to contribute my quota toward sustaining a vibrant and professional civil service,” she added.
She also made mention of key reforms she undertook as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, including innovation-driven activities by Planning, Research, and Statistics Departments, which will now be replicated state-wide.
As the new Chair of the College of Permanent Secretaries, Dr. Oseji pledged to drive synergy, integrity, and discipline throughout the civil service, calling on all civil servants to uphold the principles of punctuality, meritocracy, and selfless service.
Dr. Oseji said: “By God’s grace, Your Excellency, you have my firm promise that I will not let you, nor the great people of Delta State, down.”
The event was graced by top government functionaries, including Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, the Chief Judge of Delta State Justice Tessy Diai, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, senior civil servants, and members of the press.
