A’Ibom govt tasks workers on commitment, improved productivity
Akpan Umoh, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom Government has urged all public servants in the state to ensure commitment to duty and improved productivity in service delivery to enhance the public service sector.
Mr Effiong Essien, Head of Civil Service in Akwa Ibom said this during a media briefing marking the 2024 Public Service Week in Uyo on Wednesday.
Essien said that public service is the engine room of government in formulating and implementing policies and programmes for the benefit of the people.
He said that June 23 every year is observed as the United Nations Public Service Day to celebrate people working in public service for their contributions to the development of society.
Our correspondent reports that the theme of the 2024 Public Service Week is, “Stay Forward Looking Make a Difference”.
He said that this year’s celebration is 10 years after it was observed in the state by the state civil servants.
“Public Service encompasses all Government’s Ministries, Departments and Agencies as well as Parastatals and Government Owned Companies.
“Workers in these MDAs and others formulate and ensure the implementation of Government’s policies for growth of nations and betterment of mankind.
“Public Service bastion upon which government rests”, Essien said.
Essien added that the Akwa Ibom Government was ready to pay the minimum wage as soon as negotiation was completed by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Federal Government.
The head of the civil service added that Gov. Umo Eno had released over N18 billion for settlement of outstanding pensions, gratuities and leave grants in the last year.
He said that the government has procured 150 housing units to be distributed free to workers from grade levels 01 to 08 to enhance their welfare.
“The Akwa Ibom State public servants have reasons to thank God, as the governor has prioritised the welfare of workers, serving and retired with very pragmatic approaches.
“There is an increment in pension to cushion the effect of the harsh economic situation on pensioners in the state”, he said.
Essien enumerated the activities lined up for the 2024 public service week to include; a novelty football match, public lecture, road walk to keep civil servants fit and thanksgiving service.
