From Staff Writer
The Edo State Government has officially onboarded more than 800 newly recruited cleaners into the State’s Civil and Public Service during a one-day orientation programme held at the Government House, Benin City.
The recruits, who are now placed on Salary Grade Level One, were welcomed into the service with a comprehensive induction designed to familiarise them with public service expectations, regulations, and professional standards.
Addressing the recruits, the Edo State Head of Service (HoS), Dr Anthony Okungbowa, Esq., lauded Governor Sen. Monday Okpebholo for his steadfast commitment to public sector reform, job creation, and staff welfare. He highlighted the administration’s ongoing efforts to restore dignity and discipline within the civil service.
Dr Okungbowa said, “The Governor is deeply concerned about the wellbeing of workers. He considers it unacceptable for any government staff to earn as little as ₦15,000 or ₦20,000. Under his administration, no cleaner in Edo State earns less than ₦75,000. This reflects a deliberate policy to professionalise the service and ensure every role is respected.”
He urged the new employees to approach their responsibilities with integrity, punctuality, and a strong sense of pride. “Wherever you are posted, show gratitude to the Governor through hard work and commitment. Lateness and absenteeism will not be condoned. We are building a disciplined service and must all do our part.”
The programme featured presentations from veteran administrators and experts in public service, including Mr George Igberaese, a retired permanent secretary, who spoke on service standards and workplace expectations; Mr Washington Abbe Osaro, Permanent Secretary of the Pensions Bureau, who provided insights into the State Contributory Pension Scheme; and Dr (Mrs) Joy Iyen Akhigbe of the Directorate of Corporate Change, who addressed topics on personal development, ethics, and professional appearance.
Mrs Deborah Enakhimion, a retired permanent secretary from the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, delivered a lecture titled Overview of Civil Service Rules, Regulations, Policies and Practices, where she stressed the importance of punctuality, modesty, confidentiality, and ethical behaviour. She reminded the new staff of their essential role as the first line of service each working day.
The recruits were also sensitised on the benefits of the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme, designed to reduce the financial burden of healthcare for public servants.
In her closing remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Directorate of Human Resource Management, Mrs B. J. Igbinobaro, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for approving the onboarding exercise. She congratulated the new employees and emphasised that ignorance of rules would not be tolerated.
“Knowledge is essential. You now understand the expectations of your role. Take your duties seriously. Those who are diligent in small tasks will be entrusted with more responsibilities,” she advised.
Speaking on behalf of the new recruits, Maureen Ojiegbe, who has been posted to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, expressed appreciation to the Governor and pledged the loyalty and dedication of the newly engaged staff. “We are grateful for this opportunity and will uphold the values of the Service, ensuring a clean and orderly environment,” she said.
The event was graced by top government officials, including Barr. Mrs Priscilla Aziegbemhin, Permanent Secretary, General Services, Office of the Head of Service; and Mrs Kate Nosa, Director of Training and Manpower Development, among others.
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