Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has assured public servants that his administration will take necessary steps to prevent delays in promotion exercises. This commitment was made during the 2024 Public Service Week Symposium, held at the Oba’s Complex, Governor’s Office in Abeokuta, under the theme “Building a Socially Responsive Public Service in the 21st Century: The Place of Ethics and Values.”
Governor Abiodun emphasized that the state government is fully aware of the backlog in promotions and is determined to resolve the issue promptly. He reassured public servants that the state will not allow any further delays in recognizing their hard work and contributions through timely promotions.
Speaking on the significance of ethics and values, Governor Abiodun highlighted their role as the foundation of a credible public service. He called on civil servants to continue adhering to these principles, which are crucial for maintaining the trust and credibility of the public service in Ogun State.
“We understand that some of you have been awaiting your promotions since 2023 and 2024,” Governor Abiodun remarked. “I assure you that mechanisms are being put in place, in collaboration with the office of the Head of Service, to ensure that there are no further delays in the promotion process.”
The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to the welfare of public servants, stressing that the careers of Ogun State’s workforce will not be neglected. He recognized the vital role that public servants play in the state’s progress and assured them that their contributions will be appropriately rewarded.
In line with improving career progression within the state’s public service, Governor Abiodun announced the domestication of several resolutions from the National Council of Establishment. These resolutions will be implemented to enhance entry qualifications and career advancements, providing public servants with better opportunities for growth.
Governor Abiodun also introduced a new health insurance initiative designed to further support public servants. The initiative includes a 50% subsidy on health insurance premiums, reducing the cost for public servants to just N500 per month. This subsidy reflects the administration’s dedication to ensuring the well-being of its employees.
“Our decision to subsidize the health insurance premium by 50% underscores our commitment to the welfare of our public servants,” the Governor explained. “While other beneficiaries pay N1,000 monthly, Ogun State public servants will only need to pay N500.”
Governor Abiodun pointed out that the effectiveness of a socially responsible public service lies in its ability to understand and address the needs of the people. He noted that his administration has been consistently committed to capacity building and human capital development within the state’s public service.
Over the past five years, Ogun State has invested heavily in the professional development of its public servants. The government has sponsored attendance at professional conferences and seminars both domestically and internationally, equipping civil servants with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their roles.
The Governor praised the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, for his unwavering support in advancing the administration’s “#Building the Future Together” agenda. He acknowledged Mr. Onasanya’s role as a key ally in driving the state’s public service reforms forward.
In his address at the symposium, Mr. Onasanya expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for his continuous support of public servants. He specifically thanked the Governor for the 50% health insurance subsidy, which he described as a significant step in improving the welfare of the state’s workforce.
Representing other former Heads of Service, Abayomi Sobande urged public servants to remain supportive of the current administration. He emphasized that the success of government initiatives is dependent on the active engagement and support of the public service.
Comrade Isa Olude, the state chairman of the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), also praised the Governor for his consistent attention to the needs of public servants. He highlighted the prompt payment of allowances and salaries, as well as the new health insurance subsidy, as examples of the administration’s commitment to its workforce.
Comrade Olude assured Governor Abiodun that public servants would continue to stand by his administration, offering their full support to ensure the successful implementation of its policies. He noted that the Governor’s efforts have been greatly appreciated and that the public service is committed to his vision for Ogun State’s development.